Fairleigh Dickinson University

What you'll study

The programme combines core accounting theory with practical applications to prepare students for public accounting, corporate finance and regulatory roles. Typical topics include financial accounting and reporting, managerial accounting, advanced auditing, taxation of individuals and business entities, accounting information systems, and ethics and professional responsibility. Students also study research methods or a business communications module to build analytical and presentation skills.

Most students complete a sequence of core courses and choose electives that reflect their career focus, such as forensic accounting, tax planning, government and non-profit accounting, or advanced financial statement analysis. The programme commonly culminates in a capstone project, practicum or internship that applies classroom learning to real-world client or organisational problems.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a recognised bachelor’s degree. Those with an undergraduate degree in accounting or a related business discipline are directly eligible; applicants from other academic backgrounds may be admitted conditionally and required to complete prerequisite coursework in foundational accounting subjects (for example, introductory financial accounting, managerial accounting, and intermediate accounting).

Typical admissions materials include:

• Official transcripts from all post‑secondary institutions attended.
• Curriculum vitae or résumé outlining academic and professional experience.
• Personal statement describing goals and fit with the programme.
• Letters of recommendation (usually one or two) from academic or professional referees.

International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements with an accepted test such as TOEFL or IELTS unless exempt. Professional experience can strengthen an application but is not always required. Specific prerequisite course requirements and acceptable equivalents are determined during admissions review.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue careers in public accounting firms, corporate finance departments, government agencies and non-profit organisations. Common roles include:

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) candidates who sit for professional examinations after meeting educational requirements.
• External and internal auditors conducting financial statement audits, compliance reviews and internal control assessments.
• Tax professionals providing compliance and planning services for individuals and corporations.
• Management accountants and financial analysts supporting budgeting, forecasting and strategic decision-making.
• Forensic accountants and compliance specialists focusing on investigations, fraud prevention and regulatory reporting.

The programme’s coursework and internship opportunities are intended to help graduates meet the academic requirements for professional certifications and to build the technical and soft skills employers seek.

Why study at Fairleigh Dickinson University

Fairleigh Dickinson offers a student-centred environment with access to faculty who have practical accounting and industry experience. Its campuses in northern New Jersey provide proximity to a dense professional market, offering students chances to secure internships and network with firms in New York City and the surrounding region.

The university supports career development through dedicated services, workshops and connections with alumni working in accounting and finance. Flexible scheduling options, including evening courses and experiential learning components, make the programme accessible to recent graduates and working professionals seeking to advance toward certification or change career direction.