Build the technical, analytical and communication skills to help organizations interpret financial information, manage risk, meet reporting requirements and make informed decisions. JWU’s Bachelor of Science in Accounting at our Providence Campus combines accounting theory and business fundamentals with hands-on learning in taxation, auditing, accounting information systems and business analytics.
Through internships, the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, the JWU Wildcat Investment & Finance Initiative and other experiential opportunities, students can apply what they learn beyond the classroom while preparing for accounting careers across public, private, government and nonprofit organizations.
Accounting at a Glance
Sample subjects: Federal taxation, auditing, cost accounting, accounting information systems and business analytics
Experiential opportunities: Internships, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA), study abroad and the JWU Wildcat Investment & Finance Initiative
Accelerated option: Eligible students can begin graduate coursework during their senior year through JWU’s J2 program
One course with the Arts & Sciences elective attribute (EASC)
Free Electives
15 credits selected from 1000-4999 numbered offerings within the university
15
Total Credits
120.0
Gain Hands-On Accounting and Auditing Experience
Develop accounting skills through experiences that connect coursework with real organizations and financial challenges.
JWU Accounting students can:
Help community members prepare their taxes through the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program.
Pursue internships with accounting firms, businesses and organizations.
Participate in the JWU Wildcat Investment & Finance Initiative.
Apply elective credit toward internships, study abroad and other experiential opportunities.
Learn from faculty with professional accounting experience and industry credentials.
Accounting Student Experience: Balancing More Than Numbers
Hailey Erickson ’23, 24 MBA gained valuable skills helping people prepare their taxes in JWU’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program and working with JWU’s JWU Wildcat Investment & Finance Initiative — plus got a head start on her MBA through JWU’s accelerated master’s program. She reflects on how her experience as a JWU Accounting student-athlete helped prepare her for her future.
Careers with an Accounting Degree
A bachelor’s degree in accounting can support entry-level opportunities in public accounting, private industry, government and nonprofit organizations.
Some professions may require additional study, background checks, certifications, licenses, exams and/or experience as required qualifications for employment. Students are responsible for verifying that they can meet the employment requirements of potential employers.
Potential career paths include:
Staff accountant
Tax accountant
Auditor
Management accountant
Financial analyst
Budget analyst
Forensic accountant
Tax examiner or revenue agent
At JWU, I got to meet employers firsthand, did an internship, got my résumé and went through many layers. I was fortunate to have the first job lined up right after school. I like to think I was equally fortunate and prepared, and I expect that track to continue upward from here. I’ve gotten comfortable with saying I don’t know what’s next, but I know it’s something I’ll be good at, ready for and excited about.”
Marquis Cooper ’14, manager of global internal audit at Boston Scientific
Accounting Internship Experience at Withum
What did Abigail Rendock ’27 find most interesting about her tax internship at Withum’s Providence office? The corporate environment, teamwork with students from other schools, training on new topics, working under a partner of the firm and doing work she otherwise wouldn’t do until after graduation.
Get your master’s faster through JWU’s signature accelerated master’s program, J2, by starting on coursework toward an MBA or M.S. degree your senior year — saving you time and money.
Study accounting in Rhode Island’s capital while building connections through faculty, student organizations, community work and internships. JWU students can apply their skills outside the classroom through experiences such as preparing tax returns with VITA and interning with local and regional organizations.
What do you learn in JWU’s Accounting bachelor’s program?
Students build a foundation in accounting theory, business and communication while studying subjects such as federal taxation, auditing, cost accounting, managerial accounting, accounting information systems and business analytics.
How long does it take to earn the Accounting B.S.?
The Providence Accounting B.S. is designed as a four-year program. Actual completion time may vary based on transfer credits, course load and individual academic planning.
What can you do with an accounting degree?
Accounting graduates can pursue opportunities in public accounting firms, private businesses, government agencies and nonprofit organizations. Potential roles include staff accountant, auditor, tax accountant, management accountant, financial analyst and budget analyst. Some positions require additional credentials or experience.
Does JWU offer hands-on accounting experience?
Yes. Students may gain experience through internships, the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, the JWU Wildcat Investment & Finance Initiative, study abroad and other experiential learning opportunities. Eligibility and availability may vary.
Can JWU’s Accounting degree help prepare me to become a CPA?
A Bachelor of Science in Accounting can provide foundational accounting and business education for students considering CPA licensure. Requirements vary by state and may include specific coursework, examinations and professional experience. Students should work with an academic advisor and review current requirements in the state where they intend to become licensed.
Can Accounting students earn a master’s degree faster?
Eligible JWU students can begin graduate coursework during their senior year through the university’s J2 accelerated master’s program. Students should speak with an advisor about eligibility, available graduate programs and how courses may apply.
Is JWU’s Accounting degree available online?
JWU also offers a separate online Bachelor of Science in Accounting for students seeking an online format.
