University of Mississippi

What you'll study

The undergraduate accounting programme builds a foundation in core business disciplines before moving into specialised accounting topics. Early coursework typically covers principles of financial and managerial accounting, micro- and macroeconomics, business statistics and introductory finance.

• Intermediate and advanced financial accounting – in-depth study of financial reporting, consolidation and specialised transactions.
• Managerial and cost accounting – budgeting, performance measurement and cost systems used in management decision-making.
• Auditing – audit processes, standards, evidence gathering and professional ethics.
• Federal taxation – fundamentals of taxation for individuals and businesses and implications for planning.
• Accounting information systems and data analytics – use of accounting software, databases, Excel modelling and data analysis techniques relevant to accountants.
• Business law and ethics – legal environment of business and the ethical responsibilities of accounting professionals.
• Capstone and experiential learning – practicum, case studies or capstone projects that integrate accounting knowledge; internship opportunities with regional firms and organisations.

Elective options and cross-disciplinary courses allow students to customise study in areas such as forensic accounting, governmental and non-profit accounting, financial statement analysis or information systems. The programme emphasises both technical competence and communication skills required for professional practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a secondary school diploma (or equivalent) and present a competitive academic record with strong performance in mathematics and related subjects. The admissions process considers cumulative GPA, the strength of the high-school curriculum and other achievements.

• Recommended preparation: coursework in algebra, calculus or statistics, and introductory economics or business if available.
• Standardised test scores may be considered where submitted; applicants should consult the university admissions information about current testing policies.
• Transfer applicants: successful college-level coursework in quantitative and business subjects and a satisfactory college GPA are required for transfer admission into the business programme.
• International applicants: proof of secondary education completion, an acceptable English language proficiency score where applicable, and credential evaluation as required by the university.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of accounting and finance roles across public accounting firms, industry, government and non-profit organisations. Common entry-level positions include staff accountant, tax associate, audit associate, financial analyst and internal accounting roles.

• Public accounting – audit, tax and advisory services with regional and national firms; a typical path toward CPA licensure.
• Corporate accounting and finance – roles in financial reporting, controllership, budgeting and management accounting.
• Government and non-profit – accounting and compliance positions with municipal, state or federal agencies and charitable organisations.
• Specialist areas – forensic accounting, internal audit, data analytics and systems implementation or consulting.
• Continuing professional development – many graduates pursue the additional credit hours or graduate study required for professional licences such as the CPA, CMA or master’s degrees in accounting or taxation.

Why study at University of Mississippi

The University of Mississippi offers accounting education delivered by faculty with practitioner and research experience, supported by the university’s business school resources. The programme benefits from accreditation and close links with local and regional employers that provide internship and recruitment pathways.

• Hands-on learning through case studies, software labs and internship placements with firms across Mississippi and the broader region.
• Student organisations and honour societies that build professional networks and support — opportunities for mentoring, competitions and community engagement.
• Access to campus career services, accounting-focused recruiting events and workshops that prepare students for licensure exams and employment.
• Flexible elective choices and advising to support students aiming for certification, graduate study or specialised career tracks.