Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting (Public Accounting)
Hours: 120 On-Campus
About
The Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Accounting (Public Accounting) at Fort Hays State University is strategically designed for students aiming to excel in public accounting. This program equips students with comprehensive knowledge and skills essential for success in financial, cost, auditing, tax, and systems accounting.
One of the standout features of this program is the opportunity to complete the BBA in Accounting (Public Accounting) at the undergraduate level. This allows students, who typically graduate with 120 credit hours, to bridge the 30-credit hour gap needed to fulfill the 150-credit hour requirement for the CPA exam immediately after their bachelor’s degree. This distinctive opportunity often eliminates the necessity for additional graduate coursework, thus saving students time and financial resources. It’s a unique offering that sets FHSU apart in accounting education.
Why pursue a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting (Public Accounting) at Fort Hays State University?
Pursuing a BBA in Accounting (Public Accounting) at FHSU offers distinct advantages. Our curriculum includes the essential accounting courses needed to sit for the CPA exam as part of the undergraduate program—a rarity in the state. This provides our students with significant cost savings and enhanced job readiness compared to those who must seek additional credits at the graduate level.
Moreover, the strength of our program is recognized and valued by the business community across Kansas, which frequently recruits our graduates. The high quality and rigorous nature of our training prepares students exceptionally well for the demands of the accounting profession.
Who is this program for?
The BBA in Accounting (Public Accounting) program at Fort Hays State University is tailored for individuals driven to excel in accounting. Whether you aim to become a certified public accountant, are interested in governmental or nonprofit accounting, or want to merge accounting with technology, this program offers the tools and training needed to succeed in these complex and demanding careers.
- Students aiming for CPA qualification
- Those interested in diverse accounting fields
- Individuals looking for a cost-effective path to a comprehensive accounting education
Learning Outcomes
The Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Accounting (Public Accounting) at Fort Hays State University ensures that graduates emerge as highly competent professionals ready to enter the accounting field. Each learning outcome is designed to ensure that students meet and exceed the contemporary demands of various accounting roles, providing them with the necessary skills to adapt and thrive in an evolving business environment.
Graduate Competence in Discipline
Accounting graduates are expected to have a firm grasp of and practical application of fundamental accounting principles and practices, including generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), cost accounting, tax problem solving, information processing, and audit practices. This competence ensures they can handle detailed financial tasks, adapt to various accounting challenges, and maintain accurate financial records across different contexts and industries.
Effective Communication
Graduates in accounting must demonstrate the ability to deliver clear, persuasive, and well-structured oral and written communications. They must use appropriate accounting and business terminology to convey complex financial data and interpretations to diverse audiences, including non-experts. This skill is crucial as it ensures clarity and effective decision-making within a business context, underscoring its direct impact on the success of financial operations.
Critical/Analytical Thinking
This competency involves critically analyzing financial information and utilizing accounting data to solve complex business problems. Graduates are trained to integrate analytical skills with accounting knowledge to assess financial situations, identify potential issues, and develop strategic solutions that benefit the organization economically and operationally.
Ethical Financial Decision-Making
Ethical standards are paramount in accounting education. Graduates must show a deep understanding of and commitment to ethical practices in all accounting activities. This includes maintaining integrity and transparency in financial reporting, adhering to legal standards, and making decisions that uphold the trust and financial stewardship expected of professionals in their field.
Real-World Applications
Our program's curriculum strongly emphasizes real-world applications. You engage directly with practical accounting tasks from your first accounting class, solidifying theoretical knowledge through practical experience. This approach enhances learning and prepares you for your professional challenges.
The program also includes elective courses that allow students to specialize in areas of interest, such as governmental and institutional accounting or advanced tax. These courses provide tailored skills directly applicable to specific sectors within the accounting field.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Our faculty has actively revised the curriculum to reflect changes that occurred with CPA Evolution 2024. This proactive approach ensures that FHSU accounting graduates are current with today's requirements and well-prepared for the CPA exam.
Continuous education among our faculty members ensures that course content is always at the cutting edge, incorporating the latest industry standards and technologies into the classroom.
Hands-on Activities
FHSU emphasizes experiential learning through direct involvement in accounting processes and real-life problem-solving. Many of our courses include experiential learning components, and students often participate in internships during their studies.
Additionally, our students can engage in research, conference participation, and professional development activities through various student organizations. These experiences are invaluable in developing the practical skills needed to succeed in any accounting environment.
What You’ll Learn:
- Mastery of U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)
- Advanced accounting techniques
- Comprehensive federal tax problem-solving
- Effective accounting information processing
- Audit and assurance best practices
How You’ll Learn:
- Engage with intensive accounting coursework
- Hands-on projects and real-world applications
- Interaction with experienced faculty
- Access to a wide range of accounting electives
- Opportunities for practical internships
The core curriculum of the BBA in Accounting (Public Accounting) covers a broad spectrum of essential subjects, including financial accounting, cost accounting, taxation, accounting information systems, and auditing. This is complemented by a selection of elective courses that allow students to dive deeper into specialized areas of interest.
