Mercy College

What you'll study

The General Accounting degree combines core business knowledge with a comprehensive set of accounting subjects. In the early years you study introductory courses in financial accounting, managerial accounting, microeconomics, business law and quantitative methods. Later-year modules typically cover intermediate and advanced financial accounting, cost and management accounting, taxation, auditing principles, accounting information systems and ethics.

The programme also emphasises practical skills: students work with accounting software, spreadsheets and databases, learn financial statement analysis and develop reporting and presentation skills. Many students can choose electives such as governmental and not-for-profit accounting, forensic accounting, corporate finance, or business analytics to tailor their degree toward their career interests.

Teaching is usually a mix of lectures, seminars, workshops and lab sessions, with case studies and problem sets that reflect real-world accounting practice. Assessment methods include exams, written assignments, group projects and practical coursework.

Entry requirements

Typical entry requires a high school diploma or recognised secondary school qualification. Applicants are normally expected to have passed mathematics at a good level; A-levels, IB or equivalent qualifications in mathematics or economics are helpful. For US applicants, a competitive high-school GPA is usually required; standardised tests (SAT/ACT) may be optional or considered where provided.

International applicants must provide equivalent qualifications and proof of English language proficiency if English is not their first language. Mature applicants or those with relevant work experience may be considered through alternative entry routes. The Admissions Office can advise on specific academic equivalencies and supporting documents.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a broad range of entry-level accounting and finance roles, including staff accountant, accounts payable/accounts receivable clerk, tax preparer, payroll specialist, junior internal auditor and financial analyst. Many alumni progress to roles in public accounting firms, corporate accounting departments, government agencies and not-for-profit organisations.

The degree also lays the groundwork for professional qualifications such as the CPA (or local equivalents), CIMA or ACCA, depending on the jurisdiction, and for postgraduate study in accounting, finance or business. Mercy College’s career services and internship links help students gain workplace experience and industry contacts that support transition into employment.

Why study at Mercy College

Mercy College offers small class sizes and a practical, career-focused business education with accessible faculty who have both academic and professional experience. Students benefit from multiple campus locations and local business connections that create internship and networking opportunities.

The college places emphasis on student support services, including career counselling, internship placement and skills workshops that help accounting students prepare for professional certification and employment. The programme’s balance of technical training and applied learning makes it suitable for students who want to enter the accounting profession or continue to specialised postgraduate study.