What is a degree in Accounting?

The field of accounting gives you the knowledge and skills to succeed at almost anything in the business world.  It prepares students to determine how a business is doing and communicate this knowledge to clients or others in the business organization.

Why study at UNT Dallas?

This program is designed to help students prepare for the CPA, but can also prepare them to take the CMA exam for immediate certification.  Students perform actual audits in practice sets. Experiential learning in tax preparation is available through participation in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program offered annually to the local community.

How likely am I to get a job after graduation?

The Occupational Outlook Handbook states growth in jobs in this area is faster than average nationally.  Stronger laws and regulations are projected to increase demand for accountants, along with growth and globalization of the economy. In 2014, accountants and auditors in the DFW area earned average annual wages of $76,740 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).

What are my career options?

  • Accountant
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA) (with additional hours)
  • Controller
  • Auditor
  • Actuary
  • Financial analyst
  • Financial examiner
  • Financial planner/advisor
  • Forensic accountant
  • Tax accountant
  • Insurance professional
  • Real estate professional
  • Budget analyst
  • Business analyst
  • Bookkeeper

What kinds of companies or industries are hiring?

  • Public Accounting firms
  • Sole Practitioners
  • Department of the Treasury
  • Government Accountability Office
  • State and local agencies
  • Universities and Colleges
  • Hospitals
  • Public school systems
  • Religious organizations 
  • Libraries and museums
  • Political parties
  • Labor unions
  • Companies of all sizes, in all industries
  • Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
  • Social service agencies and organizations
  • Office of Management and Budget
  • Securities Exchange Commission
  • Internal Revenue Service (IRS) 

Who can I contact for more information?

Dr. Randall Hahn, Associate Professor of Accounting, 972-338-1806.

Success Strategies

  • Earn good grades. Grades are an indicator of technical competence in accounting and of a person’s work ethic.
  • Actively participate in student organizations to develop leadership skills.
  • Develop excellent computer skills.
  • Learn to work well within a team.
  • Develop strong communication skills.
  • Certifications available through the Institute of Internal Auditors or the Institute of Management Accountants may increase job marketability in some areas of accounting.
  • If you are interested in going into management, consider obtaining a Master of Business Administration degree.
  • If you are interested in becoming a university professor, a Ph.D. in Accounting or a DBA, Doctorate in Business Administration, in accounting is generally required. 
  • Accounting students should develop their analytical, critical thinking and problem solving skills. Develop high ethical standards.Accuracy and attention to detail are important traits for accountants
  • Gain work experience and learn information about careers through internships. Consider completing internships in the spring semester, not just summer term.
  • Certifications available through the Institute of Internal Auditors or the Institute of Management Accountants may increase job marketability in some areas of accounting.
  • Public accounting firms hire candidates who meet the educational requirements for sitting for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam. Be prepared to take and pass the exam to become a CPA. 

Online Resources

Accounting.com: http://www.accounting.com/
CPAdirectory.com: http://www.cpadirectory.com/
(Post resume for free for positions in accounting offices; tools for CPA's; articles, & more)
Professional Finance Job Search & Career Information: http://www.jobsinthemoney.com/
Robert Half International Staffing - Finance and Accounting Jobs: http://www.roberthalffinance.com/Home
Financial Job Network: http://www.financialjobnet.com/
Tax and Accounting Sites Directory: http://www.taxsites.com/
Careers in Accounting: http://www.careers-in-accounting.com/
Bilingual career resources: http://www.saludos.com/cguide/bguide.html#finplanners
Start Here, Go Places: http://startheregoplaces.com/
(This site gives helpful information about the field of accounting, how to prepare, and salary expectations) 

Professional Resources

Association of Latino Professionals in Finance and Accounting: http://www.alpfa.org/
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants: http://www.aicpa.org/index.htm
Association of Government Accountants: http://www.agacgfm.org/
National Association of Black Accountants: http://www.nabainc.org/
The Educational Foundation for Women in Accounting: http://www.efwa.org/
Institute of Management Accountants: http://www.imanet.org/

Updated: Thursday, May 19, 2016 - 2:11pm