The Accountancy program is a very demanding, competitive and rigorous course of study that develops skills in critical thinking, problem solving, written and oral communication, and decision making, in addition to developing the necessary tools to engage in lifelong learning after graduation. The program also develops an understanding of accounting theory, technical procedures, and the professional standards and ethics essential to becoming a successful professional in public, industry, government and not-for-profit accounting.

To successfully major in accountancy, students are expected to possess a high level of maturity, motivation and self-discipline. Students are admitted to the accountancy program based on their level of preparation and performance. To enter the accountancy program, students are admitted to the University as Pre-Accountancy majors or, if already attending CSUN, students must file for a change of major to Pre-Accountancy. Successful completion of the Pre-Accountancy major is required to become an Accountancy major. Students must obtain a grade of “C” or higher in each required upper division course in order to graduate.

Student Learning Outcomes

Graduates: Have a conceptual understanding of accounting for external financial reporting, managerial applications, tax planning and preparation, and the attest function; Apply their conceptual understanding to both structured and unstructured problems; Research accounting literature for both structured and unstructured problems in external financial reporting, tax and auditing; Have the necessary knowledge and skills required to sit for a certifying examination; Recognize and analyze ethical problems in practical accounting situations; select and defend a course of action; Effectively communicate complex accounting concepts both orally and in writing. Apply critical-thinking skills when analyzing and solving problems.