Canisius University

What you'll study

This four‑year undergraduate programme builds a foundation in business and develops specialised accounting competencies. Early study focuses on core business and quantitative skills — such as introductory financial accounting, principles of economics, business statistics and spreadsheet modelling — while upper‑level study emphasises professional accounting topics and applications.

• Core accounting courses: Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, Intermediate Accounting I & II, Cost Accounting
• Professional topics: Auditing, Federal Taxation, Accounting Information Systems, Corporate and Partnership Tax, Forensic Accounting
• Supporting business subjects: Business Law, Corporate Finance, Managerial Economics, Business Ethics
• Data and technology: Accounting analytics, database concepts, Excel for accountants and use of common accounting software
• Experiential learning: Internship opportunities with public accounting firms, corporations and nonprofit organisations, plus a senior capstone or research project that integrates technical knowledge and professional communication
• Electives and concentrations: Options to tailor studies toward taxation, auditing, financial reporting or data analytics depending on career goals

Entry requirements

Admission is at the undergraduate level and requires a recognised high school diploma or equivalent with a college preparatory curriculum. Successful applicants typically have demonstrated strengths in mathematics and quantitative reasoning and provide an official transcript. Canisius evaluates applications holistically, taking into account academic record, recommendations and personal statement.

For applicants whose first language is not English, proof of English proficiency is required. Standardised tests may be submitted where available but are not the sole criterion for admission. Transfer applicants should submit college transcripts and any relevant coursework in business or mathematics for evaluation.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for entry and intermediate roles in public accounting firms, industry, government and nonprofit organisations. Common positions include:

• Staff accountant and external auditor at regional or national public accounting firms
• Management accountant, cost accountant or financial analyst in corporate finance departments
• Tax associate or consultant in tax practices and corporate tax departments
• Internal auditor, compliance analyst, or roles in nonprofit and government finance

Many students pursue professional certification such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA) or other credentials; note that fulfilment of specific credit and experience requirements for licensure varies by jurisdiction and may require additional coursework beyond the bachelor’s degree. Graduates also move into graduate study in accounting, taxation or business to advance technical expertise and career prospects.

Why study at Canisius University

Canisius offers a student‑centred learning environment with small classes and accessible faculty, enabling personalised mentorship and close collaboration on applied projects. The university’s location in the Buffalo metropolitan area gives students access to internships and networking with regional accounting firms, corporate finance departments and public sector employers.

The programme emphasises experiential education — internships, community partnerships and a senior capstone — so students graduate with practical experience and a professional network. Student organisations and honour societies provide additional opportunities for professional development, while career services support interview preparation and recruiting for internships and graduate positions.