Rochester Institute of Technology

What you'll study

The programme builds a foundation in financial and managerial accounting, then progresses to specialised topics that prepare students for professional practice. Core areas include financial accounting, managerial and cost accounting, auditing, federal taxation, and accounting information systems. Students also study supporting business disciplines such as business law, corporate finance, business analytics and ethics.

Typical modules and topics you can expect:

• Introduction to Financial Accounting and Reporting
• Managerial Accounting and Cost Analysis
• Intermediate Financial Accounting I & II
• Advanced Accounting and Financial Statement Analysis
• Auditing Principles and Practice
• Federal Taxation for Individuals and Entities
• Accounting Information Systems and Data Analytics
• Business Law, Ethics and Corporate Governance
• Financial Management and Corporate Finance
• Capstone or senior seminar with case studies and applied projects

The degree combines classroom learning with experiential components: team projects, case work, and RIT's co‑operative education (co‑op) opportunities that place students in paid, credit‑bearing work terms with employers. Electives allow concentration in areas such as forensic accounting, tax planning, or business analytics.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a high school diploma or equivalent with a solid record in mathematics and English. Typical preparation includes coursework in algebra and, where available, courses in accounting, economics or business. Admissions will consider academic transcripts, a personal statement, and, for some applicants, letters of recommendation.

International applicants must provide certified academic records and evidence of English proficiency through accepted tests or institutional proof. Mature or transfer applicants should submit college transcripts; transfer credit is assessed individually. Prospective students are advised to check precise requirements with RIT admissions, as individual qualifications and pathways (including transfer and co‑op placement) can vary.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of accounting and finance roles. Common early career destinations include:

• Public accounting firms (audit and tax associate roles)
• Corporate accounting and financial reporting
• Internal audit and risk management
• Tax compliance and advisory services
• Forensic accounting and fraud examination
• Government and not‑for‑profit financial management
• Management consulting and business analytics

The programme prepares students for professional certifications; many graduates pursue the CPA, CMA or other credentials. Students benefit from RIT's employer connections and co‑op placements, which can lead directly to full‑time employment.

Why study at Rochester Institute of Technology

RIT's Saunders College of Business emphasises applied learning and industry engagement. The university's distinctive co‑op programme gives accounting students multiple opportunities for extended work experience with accounting firms, corporations and public agencies, helping bridge classroom theory and professional practice.

Facilities and resources include access to accounting and analytics labs, career services focused on employer recruitment, and faculty with both academic and practical experience. RIT also offers global study and work options through international campuses and exchange partners, enabling students to gain broader business perspectives. The programme's curriculum is designed to align with professional standards, while allowing flexibility to tailor studies to specific career interests.