University of Hawaii

What you'll study

• Financial Accounting: recording transactions, preparing and analysing financial statements in accordance with recognised accounting frameworks.
• Managerial Accounting: cost analysis, budgeting, performance measurement and decision-support techniques for managers.
• Taxation: fundamentals of individual and business taxation, tax compliance, planning and the impact of tax law on business decisions.
• Auditing and Assurance: audit planning, risk assessment, internal controls, audit evidence and reporting standards.
• Financial Management: corporate finance topics including capital budgeting, working capital management and financial statement analysis.
• Accounting Information Systems: use of accounting software, data flows, and controls in electronic financial reporting environments.
• Ethics and Professional Responsibility: ethical frameworks, regulatory obligations and professional conduct for accountants.
• Quantitative and Business Foundations: introductory and intermediate courses in economics, statistics, business law and spreadsheet modelling.
• Practical Experience: options typically include internships, capstone projects or applied studies that connect classroom learning to workplace practices.

Entry requirements

• A completed secondary school qualification or equivalent with a solid academic record in quantitative subjects.
• Preparation in mathematics (often including algebra and introductory statistics) and strong English language ability.
• Some applicants will be asked to show evidence of readiness for university-level study; international applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or prior study in English if required.
• Relevant experience or extracurricular involvement in business, finance or student accounting societies is welcomed but not compulsory.
• Specific admission pathways and prerequisite requirements can vary by campus and faculty; applicants should consult the University of Hawaii admissions information for the exact requirements that apply to their situation.

Career prospects

• Graduates commonly enter public accounting firms (audit and tax), corporate accounting departments, government finance and regulatory agencies, and non-profit financial management.
• Specialist career paths include external audit, tax advisory, management accounting, forensic accounting, financial analysis and accounting systems implementation.
• The degree also provides a foundation for professional qualifications such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and other certifications; meeting the educational and credit-hour requirements for such credentials may require additional study beyond the bachelor’s degree.
• Many graduates find opportunities with local and regional employers as well as international firms that operate in the Pacific and Asia, supported by internship networks and employer links.

Why study at University of Hawaii

• Regional business links: the university’s connections with the Honolulu business community and Pacific-region organisations help students access internships and employer networks.
• Practical focus: programmes emphasise applied accounting skills, software proficiency and ethical practice to prepare graduates for workplace responsibilities.
• Faculty and resources: students benefit from faculty with academic and industry experience, accounting labs and access to professional research resources.
• International and regional perspective: the University of Hawaii’s location encourages exposure to trans-Pacific commerce, useful for students intending to work with international clients or firms.
• Support for professional pathways: academic advising helps students plan coursework to meet prerequisites for professional examinations and postgraduate study where needed.