Presbyterian College

What you'll study

This programme combines core accounting subjects with complementary business and general education topics to develop technical competence and professional judgement. Typical modules include:

• Introduction to Financial Accounting — principles of financial reporting, preparation and analysis of financial statements.
• Managerial and Cost Accounting — budgeting, cost behaviour, performance measurement and decision-making tools for managers.
• Taxation — fundamentals of individual and business taxation, tax planning and compliance considerations.
• Auditing and Assurance — audit processes, internal control assessment, professional ethics and assurance standards.
• Accounting Information Systems — how accounting systems capture, process and report financial information; an introduction to relevant software and controls.
• Advanced Accounting — accounting for business combinations, consolidations and specialised reporting issues.
• Business Law and Ethics — legal environment of business, contract basics and ethical responsibilities of accountants.
• Governmental and Nonprofit Accounting — fund accounting, reporting and accountability in public and charitable organisations.
• Capstone or Senior Seminar — integrative project or case studies that require application of technical skills and professional judgement.
• Internship/Practical Experience — a placement with a local firm, nonprofit or government office to develop workplace skills and professional networks.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a secondary school diploma and provide official transcripts. Typical academic preparation includes satisfactory performance in mathematics and English at high-school level. Colleges may also consider standardised test scores, letters of recommendation and a personal statement or interview as part of the selection process.

Recommended preparation for success in the programme includes college-preparatory mathematics (such as algebra) and coursework that develops analytical writing and quantitative reasoning. Mature applicants and those with prior college credits should submit full transcripts for assessment.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of accounting and finance roles. Common entry-level positions include:

• Staff accountant or bookkeeper in corporate accounting departments
• Auditor or assurance associate with public accounting firms
• Tax preparer or tax associate in practice or industry
• Management accountant or financial analyst supporting business decision-making
• Accountant for nonprofit organisations or governmental bodies

Many students use the degree as a foundation for professional qualifications such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or equivalent certifications, or for postgraduate study in accounting, business administration or related fields. The programme’s emphasis on internships and applied work also helps graduates build networks and practical experience valued by employers.

Why study at Presbyterian College

Presbyterian College offers accounting within a liberal arts context, emphasising small class sizes, personalised faculty mentoring and a community-oriented learning environment. The programme integrates ethical reflection and service-mindedness consistent with the college’s mission, while providing opportunities for experiential learning through internships and local employer partnerships.

Students benefit from close interaction with faculty who teach both foundational theory and applied techniques, as well as access to career services that help with placement, resume development and interview preparation. The combination of rigorous coursework, practical experience and a supportive campus community prepares graduates to enter the accounting profession with competence and professional integrity.