Slippery Rock University

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced study in core accounting disciplines with electives that reflect current practice in public, private and nonprofit sectors. You will study financial reporting at an advanced level, managerial and cost accounting, taxation of individuals and businesses, and auditing and assurance services. The curriculum also covers accounting information systems, ethics and professional responsibility, and research or project methods.

Typical modules and structure

• Advanced Financial Accounting and Reporting
• Advanced Managerial and Cost Accounting
• Federal Taxation: Individuals and Business Entities
• Auditing and Assurance Services
• Accounting Information Systems and Data Analytics
• Professional Ethics and Regulatory Environment
• Research Methods in Accounting or Applied Capstone Project
• Electives in areas such as forensic accounting, nonprofit accounting, and advanced taxation

The programme is offered with flexible delivery options to accommodate full‑time and part‑time students, including evening classes and blended formats. Students typically choose between a practicum/capstone project that applies technical skills to a real client or organisation, or a research/thesis option where available.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. A degree in accounting is preferred, but candidates with related business degrees may be considered provided they have completed prerequisite coursework in financial accounting, managerial accounting, intermediate accounting, and basic taxation. Admissions typically require:

• A completed application and official transcripts
• A satisfactory undergraduate GPA; specific minimums are set by the department
• A current résumé or curriculum vitae
• A personal statement outlining career goals and reasons for graduate study
• Letters of recommendation (often one or two)

Some applicants may be asked to provide GRE or GMAT scores, although waivers or alternatives may be available based on professional experience or prior academic performance. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests unless exempt.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of accounting and finance roles. Common career paths include:

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and roles in public accounting firms (audit, tax, advisory)
• Corporate accountant, financial reporting analyst, or controller roles in industry
• Tax specialist or consultant in accounting firms or corporate tax departments
• Forensic accountant, internal auditor, or compliance officer in government and private sectors
• Positions in nonprofit accounting, governmental accounting, and financial management

The programme’s emphasis on technical competence, ethics and practical projects helps graduates meet the educational requirements for professional certification and be competitive with regional and national employers.

Why study at Slippery Rock University

Slippery Rock University offers a personalised learning environment with small class sizes and faculty who combine academic credentials with practical experience. The department maintains connections with regional accounting firms and employers, providing opportunities for internships, networking and applied projects. Flexible scheduling options make the programme accessible to working professionals, and the university’s career services support job search, interview preparation and connections to alumni in the accounting profession. Located within reach of Pittsburgh’s business community, students can access a broad market of employers while studying in a campus setting focused on student success.