University of Tennessee

What you'll study

The programme combines core business foundation courses with a comprehensive sequence of accounting subjects. Early years focus on foundational subjects such as financial accounting, managerial accounting, microeconomics, macroeconomics, business statistics and introductory finance. Upper-level coursework typically covers advanced financial reporting, auditing and assurance services, federal taxation, cost and managerial analysis, accounting information systems, and professional ethics.

Students also encounter applied and contemporary topics including data analytics for accounting, financial statement analysis, forensic accounting and regulatory issues. Coursework is complemented by a capstone or senior project that integrates technical skills with communication and professional judgement. Electives and business law, information systems and management courses allow students to tailor the degree to interests such as taxation, audit, corporate accounting or consulting.

Instructional approaches emphasise experiential learning: case studies, group projects, accounting labs, software applications (for example spreadsheet modelling and accounting systems) and opportunities for internships with public accounting firms, corporations and government agencies.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent with a strong academic record. Typical preparation includes college-preparatory mathematics (algebra and precalculus), English and coursework demonstrating quantitative ability. Admissions decisions consider secondary school grades, the strength of the overall curriculum, and supporting documents such as a transcript and letters of recommendation.

For applicants who have taken standardised tests, those results may be considered where submitted; check the university admissions pages for the current testing policy. International applicants must meet English language proficiency and credential evaluation requirements. Students transferring from other institutions should provide college transcripts and meet any prerequisite requirements for intermediate accounting and business courses.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of careers in public accounting (audit and tax), corporate accounting and finance, internal audit, government accounting, nonprofit financial management and advisory services. Many graduates pursue professional certification such as the CPA, CMA or other credentials; the curriculum is commonly structured to support the credit requirements needed for licensure paths.

Typical entry roles include staff accountant, audit associate, tax associate, financial analyst and internal auditor. With experience, alumni progress to senior accounting roles, tax specialists, audit managers, financial controllers, chief financial officers or advisory and consulting positions. The degree also provides a strong foundation for graduate study such as a Master of Accountancy, MBA or specialised master's programmes.

Why study at University of Tennessee

The University of Tennessee offers accounting education through a well-established business school with connections to regional and national employers. Students benefit from experiential learning opportunities, internship pipelines with public accounting firms and corporate partners, and dedicated career services that support recruiting and professional development.

On-campus resources include accounting and finance labs, student chapters of professional organisations (for example societies that support accounting students), mentoring from alumni and access to faculty who combine academic research with practical experience. The university’s location and alumni network also provide regional industry links and networking opportunities that help students transition into professional roles.