University of Rochester

What you'll study

The programme builds fundamental skills in financial and managerial accounting while integrating subjects that reflect modern practice: auditing, taxation, accounting information systems, and accounting analytics. Students follow a curriculum that balances core accounting courses with the University of Rochester's strong emphasis on quantitative methods and liberal-arts breadth.

• Introductory financial accounting: principles of financial reporting, preparation and interpretation of financial statements.
• Managerial and cost accounting: budgeting, cost behaviour, performance measurement and decision-making tools for management.
• Intermediate accounting: deeper study of recognition, measurement and disclosure topics for assets, liabilities, equity and revenue.
• Auditing and assurance: audit process, risk assessment, internal controls and professional standards.
• Federal taxation: individual and business tax fundamentals and tax planning concepts.
• Accounting information systems & data analytics: accounting databases, spreadsheet modelling, data visualisation and the use of analytics in audit and advisory work.
• Business law and ethics: regulatory environment, corporate governance and ethical considerations in accounting practice.
• Capstone or practicum: integrative projects, case studies or internships that apply accounting knowledge to real-world problems.

Electives and interdisciplinary courses in finance, economics, statistics, computer science and operations allow students to tailor their programme toward public accounting, corporate roles or analytics-driven careers. The programme also prepares students for professional pathways such as the CPA exam, with guidance on meeting state-specific educational credit requirements.

Entry requirements

Admission is to the University of Rochester and, for many students, to the business and economics programmes associated with the Simon School. Successful applicants typically demonstrate strong academic performance in secondary school, particularly in mathematics and quantitative subjects. Admissions teams look for evidence of analytical ability, clear written communication and academic curiosity.

• Strong high-school grades with coursework in mathematics (algebra, pre-calculus or calculus) and, where available, statistics or economics.
• Competitive performance in standardised testing or other evidence of quantitative readiness if required by the admissions process.
• Supporting materials such as personal statements, academic references and any required supplementary forms that highlight interest in accounting, work experience or extracurricular involvement.
• Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts showing success in quantitative and business-related coursework; prerequisites in introductory accounting or economics may be required.

Students who enter without prior accounting background can normally complete prerequisite introductory courses in their first year. Prospective students should consult the university admissions and departmental advisories for specific placement policies and any additional requirements tied to professional licensure plans.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a wide range of careers in public accounting, industry, government and non-profit organisations. Common entry-level roles include:

• Audit associate or assurance staff at public accounting firms (including international and regional firms).
• Tax associate or consultant advising individuals and businesses.
• Financial analyst, corporate accountant or management accountant within industry.
• Internal auditor, risk analyst or compliance specialist in corporate or financial-services settings.
• Consulting roles focused on finance transformation, data analytics or business process improvement.

Many students go on to pursue professional credentials such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or postgraduate study (Master of Accounting, MBA, or other specialised masters). The programme’s analytical and technical orientation also supports careers in fintech, forensic accounting and analytics-driven advisory services.

Why study at University of Rochester

The University of Rochester pairs a liberal-arts education with a data-focused approach to business and accounting education. Students benefit from small class sizes, close faculty mentorship, and opportunities to work on applied projects and internships with local and national employers.

• Analytical emphasis: coursework emphasises quantitative rigour and the use of data and technology in accounting practice.
• Cross-disciplinary opportunities: easy access to courses in economics, statistics, computer science and the sciences supports customised study paths.
• Career services and employer links: structured recruiting, internship programmes and alumni networks help students secure practical experience and graduate roles.
• Research-active faculty: faculty engaged in contemporary accounting research bring up-to-date practice and theory into the classroom.

Together, these features make the University of Rochester a strong choice for students seeking a technically rigorous accounting education grounded in broad intellectual development and focused on career readiness.