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 designed for students pursuing careers in public accounting. The program provides comprehensive training in financial, cost, auditing, tax, and systems accounting, preparing students for success in the field.
A key feature of this program is the ability for students to complete the 150-credit-hour requirement for the CPA exam at the undergraduate level. Typically, students earn 120 credit hours with their bachelor’s degree, and this program bridges the additional 30 credits needed, often eliminating the need for graduate coursework. This unique option helps students save time and reduce educational expenses, distinguishing FHSU in the field of 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) offers distinct advantages. The curriculum includes all essential accounting courses required to sit for the CPA exam within the undergraduate program, a rare offering in the state. This provides students with significant cost savings and improved job readiness compared to those who must complete additional graduate-level credits.
Additionally, the program’s strong reputation is well-recognized by the Kansas business community, which actively recruits its graduates. The rigorous and high-quality training prepares students thoroughly for the challenges of the accounting profession.
Who is this program for?
This program is designed for individuals committed to excelling in accounting. Whether pursuing certification as a public accountant, focusing on governmental or nonprofit accounting, or integrating accounting with technology, the program provides the essential tools and training needed to succeed in these challenging fields.
- Students aiming for the CPA qualification
- Those interested in diverse accounting fields
- Individuals looking for a cost-effective path to a comprehensive accounting education
Real-World Applications
The program’s curriculum emphasizes real-world applications, with students engaging in practical accounting tasks from their first course to reinforce theoretical knowledge. This hands-on approach enhances learning and prepares students for the professional challenges they will face. Additionally, elective courses offer opportunities to specialize in areas such as governmental accounting or advanced tax, providing skills tailored to specific sectors within the accounting field.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
The faculty has actively revised the curriculum to align with the CPA Evolution 2024 changes. This ensures that FHSU accounting graduates meet current requirements and are well-prepared for the CPA exam. Ongoing faculty development ensures that course content remains current, incorporating the latest industry standards and technologies into the curriculum.
Hands-on Activities
Fort Hays State University emphasizes experiential learning through hands-on involvement in accounting processes and real-world problem-solving. Many courses incorporate practical components, and students frequently participate in internships. Additionally, students have opportunities to engage in research, attend conferences, and pursue professional development through various student organizations. These experiences play a crucial role in developing the practical skills essential for success in the accounting profession.
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) encompasses essential subjects, including financial accounting, cost accounting, taxation, accounting information systems, and auditing. This foundation is complemented by elective courses that enable students to explore specialized areas in greater depth.
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 examines budgeting and the operation of fund accounts for state, municipal, and other public institutions—accounting control as a means of effecting improved administration of a public enterprise.
Discover the full Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting (Public Accounting) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Completing the BBA in Accounting (Public Accounting) opens a wide range of professional opportunities. Graduates are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of the accounting profession with both proficiency and ethical integrity.
Public Accountant
A public accountant offers services such as tax preparation, auditing, and consulting to individuals, businesses, and government agencies. Many hold a CPA certification, demonstrating their expertise and commitment to professional standards.
Corporate Accountant
Corporate accountants manage financial operations across industries, develop processes, strategize financial management, and ensure accurate reporting. They play a key role in driving business growth and efficiency.
Government Accountant
Government accountants manage public sector finances, overseeing budgeting, fund allocation, and compliance with regulations. They play a vital role in ensuring financial integrity and accountability.
Nonprofit Accountant
Nonprofit accountants manage financial operations, develop fundraising strategies, and ensure practices align with the organization’s mission. They help ensure funds are used efficiently and transparently, supporting goals and maintaining donor trust.
Auditor
Auditors review financial records to verify their accuracy and ensure compliance with relevant regulations. They identify discrepancies, fraud, and areas for improvement, playing a key role in ensuring transparency and trust in financial reporting.
