Santa Clara University

What you'll study

This degree combines core accounting topics with supporting business and analytical subjects. Core modules typically include Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, Intermediate Accounting, Auditing, Federal Taxation, and Accounting Information Systems. Students also study business fundamentals such as Financial Management, Corporate Finance, Business Law, and Management, plus quantitative and analytical courses like Statistics, Data Analytics for Accounting, and Excel-based modelling.

The programme emphasises ethical decision-making and professional standards, with coursework or modules covering accounting ethics and regulatory environments. Many students complete a capstone project or practicum that integrates accounting knowledge with real-world problems, and opportunities for internships with public accounting firms, corporations and technology companies are an important element of the curriculum.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Typical admissions criteria include a strong record in mathematics and English, evidence of academic preparation in quantitative subjects, and a competitive overall academic profile. Santa Clara considers the full application portfolio, so personal statements, recommendation letters and extracurricular achievements are relevant. Standardised tests may be optional depending on current university policy; applicants should consult the university admissions office for up-to-date guidance.

Transfer applicants must provide college transcripts and will usually be required to have completed introductory coursework in accounting and quantitative subjects. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency and provide credential evaluations if required.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of roles across public accounting, industry and the public sector. Common entry-level positions include staff accountant, audit associate, tax associate, and financial analyst. With experience, graduates progress to roles such as senior accountant, audit manager, tax manager, internal auditor, controller and finance manager. The degree also provides a foundation for careers in consulting, forensic accounting, compliance, and advisory services.

Students who wish to pursue professional licensure—such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA)—will find the programme provides core preparation for exam content; licensure typically requires meeting specific educational and experience requirements set by state boards, so students should plan their coursework in consultation with advisors. Santa Clara’s location in Silicon Valley additionally offers strong internship and employment pipelines into technology firms, startups and venture-backed companies seeking accounting and finance professionals with data and systems skills.

Why study at Santa Clara University

• Practical, experiential learning: Small class sizes, case studies and practicum opportunities help translate theory into workplace skills.
• Leavey School of Business: The accounting programme benefits from faculty with professional experience and connections to regional employers.
• Strong industry links: Proximity to Bay Area accounting firms, corporate headquarters and tech companies creates plentiful internship and recruiting opportunities.
• Ethical and leadership focus: Jesuit educational values emphasise ethics, social responsibility and reflective leadership—important qualities in the accounting profession.
• Career support: Dedicated career services, employer events and alumni networks assist students in securing internships and full-time roles in accounting and finance.