Business Administration - Managerial Accounting and Finance Concentration
About this Composite Major
Students who successfully complete the Managerial Accounting and Finance concentration demonstrate specialized knowledge in forecasting, planning, and analyzing data, as well as the ability to communicate and present the data in a format useful for decision-making. Graduates will demonstrate the ability to use available technology to apply their knowledge and skills effectively. The concentration is appropriate for those seeking career opportunities in small business management, banking, finance, internal management and control, and a variety of entrepreneurial opportunities.
Meet a Student
“VCSU’s Business Department laid an excellent foundation of knowledge which allowed me to excel in my professional life as well as many other areas. From the content we learned in class to the emphasis of teamwork and interactions with other students and professors, I wouldn’t be where I am today without the lessons instilled in me through VCSU’s Business Department.” Isaac Yturralde
Career Opportunities
Career opportunities can include positions such as:
Accounting Manager
Budget Specialist
Corporate Accountant
Controller
Cost Accountant
Credit Analyst
Internal Auditor
Revenue Agent
Securities Broker (consultant)
Financial Consultant
Financial Manager
Financial Services Sales Agent
Loan Officer
The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Examination: While the American Institute of CPAs writes the CPA examination, each state is responsible for establishing the requirements to use the CPA designation. According to North Dakota law and rules of the North State Board of Accountancy, individuals are currently eligible to sit for the Uniform Certified Public Accountant examination with a bachelor’s degree that includes at least 24 hours of accounting beyond Elements of Accounting I and II and 24 hours of business courses. The business course requirement may include classes in accounting, business, management, finance, or marketing. Candidates must have at least 150 semester hours of college courses at the undergraduate and/or graduate level.
The Managerial Accounting and Finance Concentration meets the current requirements for business courses but not the accounting courses requirement or the 150 semester hour requirement. Students interested in becoming a CPA should be prepared to either extend their undergraduate education at another institution or continue their studies at the graduate level. VCSU has entered into a bridge agreement with the University of North Dakota (UND) for their master of accountancy program. Accepted students will take two graduate courses from UND while completing their studies at VCSU. Those courses will count for both undergraduate and graduate degree completion. Upon graduation from VCSU, students continue with the master of accountancy program through UND. Interested students should discuss this opportunity with their academic advisor.
The Certified Management Accountant (CMA) Examination:
The Institute of Management Accountants establishes the standards or criteria for achieving the CMA designation. While the CMA examination is similar to the CPA examination, the CMA examination concentrates more heavily on corporate accounting and financial analysis. The Managerial Accounting and Finance Concentration meets the IMA’s education requirement of earning a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Students interested in earning the CMA designation should consult with their advisor regarding additional requirements of the IMA.
Get Involved in your Major
Business Club: There are many ways to get involved in your major. Among other things, you can participate in competitions, attend guest lectures, or join the business club. The goal of the club is to provide opportunities for students to develop the skills, abilities, and leadership qualities necessary to enter and be successful in the workplace. This organization allows business students to network and focus their time and energy on activities that will enhance their educational experiences and better prepare them for the job market.
Practical Experience
Students are encouraged to earn credits by extending their learning beyond the classroom. Job shadowing opportunities exist that allow students to observe the performance of employees in careers related to their area of study. Students will have the opportunity to participate in tours, workshops, fairs, and conferences.
An internship or business practicum is a valuable learning experience that can enhance the student’s educational experience. These hands-on learning opportunities allow students to apply knowledge to real-world situations, gain opportunities to network and may lead to career job offers. The business practicum includes a student-led business incubator and a volunteer tax preparation site. Area businesses and organizations that have offered internships to VCSU students include Arthur Companies Inc., The ARC Group, Bank Forward, Centrol Ag Consulting, Columbia Grain, Dakotah Bank, Doosan Bobcat, John Deere Seeding Group, Larson Grain, Nutrien Ag Solutions, Riverton Research Inc., USDA Farm Service Agency, Valley Plains Equipment, and Wold Engineering.
Please note: This plan is intended for general information only. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their academic advisor each semester before registration.
