Bachelor of Science in Accounting

4 Years Online Bachelors Program

Oregon State University

Program Overview

Oregon State University’s Bachelor of Science in Accounting develops skills in financial reporting, taxation, auditing, accounting analytics and managerial decision-making. The program combines accounting specialization with a broad business foundation to prepare students for roles in public accounting, corporate finance, consulting, government and nonprofit organizations.

Curriculum Structure

First Year: Students build a foundation in business, economics, communication and quantitative analysis through courses such as Introduction to Business (BA 101Z), Principles of Microeconomics (ECON 201Z) and Data Analysis Using Microsoft Excel (BA 169Z).

Second Year: Students develop core financial and managerial accounting knowledge through Principles of Financial Accounting (BA 211Z) and Principles of Managerial Accounting (BA 213Z), alongside business law, finance, statistics and organizational behavior.

Third Year: Students progress to specialist accounting subjects such as External Reporting I and II (ACTG 317 and ACTG 318), Cost Management I (ACTG 321) and Accounting Analytics (ACTG 379), while continuing business and professional development courses.

Fourth Year: Advanced study includes External Reporting III (ACTG 319), Taxation I (ACTG 424) and Assurance and Attestation Services (ACTG 427). Students also choose accounting electives such as Advanced Accounting (ACTG 417), IT Auditing (ACTG 420), Advanced Taxation (ACTG 425) or Advanced Audit Analytics (ACTG 428).

Focus Areas: Financial and managerial accounting, external financial reporting, taxation, auditing and assurance, accounting analytics, information systems and business decision-making.

Learning Outcomes: Students learn to prepare financial statements and tax returns, interpret financial information, support planning and performance evaluation, and identify information-technology risks and controls affecting financial systems.

Professional Alignment: The curriculum supports preparation for accounting careers and may provide relevant academic foundations for professional credentials such as the CPA. Certification eligibility depends on the applicable jurisdiction’s education, examination and other requirements.

Reputation and Employability: Oregon State reports an average starting salary of $67,607 for its 2024 accounting graduates. Its College of Business also reports that approximately 450 companies recruit its students each year.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students develop practical accounting skills by applying classroom concepts to financial reporting, auditing, taxation, data analysis, and business decision-making. Internships, career-development activities, professional networking, and international learning opportunities help students strengthen their technical knowledge, communication skills, and workplace readiness.

Internships and Practicum: Students can gain practical experience through approved internships, projects, and practicums, applying accounting principles to real business situations and developing professional experience relevant to future employment.

Accounting Analytics: Students strengthen their ability to interpret financial statements, analyse accounting data, assess business performance, and use quantitative information to support budgeting, planning, and management decisions.

Technology and Data Skills: Coursework involving Microsoft Excel and business analytics helps students organise financial data, perform calculations, analyse trends, and communicate findings to support accurate reporting and informed decision-making.

Professional Development: Career-development activities help students prepare resumes, improve interview and workplace communication skills, explore accounting career paths, and prepare for internships and graduate employment.

Student Organisations: Accounting-related organisations such as Beta Alpha Psi and the Institute of Management Accountants provide opportunities to connect with peers and accounting professionals, participate in professional activities, and learn about industry expectations and career pathways.

Study Abroad: International learning opportunities can expose students to different business environments, accounting practices, and global economic perspectives. Students should confirm current destinations, eligibility, and course availability with the university before planning participation.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The degree prepares graduates for accounting and business roles across public accounting firms, corporations, financial institutions, government agencies, and nonprofit organisations. Oregon State lists employers of accounting graduates that include Deloitte, KPMG, PwC, Baker Tilly, Nike, Intel, and Umpqua Bank.

Career Opportunities:

Staff Accountant: Prepare financial records, reconcile accounts, and support reporting activities.
Auditor: Examine financial statements and internal controls for accuracy and compliance.
Tax Accountant: Prepare tax returns and assist with tax planning and regulatory compliance.
Forensic Accountant: Investigate financial irregularities and support fraud-related reviews.
Financial or Business Analyst: Analyse financial information to support planning and business decisions.

Career Services: The College of Business provides individual career guidance, resume and interview preparation, internship and job-search support, career fairs, workshops, and employer networking opportunities.

Employment Outcomes: Oregon State reports an average starting salary of $67,607 for 2024 accounting graduates. A separate overall job-placement rate for this specific accounting major was not stated in the information reviewed.

Industry Connections: Students can connect with employers through College of Business career fairs, professional events, and accounting-related student organisations. The university reports approximately 450 companies recruiting its students annually.

Accreditation and Certification: The program holds AACSB accreditation. Graduates pursuing CPA or other professional certifications must meet the relevant examination, education, and licensing requirements.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates may pursue a Master of Accountancy, Master of Business Administration, or other postgraduate study in accounting, taxation, finance, or business analytics. Additional education may support advancement into specialist accounting, audit, advisory, and financial management roles.