Mission Statement

The mission of the Department of Accounting at Utah Valley University is to build the strongest possible learning and growth environment for students by:

• Maintaining a teaching-focused, engaged learning environment
• Adding value to each students education by developing essential skills and abilities
• Engaging in scholarly activity among faculty and students
• Assessing current accounting trends and developing specialties
• Partnering with the business community
• Building our reputation within the region

 Gainful Employment Disclosure

 Students are strongly encouraged to follow a realistic financial plan to ensure that the completion of a higher education degree will reimburse the cost of obtaining the degree. More information can be found at http://www.uvu.edu/financialaid/info/gainful/certificate_accounting/index.html

Program Description

The Department of Accounting offers the following academic programs:

• Master of Accountancy trains students for professional-level positions in public accounting, industry, and government and is essential for advancement in many accounting career paths. It fulfills the education requirements to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Utah.
• Bachelor of Science – General Accounting Emphasis prepares students for a wide variety of entry-level accounting positions in business, industry, and government. With additional training support and experience many professional accounting certifications may be obtained with this degree.
• Bachelor of Science – Internal Auditing Emphasis is an accounting degree which prepares students to enter the internal auditing profession. With additional training support and experience student may qualify for the Certified Internal Auditor designation offered by the Institute of Internal Auditors.
• Minor in Accounting provides education in accounting at the intermediate level. This minor provides financial training for non-accountants who need an understanding of accounting information to support them in their desired employment. Elective courses allow some customization of the minor to the needs of the student.   
• Minor in Internal Auditing includes basic skills in internal auditing, accounting, and information systems auditing. This minor complements many majors inside and outside of business to create opportunities for entry-level employment in internal auditing in businesses and industries related to the student’s major.
• Associate of Science in Accounting provides an introduction to accounting and prepares students to move seamlessly into a Bachelor of Science program. This associate degree qualifies students for positions requiring an associate degree and basic training in accounting and supporting subjects.
• Certificate of Completion in Accounting which provides an introduction to accounting supported with courses in mathematics, spreadsheets, economics, English, and communication. This certificate prepares students to perform basic accounting tasks and to pursue higher degrees in accounting.

 Employment Opportunities

Every organization needs an accountant to navigate financial decisions. Accountants are needed in times of prosperity as well as in times of financial distress; therefore, the opportunities for employment remain strong. Accountants are employed to perform a variety of critical tasks related to businesses and individuals. Areas of employment in accounting include:

• Analysis of economic events, recording financial information, summarizing and reporting financial information, and assisting in decisions based on the financial information presented.
• Auditing, or independent verification of financial and non-financial information, to lend credibility to the information presented.
• Development, analysis, and monitoring of internal controls which assure protection of assets, accuracy of financial reporting, effectiveness and efficiency of operations, and compliance with laws, regulations, and policies.
• Tax consulting for individuals, businesses, and other entities including proper reporting to taxing entities such as state and federal governments.
• Business consulting particularly related to financial decisions and internal controls.

The accounting profession provides employment opportunities and salaries that increase with higher levels of education and  professional certifications. It is not uncommon to find accountants becoming the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) or Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of an organization. In addition, accounting  can provide flexible careers for those who wish to work part-time.

Accreditation

The Woodbury School of Business (WSB) is accredited by AACSB International, the premier business accrediting organization in the world. Accreditation is a mark of quality programs that live by their mission and provide quality education to their students. Many employers and graduate programs seek students from AACSB accredited programs.

Woodbury School of Business

Advisement Center:

• Office: WB 257
• Telephone: 801-863-8032

Dean: Norman S. Wright

• Office: WB 128b
• Telephone: 801-863-8260
• Email: Norman.Wright@uvu.edu