Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

What you'll study

The curriculum emphasises fundamental and advanced accounting skills alongside a broad business foundation. You will normally progress from introductory courses to specialised upper-level modules and a culminating experience such as a capstone project or internship.

• Core accounting sequence: Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, Intermediate Financial Accounting I & II, Advanced Accounting.
• Audit and assurance: Auditing principles and practice, audit report preparation, internal controls.
• Taxation: Individual and business taxation, tax research and compliance.
• Accounting information systems: Accounting software, database concepts, data analytics basics and Excel for accountants.
• Managerial and cost accounting: Cost analysis, budgeting, performance measurement and decision support.
• Business foundations: Principles of finance, business law, economics, organisational behaviour and business communications.
• Quantitative and ethical skills: Business statistics, quantitative methods and professional ethics in accounting.
• Experiential learning: Internship placements, practicum or capstone course integrating technical knowledge with real-world problems; opportunities for client-based projects.

Entry requirements

Admission to the bachelor’s programme typically requires a completed secondary school diploma or equivalent. Applicants are assessed on academic records and readiness for university-level study.

• High school diploma or recognised equivalent with satisfactory academic performance; particular attention is given to grades in mathematics-related subjects.
• Transcripts from previous study; some applicants may be asked for a personal statement outlining interest in accounting and career goals.
• Standardised test scores (where used) or other evidence of college readiness — check the university’s admissions page for current policies on test requirements.
• Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts; prior coursework in introductory accounting or business can be considered for credit.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of accounting and finance roles. The programme provides preparation for entry-level positions and for further study or professional certification.

• Public accounting: Staff accountant, audit associate or tax associate with regional and national firms.
• Corporate accounting: Financial accountant, management accountant, cost accountant or accounts payable/receivable roles within businesses.
• Specialist areas: Tax specialist, forensic accounting, internal audit, accounting information systems and financial analysis.
• Government and nonprofit: Accounting and finance roles in municipal, state or federal agencies and charities.
• Career progression: With experience and/or further study (for example a master’s in accounting, MBA or additional credits to meet state CPA requirements), graduates may pursue senior accounting roles, management or licensure as Certified Public Accountants (CPA).

Why study at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

Saint Mary’s offers a small-class, student-centred environment with emphasis on ethical leadership and service consistent with its Lasallian Catholic tradition. The accounting programme focuses on practical skills, close faculty mentorship and opportunities to connect with employers in the Twin Cities and region.

• Practical emphasis: Internship and practicum options help students gain workplace experience and build professional networks.
• Faculty and support: Instructors with professional accounting experience and dedicated academic advising for career planning and licensure guidance.
• Professional preparation: Coursework aligned with the knowledge areas required for public accounting and electives that support preparation for the CPA exam or graduate study.
• Community and extracurriculars: Student organisations, accounting clubs and networking events that connect students with local firms and alumni.