Grand Valley State University

What you'll study

The degree combines core business and liberal arts studies with specialised accounting coursework. You will study principles of financial accounting, managerial accounting, intermediate accounting sequence, taxation, auditing, and accounting information systems. Typical modules and topics include:

• Financial Accounting: preparation and analysis of financial statements, accounting standards and reporting issues.
• Managerial Accounting: cost behaviour, budgeting, performance measurement and decision-support tools.
• Intermediate Accounting I & II: in-depth study of assets, liabilities, revenue recognition and equity accounting topics.
• Taxation: individual and business tax fundamentals, tax planning and compliance.
• Auditing: audit processes, internal controls, risk assessment and professional ethics.
• Accounting Information Systems: accounting software, data analytics concepts and IT controls relevant to financial reporting.
• Advanced and elective topics: forensic accounting, governmental and nonprofit accounting, international accounting and financial statement analysis.

The programme usually includes general education requirements and business core courses such as finance, marketing and management to ensure broad commercial understanding. Many students choose elective modules in data analytics, information technology or law to complement accounting studies. Practical learning is emphasised through case work, group projects and opportunities for internships with local and regional employers.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a high-school diploma or equivalent with a solid academic record. Recommended preparation includes courses in mathematics (such as algebra and preferably precalculus), economics and business-related subjects if available. Admissions typically consider secondary school grades and course rigour; standardised test scores may be optional depending on institutional policy.

Transfer students should have completed relevant college coursework in introductory accounting and general education credits; specific transfer credit evaluation is carried out by the university. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent qualifications where required.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of accounting and finance roles across the public, private and not-for-profit sectors. Common entry-level positions include:

• Staff accountant or auditor in public accounting firms
• Corporate accountant, financial analyst or cost accountant in industry
• Tax associate or tax preparer roles
• Government or nonprofit accounting positions
• Forensic accounting and fraud examination support roles

The programme also prepares students to pursue professional credentials such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA) or other specialised certifications. Many graduates progress to senior accounting, audit or finance roles, consultancy, or further study such as a master’s in accounting or business.

Why study at Grand Valley State University

Grand Valley’s accounting programmes are housed within the Seidman College of Business, offering a curriculum designed to meet professional standards and the academic requirements for licensure pathways. The college emphasises experiential learning: students can access internship placements with regional firms and corporations, participate in student organisations such as Beta Alpha Psi, and use specialised resources like accounting labs and software training.

The university maintains ties with the Grand Rapids and West Michigan business community, providing networking opportunities, career services support and employer recruitment on campus. Faculty teaching the programme typically combine academic and professional experience, guiding students toward practical skills, ethical practice and readiness for professional examinations and careers in accounting.