Beta Alpha Psi: Accounting
Beta Alpha Psi recognizes academic excellence and complements members’ formal education by providing interaction among students, faculty and professionals and fosters lifelong growth, service and ethical conduct.
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Accounting (Bachelor of Science in Business Administration)
Master the "language of business" and launch a high-impact career with a nationally recognized accounting degree from Creighton. Our program blends rigorous financial theory with real-world application, preparing you for elite roles in public, private, managerial or governmental accounting. Guided by expert faculty, you will gain the technical expertise and ethical foundation required to lead in a global economy. From day one, you are part of a prestige network where students are recruited by top-tier firms and equipped to drive financial success across any industry.
- Elite Recruitment: Benefit from direct pipelines to Big Four and national firms that actively recruit our graduates for global opportunities.
- Practical Experience: Secure multiple high-profile internships locally and nationally to build your resume before graduation.
- CPA Readiness: Gain the specific knowledge and credit hours necessary to excel on the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam.
- Leadership Development: Access exclusive professional organizations and service-learning projects that build vital soft skills.
- Personalized Mentorship: Learn in small classes from faculty who are committed to your individual academic and career success.
- Industry Experts: Learn from faculty who enhance classroom instruction with their vast professional experience.
Explore Our BSBA Accounting Program
You’ll see why we’re nationally ranked.
The BSBA accounting degree program prepares students for professional certification, leadership and success in a variety of careers:
- Public accounting
- Private accounting
- Internal auditing
- Managerial accounting
- Accounting systems and analytics
- Governmental accounting
As an accounting major, you’ll learn:
- The functions of accounting and the underlying concepts of accounting theory
- How to apply accounting knowledge to business problems
- The subfields of accounting, such as audit, tax, accounting systems, etc.
- How to use technology, analytics and emerging tools to support accounting and business decision-making
Accounting for the Common Good
Employers demand more than just technical proficiency; they seek agile, ethical leaders. Our unique Mindset Curriculum is integrated into your accounting coursework, ensuring you develop the six core competencies – Action, Cross-cultural, Analytical, Collaborative, Reflective and Service Mindsets – that top-tier firms value most. We don’t just teach you how to "do well" in business—we empower you to "do good" for society.
- Analytical and action-oriented: Move beyond data entry to provide high-level strategic insights and decisive financial leadership.
- Collaborative and cross-cultural: Master the ability to work across diverse teams and navigate the complexities of the global marketplace.
- Reflective and service-driven: Ground your financial expertise in Jesuit values, practicing ethical decision-making that serves the greater professional community.
Finance Program Admission Requirements
What You Need to Know
Admissions to the program are based upon:
- High school GPA
- ACT or SAT scores*
- Extracurricular activities
- A personal statement to demonstrate creative abilities not reflected in transcripts
- A recommendation from your high school counselor
Additionally, honors sections and advanced placement courses will enhance a candidate’s application.
*If you are choosing to apply test-optional, ACT/SAT exam scores are not required at the time of application for admission.
Creighton undergraduate students on the accelerated MAC pathway have separate requirements and a different application. Find details and apply.
Accounting Program Admissions
Admission to the accounting program requires:
- No grade lower than “C” in 200-level accounting courses and/or
- Permission of the department chair.
A student whose performance has been marginal may be accepted with probationary status or deferred until the probability of successfully completing the program can be determined.
Retention in the program is conditional upon demonstrating competence in upper division accounting courses.
When to Apply
- August 1: Application for fall admission opens.
- October 1: Submission period for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opens (open through June 30). Use the prior year tax information. Creighton’s school code number is 002542.
- November 1: Early Action deadline for applicants. Submit your Application for Undergraduate Admission and all required credentials by this date to receive a non-binding admissions decision by December 15. All decisions are non-binding.
- December 1: Priority deadline for scholarship consideration. Submit your Application for Undergraduate Admission and all required credentials by this date to receive priority scholarship consideration and remain eligible to apply for honors and leadership programs and additional scholarship opportunities.
Accounting Careers
Creighton's accounting program prepares students for a variety of career paths, including:
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA): Provide auditing, tax and advisory services to businesses and individuals.
- Auditor: Examine financial records and internal controls to ensure accuracy and compliance.
- Tax accountant: Help organizations and individuals navigate tax planning, preparation and regulations.
- Forensic accountant: Investigate financial fraud, disputes and other financial irregularities.
- Management accountant: Support organizational decision-making through budgeting, forecasting and performance analysis.
- Financial analyst: Analyze financial data to guide investment and business decisions.
- Corporate finance professional: Manage budgeting, capital planning, cash flow and financial strategy within an organization.
- Business consultant: Help organizations improve operations, financial performance and strategic planning.
- Government accountant: Manage public funds and ensure accountability within government agencies.
- Chief Financial Officer (CFO): Lead an organization's financial strategy and long-term planning.
Accounting in Action: Real-World Experience That Counts
At the Heider College of Business, we bridge the gap between classroom and boardroom. Our accounting faculty integrate immersive travel, research opportunities and hands-on service into your curriculum. Additionally, more than 90% of business students complete at least one internship during their college career to gain real-world skills that strengthen their qualifications and give them a competitive edge. You’ll graduate with a global perspective and practical skills top firms demand.
Experiential Highlights for Accounting Majors
- Wall Street Week (New York City): Travel with accounting and finance faculty to the heart of the financial world to network with industry leaders and see global markets in action.
- Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Outreach: Move beyond the textbook by participating in the VITA program, where you’ll prepare tax returns for low-income families and gain vital client-facing experience.
- Accounting Across Borders: A Jesuit Global Learning Experience: Complement campus-based accounting concepts through a hands-on experience in Spain, where you'll network with innovative business leaders and regulatory agencies to build global competency.
Fast-Track Your Future: Two Degrees in Four Years
Creighton’s Accelerated MAC Program allows driven students to graduate with both a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Master of Accounting, as well as a graduate level analytics certificate in just four years—saving you time and tuition while launching your career a year ahead of your peers.
Why choose the accelerated MAC?
- CPA Licensure Advantage: Earn a master's degree that helps satisfy educational requirements for CPA licensure and reduces the amount of experience required for licensure in many states, accelerating your path to becoming a CPA.
- Advanced Professional Preparation: Build expertise in accounting, analytics and emerging technologies that prepare you for a rapidly evolving profession and distinguish you in the job market.
- Individualized Roadmap: Receive one-on-one faculty advising to craft a personalized four-year plan, ensuring you meet every milestone on this expedited path.
- Built-in Community: Experience a close-knit cohort of fellow Accelerated MAC students.
Plan your path early.
While the formal application for the master’s portion typically occurs during your third year, early enrollment is essential. To ensure you take the correct course sequences and remain on track for this rigorous program, you should indicate your interest as soon as possible.
Launch your career sooner.
By condensing five years of study into four, you enter the workforce with a master’s degree, CPA eligibility and significant firm experience. This program isn't just about finishing faster—it's about starting stronger.
Get Involved in Student Clubs and Organizations
Alpha Kappa Psi: Business
Alpha Kappa Psi is the oldest and largest business fraternity. Become a part of a group that develops well-trained, ethical, skilled, resourceful and experienced business leaders.
Heider Business Senate
The Creighton University Heider Business Senate is a liaison between the student body and the administration. The Senate promotes the mission and values of the Heider College of Business through various projects.
Beta Gamma Sigma: Business
Beta Gamma Sigma promotes the advancement of education in the art and science of business and fosters integrity in the conduct of business activities.
"The amazing department faculty helped guide me in finding my academic path in accounting. Their combination of broad industry experience and willingness to mentor provided me with myriad opportunities to find my fit in the accounting profession post-graduation.”
Timothy Stuckslager
BSBA Accounting, Master of Accounting
Minor in Spanish & Hispanic Studies 2026
Tuition, Cost and Financial Aid
Tuition is reviewed annually. Visit our Cost and Aid page for the current full cost of attendance, net-price calculator and financial-aid information. At Creighton, nearly all undergraduates receive financial aid. To be considered, submit your FAFSA and browse our institutional-aid programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do with an accounting degree?
An accounting degree prepares you for careers such as an accountant, auditor, tax accountant, financial analyst, forensic accountant and consultant. Graduates work in public accounting, corporations, nonprofit organizations and government agencies, with opportunities to advance into leadership roles.
What is the difference between an accounting and a finance degree?
Accounting focuses on tracking, analyzing and reporting financial information. Finance focuses on managing money, investments and financial strategy. Together, they help organizations understand their financial performance and plan for the future.
Will this program help me meet the requirements for CPA licensure?
Yes. Creighton's accounting programs are designed to help students meet the educational requirements for CPA licensure and prepare for successful careers in the accounting profession. Through the Accelerated Master of Accounting (MAC) program, students can earn both a BSBA in Accounting and a Master of Accounting in four years. Earning a master's degree can satisfy educational requirements and reduce the amount of experience required for CPA licensure in many states. Faculty advisors work closely with students to develop a pathway aligned with their career goals and the requirements of the state in which they plan to pursue licensure.
Are classes taught by professors or graduate students?
All classes are taught by professors; most of whom draw on extensive industry experience to bring academic concepts they teach to life.
What kinds of internships and experiential learning opportunities are available?
Accounting majors gain hands-on experience through internships, networking events, service and other professional development opportunities. These experiences help build technical skills, industry connections and career readiness.
Is the program AACSB accredited?
Yes. Less than 6% of business schools worldwide are AACSB-accredited, the gold standard of business education. The Heider College of Business is one of these top-tier business schools.
Accreditation
The Heider College of Business at Creighton holds dual accreditation from AACSB International, the global hallmark of excellence. Since 1949, we have remained in an elite tier of business education—one of only 2% of institutions worldwide to earn AACSB accreditation for both business and accounting.
- Elite distinction: As an original charter institution for accounting accreditation, we represent the highest standard of academic achievement.
- National rankings: Our undergraduate and graduate programs consistently rank in the top third of all AACSB-accredited schools by U.S. News & World Report.
- Leadership excellence: AACSB has specifically recognized the college for its innovative initiatives in leadership development.
- Quality assured: Our commitment to continuous improvement is validated through a rigorous peer-review process, ensuring your degree carries global prestige.
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State Licensure Requirements
Becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is a strategic, two-step journey focused on education and experience. At Creighton, we ensure you navigate every requirement with confidence:
- Nebraska certification: Our accounting programs fully meet all statutory and regulatory education requirements to sit for the CPA exam in the State of Nebraska.
- National flexibility: Through personalized advising, we help you meet the specific educational benchmarks for the remaining 54 U.S. jurisdictions.
- Beyond the exam: Some states require additional credits beyond those needed to sit for the test; Heider College of Business programs are designed to satisfy these expanded expectations.
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