Mercy College

What you'll study

The programme provides a comprehensive grounding in core accounting principles and the business context in which accountants operate. You will take progressive coursework in financial and managerial accounting, auditing, taxation, and accounting information systems, alongside supporting subjects in business law, finance and economics. Typical modules include:

• Introductory Financial Accounting – fundamental concepts, preparation and analysis of financial statements.
• Intermediate Financial Accounting – measurement and reporting of assets, liabilities, equity and revenue recognition.
• Cost and Managerial Accounting – costing methods, budgeting, performance measurement and decision-making tools.
• Auditing and Assurance – audit process, professional standards, internal control and ethical responsibilities.
• Federal and State Taxation – tax compliance and planning for individuals and business entities.
• Accounting Information Systems – systems for recording transactions, internal controls and the use of accounting software.
• Business Law and Ethics – legal framework for business, regulatory environment and ethical issues in accounting.
• Advanced Topics / Electives – forensic accounting, international accounting, non-profit accounting or specialised tax topics.
• Capstone Project or Internship – applied project or workplace placement to integrate learning and gain practical experience.

Courses combine lectures, case studies, hands-on software work and opportunities for internships or cooperative placements with regional accounting firms and organisations. The curriculum is designed to develop technical competence, analytical thinking and professional communication skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a secondary-school qualification or equivalent. Typical admissions criteria include a demonstrated proficiency in mathematics and English, and a competitive academic record. Where relevant, Mercy College considers transfer applicants with prior college credit as well as mature students with work experience.

• Secondary-school certificate with evidence of strong numeracy and English skills.
• Recommended subjects: mathematics (or equivalent quantitative subject) and business-related courses where available.
• Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts; prior coursework in introductory accounting or finance may be considered for advanced standing.
• Applicants whose first language is not English may need to demonstrate English proficiency.
• Admission may include review of a personal statement and references; relevant work experience can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates of the BS Public Accounting programme move into a wide range of accounting and finance roles. The programme prepares students for entry-level positions and for further professional qualification:

• Public accounting firms – audit, tax and advisory roles in regional and national firms.
• Corporate accounting – financial reporting, management accounting, budgeting and internal control roles in industry.
• Government and public sector – accounting, compliance and financial management posts.
• Non-profit organisations – fund accounting and financial administration.
• Specialist roles – forensic accounting, tax specialist, systems implementation or consultancy.
• Further study and professional credentials – graduates commonly progress to professional qualifications (such as CPA), or pursue postgraduate degrees to meet licensing requirements or to specialise further.

Practical elements of the degree, including internships and employer links, help students build the workplace skills and professional networks sought by employers.

Why study at Mercy College

Mercy College offers a focused, career-oriented accounting programme taught by faculty with professional and academic experience. Small class sizes mean personalised attention and support, while the college’s location provides access to a broad network of accounting firms and employers for internships and placements. Students benefit from career services, accounting clubs and exam-preparation resources to support progression to professional credentials. The programme emphasises ethical practice and real-world application to prepare graduates to meet the demands of the accounting profession.