Penn State offers three degrees in accounting, which may be completed at different locations.

Accounting at Penn State University Park
This program may be started at any campus and is completed at Penn State University Park.

Accountants help individuals, corporations, and government agencies plan and oversee financial operations. Accountants are expected to hold business matters in confidence, be dependable and of high integrity, and be able to work well with people. Industrial accountants seek to become business executives with positions of major fiscal responsibility (financial vice president, treasurer, comptroller, or budget director). Public accountants engage in auditing, tax planning, and consulting. There are many opportunities with state and federal government agencies, including the General Accounting Offices (GAO), the Internal Revenue Service, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

The B.S. in Accounting is offered by Penn State's Smeal College of Business.

Accounting at Penn State Erie
This program may be started at any campus and is completed at Penn State Erie.

Through the Accounting major at Penn State's Behrend College, students can acquire integrated knowledge and skills in accounting and information management. They can prepare for positions in public accounting firms, corporations, and government, where accounting skills are essential. In addition, the major provides the necessary academic training for students interested in administrative responsibilities in the area of accounting. The major meets the requirements for taking the CPA and CMA professional examinations. Accountants are highly sought after in virtually every type of business, including manufacturing, retailing, banking, finance, and public utilities. Local, state, and federal agencies provide opportunities in governmental accounting.

The B.S. in Accounting is offered by Penn State's Behrend College.

Accounting at Penn State Harrisburg
This program may be started at any campus and is completed at Penn State Harrisburg.

This major helps students prepare for careers in auditing and public accounting, industrial and managerial accounting, and governmental and nonpublic accounting. It also provides a sound background for graduate studies in accounting or related fields. Students who complete the prescribed courses and earn a B.S. degree will fulfill the academic requirements to sit for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) examination in Pennsylvania. Other states have different requirements. Graduates may also elect to pursue other professional certifications, including Certified Managerial Accountant (CMA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFA), and Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM).This program has received AACSB accreditation.

The B.S. in Accounting is offered by Penn State's Capital College.

Please note: The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. Please consult the most recent Degree Programs Bulletin for more detailed information.