Saint Louis University

What you'll study

The programme builds on core accounting principles and emphasises advanced technical competence, ethical decision-making and professional communication. Typical taught subjects include advanced financial accounting, auditing and assurance, taxation of individuals and businesses, managerial and cost accounting, accounting information systems and financial statement analysis. Elective options commonly allow study in areas such as forensic accounting, governmental and nonprofit accounting, international accounting, and advanced taxation.

Coursework is commonly delivered through a mix of lectures, case studies and project-based assessments. The curriculum often incorporates preparation for professional exams and may include opportunities for a capstone project or practicum with real clients or firms to apply technical knowledge in practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field from an accredited institution. Those with degrees in other disciplines may be considered if they have completed foundational accounting and quantitative coursework; some bridge or prerequisite courses may be required.

• Official academic transcripts demonstrating satisfactory undergraduate performance.
• A current CV or résumé outlining relevant academic and work experience.
• Personal statement describing professional goals and reasons for pursuing the degree.
• Letters of recommendation are often requested, typically one or two from academic or professional referees.
• International applicants will normally need to demonstrate English language proficiency through standard tests unless exempt.

Standardised test scores (such as the GMAT or GRE) may be optional or considered on a case-by-case basis depending on the strength of the applicant’s academic record and professional experience. Admissions decisions can also take into account relevant work experience in accounting or finance.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of roles across public accounting firms, corporations, government agencies and nonprofit organisations. Common career paths include:

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) — public accounting roles in audit, tax and advisory services; the programme is designed to help students meet educational requirements for CPA licensure in many jurisdictions.
• Financial and Management Accountant — roles in corporate finance, budgeting, cost control and financial reporting.
• Tax Consultant — compliance and planning work for individuals and businesses, either in firms or in industry.
• Forensic Accountant/Analyst — investigative accounting, fraud examination and litigation support.
• Internal Auditor and Risk Specialist — governance, internal controls and risk management positions within organisations.

Graduates also commonly progress to consulting and advisory roles, or continue towards specialised certifications (for example, CPA, CMA, or forensic accounting credentials) or doctoral study.

Why study at Saint Louis University

Saint Louis University offers a Jesuit educational tradition that emphasises ethical leadership, critical thinking and service. The accounting programme benefits from faculty with practical and academic experience, opportunities for engagement with local and regional accounting firms in the St. Louis market, and access to campus career services that support internships and employer recruitment.

Students can draw on university resources such as professional development workshops, networking events with alumni in accounting and finance, and partnerships that facilitate experiential learning. The programme’s curricular focus on both technical skills and professional readiness helps prepare graduates for licensure exams and for entering competitive accounting and finance roles.