Eastern Michigan University

What you'll study

The programme combines core business studies with specialised accounting courses to build technical competence and professional judgement. Early coursework covers principles of financial and managerial accounting, business law, micro- and macroeconomics, and core quantitative skills.

• Intermediate Financial Accounting — deeper study of reporting standards, financial statement presentation and measurement issues.
• Cost and Managerial Accounting — costing systems, budgeting, performance measurement and decision-support tools for managers.
• Auditing and Assurance — audit process, risk assessment, internal control and ethical responsibilities of auditors.
• Federal Taxation — fundamentals of individual (and often business) taxation, tax research and compliance principles.
• Accounting Information Systems — accounting software, database concepts, internal controls and how IT supports accounting processes.
• Advanced and Specialized Topics — courses such as advanced accounting, governmental and not-for-profit accounting, forensic accounting, and accounting analytics.
• Capstone and Experiential Learning — integrative projects, case studies and opportunities for internships or cooperative placements with regional employers.

Throughout the degree there is emphasis on Excel and other analytic tools, professional ethics, communication skills and preparation for professional examinations.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a high school diploma (or equivalent) with a competitive academic record. Typical preparation includes units in mathematics (algebra and preferably precalculus), English and social studies. Evidence of strong quantitative ability and written communication is valued.

• Submission of official high school transcripts is required; transfer applicants should provide college transcripts.
• Standardised tests may be considered according to the university's admissions policies; consult the admissions office for current guidance.
• Some students begin in the broader College of Business curriculum before declaring the accounting major; meeting prerequisites in introductory accounting and business courses is usually necessary to progress into upper-level accounting classes.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of roles across public, private and public-sector organisations. Common career paths include:

• Public accounting — audit and tax roles at regional and national firms.
• Corporate accounting and finance — financial reporting, management accounting, budgeting and internal control.
• Forensic accounting and investigation — fraud examination and litigation support.
• Government and not-for-profit accounting — financial management, compliance and grant accounting.
• Advisory and consulting roles — business process improvement and systems implementation.

Many graduates pursue professional certification (CPA, CMA, or other credentials) or postgraduate study to enhance career mobility and meet licensure requirements. The programme’s curriculum is structured to prepare students for the educational components of these examinations.

Why study at Eastern Michigan University

Eastern Michigan University offers this programme within a business school environment that emphasises applied learning and regional employer connections. Students benefit from experienced faculty with practical accounting backgrounds, dedicated career services, and access to internship opportunities with firms in the Detroit metropolitan area and beyond.

The department places practical skill development at its centre — hands-on use of accounting and data-analysis tools, case-based learning, and opportunities for networking through student organisations and career fairs. These elements help students transition from academic study to professional roles in accounting and related services.