Chatham University

What you'll study

The curriculum provides a foundation in core business disciplines alongside progressive study of accounting topics. Early courses cover financial accounting, managerial accounting, business law and principles of economics, and students develop quantitative skills through statistics and spreadsheet modelling. Intermediate and advanced accounting modules typically include intermediate financial accounting, cost accounting, auditing and assurance, taxation, and accounting information systems.

Programme elements emphasise application and professional readiness: ethics in accounting, financial statement analysis, forensic accounting techniques, and courses on regulatory environment and corporate governance. Many students complete a capstone project or internship that integrates classroom learning with workplace practice. Elective choices often allow focus on areas such as non‑profit accounting, advanced taxation, or financial management, and there is attention to contemporary tools such as Excel, database fundamentals and accounting software.

Typical structure

• Core business and general education modules in the first one to two years.
• Intermediate and specialised accounting modules in the middle years.
• Advanced electives, capstone project and internship opportunities in the final year.
• Opportunities for experiential learning through internships, practicum placements and engagement with regional employers in the Pittsburgh area.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Typical admissions considerations include academic transcripts with evidence of algebra or higher‑level mathematics, and competence in written communication. Chatham reviews applications holistically, so a personal statement, letter(s) of recommendation and evidence of extracurricular or work experience can strengthen an application.

Transfer students should provide college transcripts; transfer credit is evaluated individually. Standardised tests may be considered but many US universities operate test‑optional policies, so applicants should consult Chatham's admissions guidance for current practice. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency by recognised tests or approved alternatives.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a broad range of accounting and finance roles. Common entry positions include staff accountant, tax associate, audit associate, accounts payable/receivable specialist and financial analyst. With experience and further qualifications, alumni progress to roles such as senior accountant, controller, internal auditor, tax manager, or financial controller.

For those pursuing professional certification, the programme prepares students for exam pathways such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and other credentials; note that licensing bodies often require additional credit hours or specific coursework beyond the bachelor’s degree. Graduates also work in specialised areas including forensic accounting, non‑profit accounting, governmental accounting and small business advisory. Chatham’s location in the Pittsburgh region provides access to internships and employers across public accounting firms, corporations, healthcare and education sectors.

Why study at Chatham University

Chatham offers a personalised learning environment with relatively small class sizes, allowing close interaction with faculty who often bring practitioner experience to their teaching. The university emphasises experiential learning and professional readiness, with opportunities for internships, applied projects and CPA exam preparation support.

Students benefit from Chatham’s connections to the regional business community, career services that support resume development and employer engagement, and advising that helps map academic choices to licensure or career goals. The university’s interdisciplinary ethos and commitment to ethical leadership also provide a broader context for accounting study, preparing graduates to contribute responsibly across sectors.