New 150-hour program combines accounting and finance and positions students to pursue CPA licensure
Future certified public accountants can take advantage of a new state-approved bachelor's program at Nazareth, earning a double major in accounting and finance, completing the required 150 credits to pursue licensure as a certified public accountant (CPA), and gaining additional valuable skills — all in four years.
"The role of the CPA is rapidly changing. The additional course work in data analytics, programming and accounting information systems will help students gain skills and competencies required in the CPA profession," says Eileen Milliken Beiter, MBA, CPA, CGMA, the accounting program director.
She added: "This program creates ease and flexibility for undergraduate students to earn a double major while completing the 150 credit hour educational component required for licensure." The program is part of the Nazareth College School of Business and Leadership.
Daniel Jacob '19, CPA, pursued 150 credits in four years at Nazareth before the formal program existed. "This program is a great opportunity to earn all of the required credits to become a CPA," says Jacob, who went on to a senior audit and assurance position at Deloitte and Touche LLP. "From my experience, it is more important to focus on getting a CPA license than a master's, and doing such in 4 years is certainly an advantage. The coursework and internship experience will prepare you well as you launch your career and beyond."
While at Nazareth, Jacob completed an internship at Deloitte as well as a finance internship at Excellus BlueCross BlueShield.
Students can now choose either a traditional 120-credit degree or the 150-credit double major with finance.
Nazareth's accounting program emphasizes collaboration and prepares students to be versatile critical thinkers, prepared for wide-ranging roles in international trade, mergers and acquisitions, business development, economic forecasting, corporate accounting, or general ledger bookkeeping. Graduates are skilled problem solvers, able to address economics, finance, management, marketing, ethics, technology, and global issues. Graduates have high job placement rates and are well received in graduate programs.
For More Information
Julie Long | Chief PR Officer | jlong2@naz.edu | (585) 389-2456 | (585) 781-8186 (cell)
Nazareth University is an inclusive community of inspired learners, educators, and changemakers who for nearly 100 years have been driven by a bold commitment to action, empathy, equity, and leading innovation for the common good. Impact experiences are at the heart of a Nazareth education, preparing each student to discover within themselves the potential to cultivate positive change in their life's work, in any career field, and in a world that is constantly evolving and infinitely interconnected.
Our broad academic offerings present a range of study options typical of larger universities, yet achieved in our supportive campus culture. Nearly 2,100 undergrad and 600 graduate students enroll in degree and certificate programs and engage in collaborative, transformative learning experiences, preparing for the professions and society of today and tomorrow. In a learning community that purposefully integrates liberal arts and professional programs, Nazareth University graduates are able to launch a lifetime of impactful leadership in communities and workplaces near and far.
Daniel Jacob '19, CPA, pursued 150 credits in four years at Nazareth before the formal program existed and went on to a senior audit and assurance position at Deloitte and Touche LLP.