Saint Louis University

What you'll study

The programme combines foundational business courses with specialised accounting modules and experiential learning. Early study focuses on business fundamentals such as principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics, business statistics, principles of finance and introductory financial accounting. Core accounting topics include intermediate financial accounting, managerial and cost accounting, auditing and assurance, federal taxation, and accounting information systems.

Students typically also study related subjects that reflect contemporary practice, including business law, ethics in accounting, financial statement analysis, spreadsheet modelling and data analytics for accountants. The degree usually culminates in a capstone or integrative course where students apply technical knowledge to a real or simulated client engagement, and many students complete an internship to gain workplace experience.

• Typical modules: Introductory and Intermediate Financial Accounting; Managerial/Cost Accounting; Auditing; Taxation; Accounting Information Systems; Business Law; Financial Statement Analysis; Ethics and Professional Responsibility; Data Analytics in Accounting.
• Structure: General education and business core, accounting major requirements, free electives, capstone/internship.
• Professional preparation: Coursework aligns with the expectations of professional bodies and provides a foundation for certification routes such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

Entry requirements

Applicants should present a high school diploma or equivalent with a strong academic record. Typical expectations include solid performance in mathematics and quantitative subjects. For domestic applicants, selection is based on secondary grades and relevant coursework; international applicants must demonstrate equivalent academic qualifications.

Saint Louis University also requires evidence of English language proficiency from applicants whose first language is not English. Some background in mathematics, statistics or economics is advantageous. Admissions may consider extracurricular achievements, essays and recommendation letters as part of a holistic review.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of careers across public accounting firms (audit and tax), corporate accounting and financial reporting, management accounting, forensic accounting, governmental and nonprofit finance, and advisory roles such as internal audit or risk management. Many graduates pursue professional credentials like the CPA; completing additional coursework or credits beyond the bachelor degree is commonly required for licensure in some jurisdictions.

Other destinations include financial analysis, budgeting and planning, consulting, information systems roles that support finance teams, and graduate study (e.g. Master of Accounting, MBA). The programme’s internship and career services support facilitate employer networking and placement into entry‑level positions.

Why study at Saint Louis University

Saint Louis University’s business programmes are delivered through the Chaifetz School of Business, located in a metropolitan setting that provides access to accounting firms and corporate employers in the St. Louis region. The school emphasises ethical leadership in the Jesuit tradition, integrating professional standards and social responsibility into the accounting curriculum.

Students benefit from faculty with professional and academic experience, experiential learning opportunities including internships and capstone projects, and career services that connect students with local and national employers. The programme’s focus on technical competence, communication and analytical skills prepares graduates for the demands of modern accounting roles and further professional qualifications.