Central Washington University

What you'll study

The programme builds from foundational courses in financial and managerial accounting to more advanced topics that emphasise analysis, professional standards and real-world application. You will complete a mix of general education and business core requirements alongside specialised accounting coursework.

• Core accounting topics: introductory financial accounting, intermediate and advanced financial accounting, managerial and cost accounting
• Tax and audit: federal income taxation (individuals and business), auditing principles and practice, audit report preparation and professional ethics
• Systems and analytics: accounting information systems, spreadsheet modelling, data analytics for accounting, use of industry-standard software
• Related business subjects: business law, finance, management, economics and business communication
• Specialist and applied options: government and nonprofit accounting, forensic accounting, international accounting, and advanced topics or elective seminars
• Practical experience: internship or practicum placements with regional employers, case projects, and a capstone course that integrates technical skills with professional judgement

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high-school diploma or equivalent. Admissions consider secondary-school performance, transcripts and any submitted standardised-test results where applicable; some applicants may be asked to demonstrate readiness in mathematics and written communication. Transfer students are evaluated on college-level coursework; prior business or accounting classes may be accepted toward major requirements.

International applicants must meet English language proficiency standards and submit official academic records. Specific programme advising is available to help students plan the sequence of required courses and any additional credit needed to meet professional exam eligibility in their jurisdiction.

Career prospects

Graduates commonly enter public accounting firms, corporate accounting and finance departments, government agencies and not-for-profit organisations. Typical roles include staff accountant, tax associate, internal auditor, management accountant, financial analyst and compliance specialist. The curriculum also prepares students to pursue professional qualifications such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) licence or other accounting certifications; students often combine coursework with internships and exam preparation to meet credentialing requirements.

Alumni regularly move into leadership positions in accounting, financial reporting, audit and consulting, or continue their studies in graduate programmes in accounting, taxation, business administration or law.

Why study at Central Washington University

Central Washington University offers small-class teaching with accessible faculty who have both academic and practical experience in accounting and business. The programme emphasises experiential learning through internships, community-engaged projects and a practicum-style capstone that helps bridge classroom theory with workplace expectations.

Students benefit from career services, employer networking in the Pacific Northwest, student organisations for accounting majors and resources to support exam preparation and professional development. The campus environment in Ellensburg also provides a focused setting for study with opportunities to connect with regional businesses and public-sector employers for hands-on experience.