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) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/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 range of programs that complement the BBA in Accounting (Public Accounting), allowing students to expand their expertise and enhance their career prospects. Whether focused on finance, management, information systems, or other fields, these programs provide valuable skills applicable across the dynamic business landscape.
- BBA in Finance
- BBA in Management Information Systems
- BBA in Marketing
- BBA in International Business and Economics
- BBA in Management
This program uniquely allows students to meet the 150-credit-hour CPA exam requirement within their undergraduate studies. This eliminates the need for extra graduate coursework, saving time and costs while enhancing graduates’ professional readiness and competitiveness.
Our program thoroughly prepares students by covering all key areas: governmental, financial, auditing, cost, tax, and systems. It offers a solid foundation in both theory and practice across these fields.
Yes, the BBA in Accounting (Public Accounting) includes key courses like advanced accounting, advanced tax procedure, and governmental accounting, along with practical experience tailored to the field.
The program prepares students for careers in public firms, corporate accounting, government, and nonprofits, and specifically readies them for the CPA exam, a key credential in public accounting.
Information about the Department of Economics, Finance and Accounting
The Department of Economics, Finance and Accounting at FHSU equips students with the knowledge and skills to manage financial resources effectively and ethically across both public and private sectors. The department offers highly sought-after degree programs in accounting, finance, and international business and economics—each designed to prepare students for versatile and in-demand career paths.
Students benefit from career-focused internship opportunities, personalized mentoring from expert faculty, and the flexibility of fully online degree options. The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of the business world, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to navigate a competitive job market.
Additionally, the Robbins Banking Institute enhances professional development in the banking sector by offering a practical, real-time curriculum tailored for rewarding careers in finance and banking. With a strong emphasis on student success and growth, the department’s faculty provides dedicated support to help each student reach their full potential.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- Accounting Club: This club provides accounting students with valuable opportunities to connect with peers, explore career paths, and prepare for professional success. The club helps members gain insight into the diverse opportunities within the accounting field and facilitates introductions to potential employers. Regular meetings often feature guest speakers, professionals with accounting degrees, who share real-world experiences and career advice.
- Student Chapter of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE): The ACFE organization brings together students from a variety of disciplines to promote awareness, detection, and prevention of fraud in the business world.
- Economics Club: The FHSU Economics Club is open to all students, regardless of major or prior knowledge of economics. Its mission is to promote interest in and understanding of economic concepts through engaging activities and discussions. A hallmark project of the club is the creation of the “Student Price Index,” a collaborative research initiative that explores FHSU students’ economic expectations. Each year, club members also have an opportunity to travel to a major U.S. city, enhancing their academic and professional development through real-world experiences.
- Finance Club: The FHSU Finance Club is dedicated to supporting the professional, educational, and social development of students with an interest in finance. The club fosters meaningful connections among students, faculty, and professionals in the business and finance sectors. Through guest speakers and educational trips across the U.S., members gain valuable insights into the finance industry and explore potential career opportunities.
- International Business Club: This club aims to enhance students’ understanding of global business practices and economic issues from a variety of cultural and international perspectives. Through discussions, activities, and international travel experiences, the club fosters professional, educational, and social development. Its ultimate goal is to cultivate globally minded citizen-leaders prepared to navigate and contribute to an increasingly interconnected world.
The Tiger Money Mentors Program, housed within the Department of Economics, Finance and Accounting at FHSU, is led by a faculty expert in financial planning. This initiative offers free, confidential financial guidance provided by a team of trained, financially knowledgeable student mentors dedicated to helping their peers manage personal finances effectively.
Through one-on-one sessions, Tiger Money Mentors assist students with a wide range of financial topics, including:
- Organizing personal finances and managing expenses
- Creating and maintaining a realistic budget
- Developing plans to achieve both short- and long-term financial goals
- Understanding student loans and exploring repayment options
- Reviewing job offers and employee benefits
- Obtaining and reviewing credit reports
- And more!
- Bachelor's
- On-Campus