ACCT 601: Advanced Accounting
In this course, emphasis is placed on consolidated statements. Consideration is also given to foreign branches and subsidiaries.
ACCT 610: Advanced Tax Procedure
In this course, students study the major aspects of federal income taxes as they pertain to partnerships, corporations, estates and trusts.
ACCT 406: Governmental and Institutional Accounting
This course is a study of budgeting and operation of fund accounts for state, municipal, and other public institutions. Accounting control as a means of effecting improved administration of public enterprise.
Discover the full Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting (Public Accounting) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Embarking on a career after completing the BBA in Accounting (Public Accounting) from Fort Hays State University opens many professional opportunities. Our graduates are equipped to navigate the complexities of the accounting profession with proficiency and ethical integrity.
Public Accountant
A public accountant provides various accounting services, including tax preparation, financial auditing, and consulting. They cater to individual clients, multiple businesses, and governmental agencies, assisting in managing finances in compliance with legal standards. Public accountants often hold certifications such as CPA (Certified Public Accountant), which signifies their expertise and adherence to professional standards.
Corporate Accountant
Corporate accountants oversee and manage corporations' financial operations, spanning multiple industries. Their tasks include developing internal financial processes, strategizing for financial management, and ensuring accurate financial reporting. They are critical in shaping financial strategies that drive business growth and operational efficiency.
Government Accountant
Government accountants specialize in managing and supervising the financial operations of public sector entities. Their primary responsibilities include ensuring public funds' accurate allocation and expenditure, overseeing budgeting processes, and ensuring all financial operations comply with government regulations. They are crucial in maintaining public financial integrity and accountability.
Nonprofit Accountant
Nonprofit accountants oversee the financial health of nonprofit organizations. They handle day-to-day financial management, develop fundraising strategies, and ensure financial practices align with the nonprofit's mission. Their role is pivotal in ensuring that funds are used efficiently and transparently, supporting the organization’s goals, and maintaining donor trust.
Auditor
Auditors conduct external and internal reviews of financial records to verify their accuracy and to ensure compliance with applicable standards and regulations. Auditors assess financial practices and records to detect discrepancies, fraud, or areas needing improvement. Their role is essential in maintaining transparency and trust in financial reporting across all organizations.
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 $2,961.90* (On-Campus)* per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the undergraduate resident/regional tuition rate ($197.46/credit hour) for on-campus 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.
Related Programs
Fort Hays State University offers a variety of programs that complement the BBA in Accounting (Public Accounting), allowing students to broaden their expertise and career opportunities. Whether your interest lies in finance, management, information systems, or another field, these related programs provide valuable, highly beneficial skills in the versatile business world.
- BBA in Finance
- BBA in Management Information Systems
- BBA in Marketing
- BBA in International Business and Economics
- BBA in Management
The BBA in Accounting (Public Accounting) at Fort Hays State University stands out primarily for its comprehensive pathway to becoming CPA exam-eligible at the undergraduate level. Unlike many other programs that require additional graduate-level coursework to meet the 150-credit-hour requirement for CPA eligibility, FHSU allows students to achieve this milestone within their undergraduate studies. This unique feature provides significant cost savings and accelerates professional readiness, giving our graduates a competitive edge in the job market.
Our program leaves no stone unturned in preparing students for a career in public accounting. It covers all key areas, including governmental, financial, auditing, cost, tax, and systems. The curriculum provides a thorough foundation in each area, ensuring that students understand the theoretical and practical aspects of public accounting.
The BBA in Accounting (Public Accounting) program at Fort Hays State University is about more than just theoretical knowledge. It includes several specific courses and practical experiences directly related to the field. Critical courses such as advanced accounting, advanced tax procedure, and governmental and institutional accounting are integral to the concentration.
Completing the BBA in Accounting (Public Accounting) program opens career opportunities in various sectors, including public firms, corporate accounting, government, and nonprofit organizations. This program prepares students specifically for the CPA exam, which is essential for careers in public accounting.
Department Information
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.
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.
The Tiger Money Mentors Program is housed in the Department of Economics, Finance, and Accounting and directed by a financial planning faculty member. This program provides free financial guidance from students you can trust. This is a group of trained, money-savvy students passionate about helping you take care of your finances. They offer one-on-one sessions to answer your financial questions on a variety of financial topics, including:
- Organizing your finances and spending
- Creating and sticking to a budget
- Developing a plan to reach your short- and long-term financial goals
- Understanding your student loans and repayment options
- Reviewing job offers and employee benefits
- Obtaining and reviewing your credit report
- And more!
- Bachelors
- On-Campus
