Program Overview
The accounting major at the University of Kansas gives students the tools to make sense of how organizations work and how they make decisions that shape communities. As part of the KU School of Business, undergraduate students majoring in accounting explore how financial reporting, ethical judgment, and analytical insight guide leaders, strengthen businesses, and support the broader economy.
The accounting major emphasizes core accounting principles, data‑informed thinking, and clear communication so that students can understand and explain the story behind the numbers. Through coursework taught by expert faculty and enriched by the KU School of Business’ collaborative learning environment, students gain a strong foundation that prepares them for further study, professional growth, and meaningful careers in business and beyond.
Students pursuing the accounting major also benefit from opportunities to prepare for professional certifications upon graduation, including the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam.
Graduates leave KU ready to interpret financial information, contribute to organizational strategy, and support responsible decision-making in a wide range of settings. With strong demand for accounting expertise nationwide, the accounting major offers both career stability and long-term growth potential for students seeking impactful and versatile business careers.
Learn more about KU
Undergraduate
For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Accounting, BSBSchool of Business
The Bachelor’s in Accounting is part of the KU School of Business, which advances business knowledge and prepares students to be leaders in business and society.Bachelor’s in Accounting Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the accounting major will be able to:
- Prepare and analyze financial statements in accordance with applicable accounting standards
- Apply auditing, taxation, and cost accounting principles to business scenarios
- Evaluate ethical responsibilities and professional standards in accounting practice
- Use accounting systems and analytical tools to support financial decision-making
- Interpret financial and non-financial data to inform organizational strategy
- Communicate accounting information clearly to internal and external stakeholders
What Careers are Possible with a Bachelor’s in Accounting?
An accounting major prepares students for a wide range of professional roles across industries and organizational types. Accounting skills are essential to business operations, regulatory compliance, and strategic planning, making graduates highly employable in diverse settings.
According to Lightcast data, accounting-related careers offer strong earning potential and long-term stability. The typical accounting degree salary varies by role, experience level, and location, but accounting professionals consistently earn competitive wages. Entry-level compensation is strong, and earnings increase with experience, certification, and advancement.
Common accounting major jobs include:
- Accountant
- Auditor
- Tax Associate
- Tax Consultant
- Financial Analyst
- Internal Auditor
- Management Accountant
The accounting major salary outlook remains positive due to consistent demand for financial expertise across public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Graduates of KU’s accounting program have proven to excel in the profession, with 92% of the Class of 2025 employed within 6 months of graduation.
Tuition and Financial Aid
KU offers competitive tuition rates and financial aid options to make earning a bachelor’s degree in accounting accessible. Learn more about scholarships and financial aid opportunities on the Financial Aid site.Admission Requirements
Admission to the accounting major at KU requires meeting general university freshman and transfer admission standards. Additionally:
Freshmen
- Test-optional: High school GPA of 3.4+
- With test scores (Business Index Pathway): Minimum index score of 5.55, calculated using a student’s high school GPA (on a 4.0 scale) and ACT composite or SAT math and evidence-based reading and writing scores.
- Example: a 27 ACT with 3.2 GPA would be 27/10 + 3.2 = 5.9
Transfers
- Sophomore standing (30 credit hours)
- Completion of three pre-admission foundation courses (must be taken for a grade):
- ACCT 200 Financial Accounting 1
- BSAN 202 Statistics
- ECON 142 Principles of Microeconomics
- Cumulative GPA of 2.5+, including the following:
- Overall GPA (all transfer coursework)
- Overall Professional GPA (all transfer business coursework, including ECON)
For detailed admission requirements, please visit these pages:
Student Life and Learning Experiences
Students in the accounting major at the School of Business participate in experiential learning that enhances classroom instruction and supports career development. The School of Business offers opportunities to participate in case competitions, internships, applied projects, and collaborative coursework that mirrors professional accounting environments.
Student organizations such as Beta Alpha Psi provide networking opportunities, leadership development, and exposure to accounting professionals. These experiences, along with KU’s strong network of engaged alumni, help students build professional connections and gain insight into accounting career paths before graduation.
Bachelor’s in Accounting Sample Courses
Students in the business accounting major complete coursework in foundational and advanced accounting concepts. Courses may include:
- Fundamentals of Financial Accounting
- Managerial Accounting
- Intermediate Accounting
- Legal Aspects of Business
For a complete list of courses, visit the KU Catalog.
Bachelor’s in Accounting Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
Applications are open and accepted on a rolling basis.
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this degree in four years.