Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting

Hours: 120 On-Campus Online

About

Fort Hays State University offers a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Accounting designed to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and skills in the field. The program delivers essential training in financial, cost, auditing, tax, and systems accounting, preparing students for successful careers in a wide range of accounting roles.

The BBA in Accounting equips students with the expertise needed to thrive in various sectors, including private industry, government, education, non-profit organizations, and financial institutions. By emphasizing a thorough understanding of accounting principles and practices, the program prepares graduates for diverse professional opportunities in business and industry.

Why pursue a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting at Fort Hays State University?

Pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting at FHSU offers a rigorous academic foundation combined with practical relevance, making it an excellent choice for aspiring accounting professionals. The program is distinguished by a comprehensive curriculum covering all core accounting areas, along with specialized training in fields such as tax accounting, auditing, and systems accounting. This broad scope ensures students are well-prepared to address a wide range of professional challenges, from routine financial reporting to complex regulatory compliance.

The study of accounting also supports students aiming to earn professional certifications like Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), and Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE). To meet the educational requirements for these certifications, students are encouraged to select elective courses strategically. Combined with FHSU’s affordable tuition and high-quality instruction, the BBA in Accounting offers exceptional value, making it a particularly attractive option for students seeking a cost-effective yet comprehensive education in accounting.

Who is this program for?

Our BBA in Accounting is designed to serve a diverse group of students, from those just beginning their journey in accounting to professionals seeking to strengthen their credentials. The program is especially beneficial for:

Students pursuing careers in the accounting field
New professionals seeking entry-level positions
International students seeking quality education in accounting

Learning Outcomes

The Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting is designed to develop a strong foundation in accounting, along with critical thinking and effective communication skills. The program’s learning outcomes ensure that graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of the accounting profession and succeed in a variety of roles. Through rigorous coursework and practical application, students gain a deep understanding of accounting principles and build the analytical skills essential for a successful career in the field.

Competence in Discipline

This skill requires a solid understanding of U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and cost accounting techniques. It involves applying accounting standards to real-world situations, from routine transactions to complex financial reporting.

Effective Communication

In accounting, effective communication involves presenting information and producing reports with clarity and professionalism. It includes adapting financial data and insights to suit the audience’s level of understanding, whether they are stakeholders, clients, or team members.

Critical/Analytical Thinking

Critical and analytical thinking in accounting involves the ability to evaluate financial information and use it to solve complex business challenges. This skill includes identifying underlying trends, anticipating potential issues, and developing strategic solutions grounded in accurate accounting data.

Ethical Decision-Making in Accounting

Graduates will demonstrate a solid understanding of ethical standards in the accounting profession. This includes recognizing ethical dilemmas, applying ethical principles in decision-making, and maintaining integrity and accountability in financial reporting and auditing.

Real-World Applications

The Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting places a strong emphasis on real-world applications, combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills. The curriculum includes simulations and case studies that mirror real business scenarios, helping students apply accounting principles in professional contexts and prepare for roles in public accounting, corporate, government, and nonprofit sectors.

Students are also encouraged to complete internships with accounting firms and local businesses, gaining hands-on experience and building professional networks. These opportunities allow students to develop workplace skills, manage financial data accurately, and make informed decisions under the guidance of industry professionals.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

The BBA in Accounting program is designed to evolve with industry trends and technological advancements, ensuring that graduates enter the workforce both current and competitive. The curriculum emphasizes the use of modern technology to streamline processes, improve accuracy, and perform in-depth financial analysis. By staying aligned with innovations in the field, the program equips students with the digital skills essential to today’s accounting profession.

FHSU’s faculty actively integrates emerging trends into their instruction, whether related to changes in tax regulations, advancements in auditing technology, or new approaches in financial management. This forward-thinking and adaptive teaching approach ensures that graduates are not only prepared to navigate the evolving accounting landscape but also capable of leading changes within it.

Hands-on Activities

The BBA in Accounting at FHSU prioritizes experiential learning through hands-on activities that simulate essential accounting tasks from the start of the program. This approach develops practical skills and confidence, ensuring students are well-prepared and capable of managing complex accounting responsibilities in the workplace.

Additionally, FHSU encourages involvement in student-led accounting organizations. Participation in these groups enhances students’ resumes and cultivates valuable soft skills, including teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving, all of which are critical for a successful career in accounting.

What You’ll Learn:

Essential financial accounting techniques
Managerial accounting skills
Tax preparation and planning
Auditing and assurance principles
Accounting information systems management

How You’ll Learn:

Hands-on accounting projects
Real-world case studies and applications
Elective courses for specialized knowledge
Direct engagement with business practices

Courses

The Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting offers a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum designed to prepare students for diverse careers in accounting. The program provides a strong foundation in accounting principles, practices, and applications, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for success in the professional world.

ACCT 303: Cost Accounting

This course emphasizes the use of accounting data for (1) planning and controlling routine operations, (2) non-routine decisions, policy making, and long-range planning, and (3) inventory valuation and income determination.

ACCT 360: Accounting Information Systems

In this course, students explore the design, implementation, and evaluation of processing methods for accounting information, including computing, managerial, and auditing considerations.

