Alvernia University

What you'll study

This programme combines core business studies with specialised accounting coursework and experiential learning. You will study introductory and intermediate financial accounting, managerial accounting, taxation, auditing, and accounting information systems. Supporting courses typically include business law, finance, economics, statistics, and Excel-based data analysis. Many students complete a practicum or internship with local firms or nonprofit organisations, and a senior capstone or research project integrates technical knowledge with ethical and communication skills.

• Core accounting topics: financial accounting, managerial accounting, federal taxation, auditing, and accounting information systems.
• Supporting business topics: finance, business law, managerial economics, statistics, and ethics.
• Experiential learning: internships/practicums, case projects, and a senior capstone integrating technical and professional skills.
• Professional preparation: courses and advising aligned with requirements for accounting credentials (for example, pathways to the CPA through additional coursework or graduate study).

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high-school diploma or equivalent with a college-preparatory curriculum that includes mathematics. Admissions decisions consider academic transcripts, a personal statement, and any required application materials. Standardised tests may be optional depending on the university’s policy; prospective transfer students can submit college transcripts for credit evaluation. Relevant extracurricular experience, such as business clubs, volunteer accounting work or part-time jobs, can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles across public, private and nonprofit sectors. Typical entry-level positions include staff accountant, tax associate, audit associate, accounts payable/receivable specialist and financial analyst roles. With experience and/or further study, alumni move into senior accounting, management accounting, audit manager, tax manager, forensic accounting, financial controller and chief financial officer roles. Many graduates pursue professional certification (for example, the CPA, CMA or other credentials) or graduate study in accounting, business administration or law.

Why study at Alvernia University

Alvernia offers a values-centered education shaped by its Franciscan tradition, emphasising ethical practice and community engagement. Students benefit from small class sizes, accessible faculty who combine academic and professional experience, and opportunities for internships with regional accounting firms and organisations. The programme emphasises practical skills—such as spreadsheet modelling, accounting software familiarity and professional communication—and provides advising to help students plan credentialing and career pathways. Community service, practicum placements and close faculty mentorship help translate classroom learning into workplace readiness.