Accounting, B.S.B.A.
Accounting
Program Overview
Earning a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting degree can significantly boost your career prospects. The Accounting major not only prepares students to sit for and pass the CPA exam but also includes all the required courses to meet the West Virginia and surrounding state licensing requirements. With CPA preparation materials embedded within program courses, you’ll be well-equipped to excel. The program offers opportunities for real-world experiences via internships and courses delivered in both online and on-ground formats. Our faculty bring real-world industry experience and valuable contacts into the classroom, enhancing your learning experience. Additionally, the Accounting program complements and supports many other majors, improving job placement opportunities. Start your journey today with an Accounting degree and transform your professional future.
Program Type: Major
Program Level: Undergraduate
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
College: Gary E. West College of Business
Program Duration: 4 Years
Courses and Curriculum
It's a Major Thing: Accounting
West Liberty student Cassidy Simonson gives an inside look at what it’s like to be an Accounting student.
Why West Liberty?
I chose to attend West Liberty University because of the small campus environment and the soccer program. I enjoy the fact that there aren’t too many distractions around the university, which allows me to focus on my studies and soccer. Having a low ratio between professors and students was also very important for me as I much prefer being in smaller classes rather than large lectures.
Careers
Accountants and auditors prepare and examine financial records.
Most accountants and auditors work full time. Overtime hours are typical at certain periods of the year, such as for quarterly audits or during tax season.
A bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field is typically required to become an accountant or auditor. Completing certification in a specific field of accounting, such as becoming a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA), may improve job prospects.
The median annual wage for accountants and auditors was $79,880 in May 2023.
Loan officers evaluate, authorize, or recommend approval of loan applications.
Most loan officers are employed by commercial banks, credit unions, mortgage companies, and other financial institutions. Most loan officers work full time, and some work more than 40 hours per week. Except for consumer loan officers, who spend most of their time in offices, these workers may travel to visit clients.
Loan officers typically need a bachelor’s degree and on-the-job training. Mortgage loan officers must be licensed.
The median annual wage for loan officers was $69,990 in May 2023.
Employment of loan officers is projected to grow 3 percent from 2022 to 2032, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
Financial analysts guide businesses and individuals in decisions about expending
Financial analysts work in offices. Most work full time, and some work more than 40 hours per week.
Financial analysts typically need a bachelor’s degree to enter the occupation.
The median annual wage for financial and investment analysts was $99,010 in May 2023.
The median annual wage for financial risk specialists was $106,090 in May 2023.
Personal financial advisors provide advice to help individuals manage their money and plan for their financial future. Personal financial advisors typically need a bachelor’s degree to enter the occupation. A master’s degree and certification may improve chances for advancement.
The median annual wage for personal financial advisors was $99,580 in May 2023.
Employment of personal financial advisors is projected to grow 13 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks produce financial records for organizations and check financial records for accuracy.
Bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks work in offices and may do site visits. Some work part time.
How to Become a Bookkeeping, Accounting, or Auditing Clerk
Bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks typically need some postsecondary education to enter the occupation. They also learn some of their skills on the job.
The median annual wage for bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks was $47,440 in May 2023.
Employment of bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks is projected to decline 6 percent from 2022 to 2032.
Despite declining employment, about 183,900 openings for bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks are projected each year, on average, over the decade. All of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
Source: U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook
The Hilltop Advantage
As you ponder college choices, consider the Gary E. West College of Business value proposition: Business specializations that suit your interests, high-quality accredited curriculum, dedicated faculty, a professional advisor and placement coordinator, business student organizations, advanced technology, and alumni support – all yours at attractive tuition rates that are hard to beat, in-state or out-of-state.
Hands-On Learning
The Gary E. West College of Business at West Liberty University emphasizes hands-on learning that culminates in capstone presentations that showcase your skills and knowledge. We encourage and support student participation in internships that allow you to evaluate career choices while acquiring career-related experience and making valuable industry connections along the way.
Personalized Support
At West College of Business, our faculty are dedicated partners in your educational journey. With no giant lecture halls or teaching assistants, students build strong relationships with faculty who serve as instructors, mentors, and friends. Our faculty often help connect students with internship opportunities and job placements.
Networking and Professional Experiences
Annual events, such as the Young Executives Summit (pictured above) and the David E. Wright Executive Seminar Series bring professionals to campus to network with students and share their knowledge.
Alumni Success Stories
West Liberty Accounting graduates have gone on to successful careers. Watch the video below for one of their stories.
Beyond the Hilltop with Erica Wilcox
With her degree in accounting, Erica landed a job she loves with the Ziegenfelder company in Wheeling
Next Steps
Request Info
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