Indiana University

What you'll study

The programme combines foundational business courses with sequential accounting study, emphasising technical competence, professional ethics and the use of modern accounting systems. Early semesters cover financial accounting principles, managerial accounting, microeconomics and business statistics. Intermediate and advanced accounting subjects develop skills in financial reporting, consolidation, governmental and not‑for‑profit accounting, and accounting research.

• Financial Accounting – recording, reporting and analysis of business transactions and preparation of financial statements.
• Managerial and Cost Accounting – internal decision support, costing methods and performance measurement.
• Auditing and Assurance – audit processes, internal controls, risk assessment and professional standards.
• Federal Taxation – individual and business tax concepts, compliance and planning fundamentals.
• Accounting Information Systems – data flows, accounting software, ERP concepts and controls.
• Accounting Analytics and Technology – spreadsheets, database querying, data visualisation and introductory analytics for accountants.
• Business Law and Ethics – legal environment of business, regulatory issues and ethical decision making in accounting practice.
• Capstone/Integrative Experience – applied projects, case work or practicum that synthesise accounting knowledge in a real‑world context.

Students may also take electives in finance, information systems, economics and analytics, and are encouraged to participate in internships, study abroad and student professional organisations to gain practical experience.

Entry requirements

Admission is to Indiana University and, for business majors, to the relevant business school/college. Applicants typically need a completed secondary school diploma or equivalent with strong performance in quantitative subjects. Preparatory coursework valued by the programme includes high school mathematics (algebra and precalculus), English and coursework demonstrating analytical ability.

• Academic record demonstrating readiness for university‑level study; a competitive GPA in secondary education is expected.
• Demonstrated strength in mathematics and quantitative reasoning.
• Standardised tests (when submitted) and other credentials such as AP/IB credits can support an application; consult the university for current testing policies.
• Typical application materials include a personal statement, transcripts and any school‑specific forms; international applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements.

Performance in the university’s core business gateway courses or a specified pre‑major sequence may be required to progress into the accounting major; consult the programme handbook for the exact progression rules.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of accounting and finance roles. Common first positions include audit associate, tax associate, staff accountant, financial analyst and internal accounting roles in corporations. With experience, graduates move into senior accounting, managerial finance, tax planning, audit leadership or advisory and consulting roles.

• Public accounting firms (including national and regional firms and the so‑called Big Four)
• Corporate accounting and financial reporting roles
• Tax practice and compliance positions
• Forensic accounting and fraud examination
• Government finance and non‑profit accounting
• Consulting, business analytics and advisory services

Many graduates pursue professional credentials such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Note that CPA licensure typically requires meeting specific credit‑hour and subject requirements beyond a bachelor’s degree in some jurisdictions, so students often complete additional coursework or a master's (for example a Master of Accounting) to meet those requirements. The programme’s strong employer links and career services support internships and graduate placement.

Why study at Indiana University

Indiana University offers accounting education through a business faculty with a longstanding focus on combining rigorous technical training with experiential learning. The programme benefits from AACSB accreditation, dedicated accounting faculty, and a curriculum that integrates accounting systems and analytics tools used in practice.

• Robust career services and recruiting connections with public accounting firms, corporations and government employers.
• Opportunities for hands‑on learning: internships, practicum courses, case competitions and student chapters of professional organisations such as Beta Alpha Psi.
• Access to modern computing resources, accounting information systems and analytics platforms used by employers.
• A broad alumni network and employer relationships that support placement and mentoring.

Students aiming for professional certification or roles in accounting will find a structured pathway, advising support and experiential opportunities to build the technical, ethical and communication skills employers expect.