Loyola University Chicago

What you'll study

The programme combines core accounting subjects with supporting courses in business, law, information systems and ethics. You will study foundational topics such as financial accounting, managerial accounting and introductory taxation, then progress to more advanced subjects including auditing, advanced financial reporting, cost accounting and accounting information systems.

• Foundation modules: principles of financial accounting, principles of managerial accounting, business statistics, microeconomics and macroeconomics.
• Core accounting modules: intermediate financial accounting, advanced financial accounting, auditing and assurance, federal taxation of individuals and entities, cost and managerial control systems.
• Technical and systems modules: accounting information systems, database fundamentals for business, spreadsheet modelling for accountants.
• Related business modules: corporate finance, business law, ethics in accounting, organisational behaviour and management.
• Capstone and experiential learning: a capstone accounting seminar or practicum, internship placement options with regional firms and client-based classes that apply accounting methods to real organisational problems.

The curriculum emphasises ethical decision-making and communication skills alongside technical competence. Students often have the opportunity to take elective modules in areas such as forensic accounting, international accounting, or nonprofit accounting, and to participate in student-run accounting organisations and case competitions.

Entry requirements

Entry is typically at the undergraduate level with general university admissions standards. Applicants are expected to have a strong secondary-school record with mathematics to a level demonstrating quantitative ability. Typical academic evidence includes high school diploma with good grades, A-levels or equivalent; International Baccalaureate diploma holders are also considered.

• Academic background: successful completion of secondary education with solid achievement in mathematics and quantitative subjects.
• Standardised tests and transcripts: submission of official transcripts; standardised test requirements (if any) follow university admissions policies and may vary by applicant.
• Additional materials: personal statement outlining interest in accounting, and letters of recommendation where requested. Relevant work or volunteer experience can strengthen an application but is not usually mandatory.

Applicants whose first language is not English may be required to provide proof of English proficiency in line with university requirements. Prospective students should consult Loyola University Chicago admissions for precise criteria and any programme-specific prerequisites.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of accounting and finance roles. Many move into public accounting firms in audit, tax and advisory practices; others pursue positions in corporate finance, management accounting, financial reporting, budgeting and internal audit. Opportunities also exist in nonprofit organisations, government agencies and small business accounting.

• Public accounting: staff accountant, audit associate, tax associate.
• Corporate roles: financial analyst, management accountant, controller-track positions.
• Specialist areas: forensic accounting, valuation and transaction advisory, compliance and risk management.
• Further study and certification: graduates commonly pursue professional credentials such as the CPA or a master’s degree in accounting or taxation to meet licensure and career advancement requirements.

Internships and on-campus recruiting activities help students transition to full-time roles with accounting firms, corporations and government agencies.

Why study at Loyola University Chicago

Loyola’s business programmes are offered through the Quinlan School of Business, which emphasises ethical leadership and a values-driven approach consistent with the university’s Jesuit educational mission. The school integrates classroom learning with experiential opportunities—internships, client projects and career development services—that connect students with Chicago’s large finance and professional services market.

• Practical experience: strong links to regional accounting firms and corporate employers, plus internship and practicum opportunities.
• Ethical and global perspective: curriculum that incorporates ethics, social responsibility and, where relevant, international accounting issues.
• Support for professional certification: advising and course pathways that prepare students for professional exams and potential graduate-level study.
• Campus and career resources: access to career services, alumni networks in the Chicago business community and student organisations focused on accounting and finance.

Together, these elements aim to prepare graduates with the technical knowledge, ethical grounding and practical experience sought by employers in accounting and related services.