ACCT 412: Auditing

Procedures and practices of the public accountant involve verifying accounts and supplementary data, as well as receiving training in the preparation and analysis of reports that are suitable for the specific purpose for which the external audit is conducted. The emphasis will primarily focus on adhering to U.S. GAAS standards and complying with the pronouncements of the AICPA and the PCAOB.

Discover the full Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Graduates with a BBA in Accounting from Fort Hays State University are highly sought after in the job market due to their comprehensive training and readiness for a variety of accounting roles. The following overview highlights several common career paths pursued by alumni, illustrating the diverse opportunities available. Each career option is accompanied by detailed insights into the roles and responsibilities, emphasizing the practical application of skills developed through the program.

Corporate Accountant

Corporate accountants manage companies' financial operations, specializing in tax strategies, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance. They play a key role in optimizing economic performance, overseeing budgets, and preparing reports to guide leadership decisions. These professionals collaborate closely with internal and external stakeholders to maintain financial health.

Government Accountant

Government accountants play a vital role in managing public funds and navigating complex fiscal policies unique to government entities. They ensure efficient, lawful use of public money and oversee budgeting, financial reporting, and auditing for government agencies.

Management Accountant

Management accountants analyze financial data to support strategic business decisions. They provide insights on cost management, investments, and efficiency, helping senior management improve profitability and guide long-term strategies. They often present financial trends and forecasts in executive meetings, influencing company policies and operations.

Financial Analyst

Graduates of FHSU’s BBA in Accounting are well-prepared for financial analyst roles. These professionals analyze economic data, financial statements, and market trends to guide investment decisions, enhance profitability, and manage risks.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,055.95* (on-campus) or $3,975.75* (online) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

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Related Programs

Fort Hays State University offers several related programs that complement the BBA in Accounting, providing students with opportunities to broaden their expertise. These programs enhance professional skills and open new career pathways, appealing to both current accounting students and those considering the field.

FAQ

What certification exams can I prepare for through the BBA in Accounting?

Students can prepare for CPA, CMA, CGMA, CFE, CIA, CISA, and EA exams.

Can you be an accountant with a Business Administration Degree?

Yes, it is possible to become an accountant with a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree, provided the degree includes a major in accounting. A BBA in Accounting offers a broad understanding of business practices along with specialized training in financial reporting, cost accounting, and taxation—skills essential for many accounting roles. However, to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or obtain other professional certifications, additional state-specific requirements may apply, such as completing a required number of accounting credits or extra business courses.

What is included in the typical curriculum for a BBA in Accounting?

A typical accounting curriculum combines core business courses with specialized accounting education. Students begin with foundational business subjects such as economics, business law, marketing, and management to develop a solid grasp of business operations and strategy. They then progress to focused accounting courses, starting with fundamentals like financial and managerial accounting, and advancing to more complex topics including intermediate accounting, auditing, accounting information systems, and taxation. These courses cover the detailed aspects of financial statements, regulatory compliance, and ethical standards, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for professional accounting careers.

Information about the Department of Economics, Finance, and Accounting

FHSU’s Department of Economics, Finance, and Accounting provides expertise in effectively and ethically managing money in both public and private sectors for a highly versatile, in-demand career path. Our department provides highly sought-after degrees in accounting, finance, and international business and economics. These programs are backed by career-centered internship opportunities, in-depth mentoring by faculty and staff, and flexible online degrees. Our programs prepare students for in-demand jobs, with courses that span the entire business landscape. The Robbins Banking Institute further enhances career preparation in the area of banking, offering a practical, real-time curriculum for rewarding careers. Our faculty, who are experts in their field and student-focused, support students to maximize individual growth.

Student Organizations

While earning your degree is your primary goal, college offers much more than just attending classes. Get involved in extracurricular activities that help you develop leadership skills, learn more about your chosen career, and make a difference in your community.

Accounting Club: This club offers a valuable opportunity for accounting students to connect with peers and prepare for their future careers. It aims to help members explore the various opportunities available in the field of accounting and introduce them to potential employers. Meetings frequently feature guest speakers who hold accounting degrees and are actively working in the profession.
Student Chapter of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners: The ACFE organization brings together students from many disciplines to promote the detection and prevention of fraud in business.
Economics Club: The FHSU Economics Club is available to all students regardless of their major or knowledge of economics with the goal of promoting the study of and interest in economics. The signature activity of the club is to create a “Student Price Index” through a collaborative research project on FHSU student economic expectations. The club members typically take a trip to a major city in the U.S. every year.
Finance Club: The FHSU Finance Club strives to assist in the professional, educational, and social development of college students interested in finance. The club also encourages interaction between the business sector, faculty, and students at FHSU. As part of club operations, they bring in speakers and take trips around the U.S. to learn more about the finance field.
International Business Club: This club strives to improve students’ awareness and understanding of global business practices and economic issues. These issues are explored from diverse perspectives. Ultimately, the club aims to develop global citizen-leaders by enhancing students’ professional, educational, and social development through its discussions, activities, and international travel experiences.

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