University of North Dakota

What you'll study

This programme builds a foundation in core business disciplines before moving into specialised accounting subjects. Typical first-year work covers principles of financial accounting, microeconomics, macroeconomics, business statistics and introductory finance and management. In later years you study intermediate and advanced topics such as:

• Financial Accounting: reporting standards, preparation and analysis of financial statements
• Managerial and Cost Accounting: costing systems, budgeting, performance measurement and decision support
• Auditing: audit processes, internal controls and assurance services
• Taxation: federal income tax concepts for individuals and businesses and tax planning basics
• Accounting Information Systems: IT for accounting, database concepts and controls, and use of accounting software
• Business Law and Ethics: legal environment of business and ethical responsibilities of accountants
• Capstone/Advanced Seminars: integrated casework, financial statement analysis and professional issues

Students can also complete elective modules in areas such as forensic accounting, international accounting, and financial analysis. Practical elements commonly include an internship or practicum with local employers, project-based coursework and optional participation in student organisations and competitions.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Typical requirements include a solid record in mathematics (algebra, and preferably precalculus or calculus) and coursework in English. Admissions consider overall academic profile, recommended college-preparatory curriculum and strength of senior-year subjects.

• Recommended subject background: algebra and statistics, and coursework that demonstrates quantitative ability
• GPA and preparation: competitive applicants usually present a strong high-school GPA and evidence of readiness for college-level work
• Transfer students: credit may be awarded for prior college coursework; transfer applicants should provide transcripts from previous institutions
• International students: must meet English language proficiency requirements through recognised tests or university-approved alternatives

Some students begin the programme with the intention of meeting the educational requirements for professional certifications (for example the CPA) and may plan additional coursework to reach the credit hours required for licensure.

Career prospects

Graduates follow a range of careers across accounting and finance. Common entry roles include:

• Staff accountant or auditor in public accounting firms
• Financial analyst, corporate accountant or controller roles in business and industry
• Internal auditor and compliance positions in larger organisations
• Tax preparer and tax specialist positions in firms and for government
• Finance and accounting roles in not-for-profit and governmental agencies

Many graduates pursue professional qualifications such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Management Accountant (CMA), or continue to postgraduate study in accounting, taxation or business administration. The programme’s practical components and internship opportunities help students develop workplace-ready skills valued by employers.

Why study at University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers accounting students small-class teaching, access to faculty with a mix of academic and professional experience, and close links to regional employers, which supports internship and employment pathways. The campus provides resources such as career services, accounting-related student organisations and experiential learning opportunities that connect classroom theory to real-world practice.

Located in Grand Forks, the university’s business programmes give students exposure to a mix of local, regional and national employers, while the curriculum is designed to allow students to plan a path toward recognised professional credentials or further study.