Augustana University

What you'll study

This degree combines core accounting coursework with a liberal arts curriculum, giving you technical competency in accounting alongside communication, critical thinking and ethical perspectives. Study typically spans four years and includes major requirements, general education and opportunities for internships or practicum experiences.

Typical modules and subjects

• Introduction to Financial Accounting: principles of recording and reporting financial transactions.
• Managerial (Cost) Accounting: cost behaviour, budgeting and internal decision support.
• Intermediate Financial Accounting I & II: deeper study of measurement and presentation of financial statements.
• Auditing and Assurance Services: audit process, internal control and professional standards.
• Taxation: individual and basic business tax concepts and compliance issues.
• Accounting Information Systems: accounting software, data management and controls.
• Business Law and Ethics: legal environment of business and ethical decision making in accounting.
• Advanced topics/capstone in accounting: integrative projects, case studies or research in accounting practice.
• Supporting business courses: principles of finance, management, economics, and statistics or quantitative methods.
• Internship or practicum: workplace experience with local firms, governmental agencies or non‑profits; many students complete internships in the Sioux Falls business community.

Entry requirements

Admission to Augustana’s undergraduate programmes typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent with a competitive academic record. Successful applicants usually present solid preparation in mathematics and English; coursework in algebra, precalculus, or statistics is recommended. Transfer applicants are considered on the basis of college transcripts and transferable credit.

Augustaana welcomes applications from international students; applicants whose first language is not English are normally expected to demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or approved alternative evidence, as specified by the university. Exact entry thresholds and documentation requirements should be checked with the university admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in Accounting and Related Services pursue a wide range of careers in accounting and finance. Typical roles include:

• Staff accountant or financial accountant in public accounting firms or corporate finance departments.
• Audit associate or internal auditor in public accounting or corporate settings.
• Tax preparer, tax analyst or tax consultant in accounting firms or industry.
• Financial analyst, budget analyst or controller in business, government or non‑profit organisations.
• Forensic accountant or compliance specialist focusing on fraud investigation and regulatory compliance.
• Many graduates pursue professional credentials such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Management Accountant (CMA); the programme is structured to support the coursework and skill development relevant to these exams.

Why study at Augustana University

Augustana offers a small-campus, liberal arts environment where accounting students benefit from close interaction with faculty and a curriculum that emphasises both technical skills and broad professional competencies. The university’s location in Sioux Falls provides strong links to a regional business community with internship and employment opportunities at public accounting firms, banks and corporate finance departments.

Students gain practical experience through internships and applied projects, access to advising focused on certification pathways (such as the CPA), and support from campus career services for networking, resume preparation and employer engagement. The programme’s focus on ethical practice and communication prepares graduates to work effectively across organisations and industries.