Accounting graduates earn a median $47,260 Across 1,195 US programmes, two years after finishing
See the degree grade →The Bachelor’s in Accounting and Related Services at CUNY provides a comprehensive foundation in financial reporting, taxation, auditing and accounting information systems. It suits students aiming for professional accounting qualifications, roles in corporate finance, public accounting or government and non-profit financial management in the New York metropolitan area and beyond.
This undergraduate programme combines core accounting principles with applied skills in financial analysis, tax, auditing and information systems. The curriculum typically covers: financial accounting and reporting; managerial and cost accounting; federal taxation; assurance and auditing; accounting information systems; business law and ethics; and intermediate and advanced financial topics.
Students will also study supporting subjects such as economics, statistics, finance, and spreadsheet/database skills to prepare for data-driven decision making. Many degree structures include a capstone or practicum that integrates accounting knowledge through a research project, case studies or work-based learning.
The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, small-group tutorials, lab sessions for software practice, and experiential components such as internships or co‑op placements. Opportunities exist to take electives across CUNY colleges, participate in student accounting societies and pursue study abroad or exchange options where available.
Admission to the bachelor’s degree is based on secondary school completion (e.g., high school diploma or equivalent) and meeting CUNY’s undergraduate admissions standards. Typical preparation includes coursework in mathematics (including algebra), English and preferably introductory economics or accounting.
Applicants from community colleges or other universities may be considered for transfer credit; successful applicants will normally present a record of college-level coursework in quantitative subjects. International applicants must satisfy CUNY’s English-language proficiency requirements. Competitive applicants often demonstrate strong analytical skills and relevant summer work, volunteering or extracurricular involvement.
Graduates enter a wide range of roles: public accounting (audit and tax), corporate accounting and financial reporting, management accounting, budgeting and forecasting, forensic accounting, internal audit and compliance, and financial analysis. The degree also prepares students to pursue professional certifications such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) licence, Certified Management Accountant (CMA), or other industry credentials; additional credit hours or postgraduate study may be required for some licences.
Given CUNY’s location, students often find internships and employment with regional public accounting firms, multinational corporations, financial services firms, government agencies and not-for-profit organisations. Career services and college-based advising support job placement, networking and preparation for professional examinations.
CUNY provides access to a diverse student body and a network of colleges located across the New York metropolitan area, offering strong links to the city’s accounting, finance and public-sector employers. The university emphasises applied learning, with opportunities for internships, mentoring from faculty who have professional accounting experience, and partnerships with local firms.
Students benefit from CUNY’s career centres, alumni networks and proximity to major financial centres, which can enhance internship and placement prospects. Additionally, many CUNY colleges provide flexible scheduling, part-time study options and transfer pathways from community colleges for students seeking an affordable route to a bachelor’s degree in accounting.
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