Southern Connecticut State University offers a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Accounting for individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-accounting discipline and want to transition into the accounting profession. This program was created in response to the growing demand for Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) in Connecticut and nationwide.
Students enrolled in the certificate program join regularly scheduled undergraduate accounting classes offered in day, evening, and online formats, providing flexibility for working professionals. The program consists of eight required accounting courses totaling 27 credit hours, giving students a strong foundation in financial and managerial accounting, auditing, taxation, and more.
CPA Exam Eligibility
Graduates of the program will be eligible to sit for the CPA examination in Connecticut, provided they have also completed 22 credit hours in general business courses. To become licensed as a CPA, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- 150 total credit hours of education
- 36 credit hours in accounting
- 30 credit hours in business education
Southern’s program helps you meet these requirements efficiently, positioning you for success in a high-demand profession.
Careers
An Accounting Post-baccalaureate Certificate prepares individuals for careers in accounting and finance across various industries. Certificate holders may qualify for roles such as staff accountant, tax preparer, bookkeeper, payroll specialist, or audit associate. These positions are available in public accounting firms, corporate finance departments, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and small businesses. The certificate is also a valuable step toward meeting the educational requirements for the CPA exam. With experience, individuals can advance into roles like senior accountant or accounting manager. This credential is ideal for those seeking to shift into accounting from another field or strengthen their qualifications for advancement.
Typical Job Titles
- Accountant and Auditor
- Treasurer and Controller
- Financial Risk Specialist
- Tax Examiner
- Credit Analyst
- Management Analyst
- Financial Manager
- Personal Financial Manager