Dr. Sia Nassiripour, Department Chair
V 4081, NassiripourS@wpunj.edu, 973-720-2241

Bachelor of Science in Accounting

Minor in Accounting

The accounting program, which includes traditional study of financial and managerial accounting, taxation, auditing, and legal and regulatory topics, gives students the educational experience and the skill set to qualify for a wide range of career paths in auditing and other assurance services, budgeting, tax accounting, systems consulting, internal auditing and cost accounting among others. Typically students start in entry level positions in public accounting with local, regional and international firms, private industry in banking, manufacturing, retail and service organizations, local, state and federal government agencies. The accounting curriculum prepares students for a number of professional examinations including the CPA (Certified Public Accountant), CMA (Certified Management Accountant), and CIA (Certified Internal Auditor) and other certifications.  It also prepares students to pursue advanced degrees such as the Master of Science in Accounting, Master of Business Administration (MBA), or Master of Taxation.

The department guides students who may wish to pursue professional certification as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA) and Certified Internal Auditor (CIA). Students should note that even though CPA requirements to qualify for the examination vary from state to state, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) has mandated that an individual who wishes to become a CPA must complete 150 credit hours. This credit hour requirement can be satisfied at William Paterson University either through enrollment in an advanced degree program (MBA) or the completion of additional undergraduate level courses. If planned properly, the 150 credit undergraduate program may still be completed in four years by attending summer sessions.