Saginaw Valley State University

What you'll study

This programme combines foundational business coursework with specialised accounting subjects. You will study financial accounting, managerial accounting, taxation, auditing, accounting information systems, and cost accounting, together with supporting courses in business law, finance, economics and statistics. The curriculum emphasises practical skills: using spreadsheet and accounting software, preparing financial statements, performing audits and analysing managerial reports.

Typical modules include:

• Introduction to Financial Accounting – recording transactions and preparing primary financial statements.
• Managerial and Cost Accounting – budgeting, cost behaviours and decision-making for managers.
• Federal Income Taxation – principles of individual and business tax compliance.
• Auditing and Assurance – audit planning, evidence and professional standards.
• Accounting Information Systems – systems, controls and the use of accounting software.
• Business Law and Ethics – legal environment of business and ethical responsibilities of accountants.
• Finance and Financial Statement Analysis – corporate finance basics and interpreting accounting data.

The programme is delivered through a mix of lectures, case studies, group projects and labs. Students are encouraged to complete internships or cooperative placements to gain real-world experience and may have access to accounting labs and industry-standard software used by regional employers.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent with a college-preparatory curriculum. Strong performance in mathematics (algebra and preferably precalculus or statistics) is recommended. Admissions consider the overall academic record, letters of recommendation and any relevant extracurricular experience.

Typical requirements include:

• High school diploma or equivalent with completion of college-preparatory courses.
• Recommended subjects: algebra, statistics, and introductory economics or business.
• Transfer students: submission of college transcripts showing transferable credits and a demonstrated ability to succeed in quantitative coursework.
• International applicants: proof of English proficiency through recognised tests or institutional English programmes, and submission of evaluated academic credentials.

Specific admissions thresholds (such as GPA or test score minima) are set by the university admissions office; applicants should consult Saginaw Valley State University for current criteria and any programme-specific guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of accounting and finance roles. Common entry-level positions include staff accountant, tax associate, audit associate, accounts payable/receivable specialist and financial analyst. With experience and further study, graduates move into roles such as senior accountant, management accountant, internal auditor, tax manager, controller or finance manager.

The degree also provides the academic foundation needed to pursue professional certifications such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA); candidates should confirm the certification board's credit-hour and subject-matter requirements for licensure in their jurisdiction. Graduates may also find opportunities in government agencies, non-profit organisations, financial services and industry, or pursue postgraduate study in accounting, taxation or business administration.

Why study at Saginaw Valley State University

Saginaw Valley State University offers a student-focused environment with relatively small class sizes and accessible faculty who often bring practical experience from public practice and industry. The university maintains connections with employers in the Great Lakes Bay Region, supporting internships, networking and local recruitment opportunities.

Students benefit from applied learning through lab-based instruction and experiential components, career services that assist with internship placement and resume preparation, and clubs and activities related to accounting and business that enhance professional development. The programme is structured to balance theoretical understanding with the hands-on skills employers expect, making it a practical choice for students seeking a career in accounting and related services.