Accounting at Saunders is your path to great careers and a CPA

Accounting is at the core of all businesses. Today, more than ever, that function is tied to technology, as practitioners manage accounting information systems amid a welter of data. The bachelor of science in accounting covers financial and managerial accounting disciplines, while introducing students to relevant, cutting-edge technology. Acquire the technical skills needed to design, operate, and control accounting information systems.

The accounting degree moves students along the path to gaining requirements of the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification. The degree is comprehensive and broad enough to prepare students for a variety of occupations. Through coursework, students learn how to determine an organization’s wealth, profitability, and liquidity as they guide short- and long-term financial business decisions. 

Classroom resources available for teachers and advisors!

Why Study Accounting?

• Technology: Access the best resources and expertise in technology at RIT to manage accounting information systems for success and utilize the latest digital analytics and communication tools.
• Strong Career Paths: Network with professionals from the Big Four and regional accounting firms when you join RIT's student chapter of the Next Generation of Accountants.
• Pursue Your CPA: Get started on the right path to completing specific requirements of the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification.
• Career Connections: Attend RIT’s accounting career fair to connect with representatives in finance and banking, and interview directly for open co-op and permanent employment positions.
• Alumni Relationships: Connect with Saunders alumni and key professionals through the Accounting Advisory Board.

The accounting program stands out as it offers students opportunities for exposure into the industry. In addition, students learn in small classes with faculty that have a wealth of industry experience, connections, and provide thought leadership through their research which is published in elite academic journals. Further opportunities to put theory into practice is through paid cooperative (co-op) education and internships. RIT is known for its co-op program as the university has built relationships with thousands of companies and organizations across industries. Last year, more than 4,500 students participated in co-op and internship positions with more than 3,400 hiring organizations, from large Fortune 500 companies and industry leaders, to small start-ups and world-class not-for-profits.

Attend an open house and learn more about Saunders College of Business at RIT!

In conjunction with classes, student clubs offer professional and educational opportunities that lead to lifelong connections with peers and faculty. Many students join the Next Generation of Accountants (NGA) club where students complement their in-class instruction with out-of-class activities related to the field of accounting.

Classroom resources available for teachers and advisors!

Accounting students experience a 100% outcomes rate, while Saunders is ranked in the top five for Best Undergraduate Business Programs in New York State by Poets&Quants, 2023. An accounting-specific career fair connects accounting majors with employers in finance and banking. The day-long event is for students to network with company representatives and interview directly for co-op and permanent employment positions. Typical job titles include:

• Accountant
• Auditor
• Credit Card/Cashless Accountant
• Financial Specialist
• Junior Accountant
• Senior Auditor
• Tax Accountant

Hear what graduates have to say about the program:

"Saunders has taught me the value of networking. My network of connections has helped provide many employment and professional opportunities." - Elizabeth Ferrari ’23 (accounting), The Bonadio Group, Rochester, NY

"My co-op and study abroad experiences have given me a distinct advantage I would not get anywhere else." - Megan Cornelius '17 (accounting), Ernst & Young, New York, NY

Discover more featured alumni profiles and videos on undergraduate success at Saunders.  

Saunders College of Business

With a 95% career outcomes rate, Saunders provides students with a comprehensive understanding of business while utilizing RIT’s vast resources in technology. The core curriculum provides business students with the knowledge they need to succeed in their field, and courses reflect the latest trends and business needs. Electives and minors can additionally be chosen from any of RIT’s nine colleges to tailor degrees toward career goals.

With a growing global network of more than 25,000 Saunders College alumni and 136,000 RIT alumni, students can make connections almost anywhere and are encouraged to meet with devoted alumni, dedicated professors, and driven peers. Students can study abroad at any of RIT’s four Global Campuses, additional global student exchange partnerships are available, and there are over 100 study abroad locations on every continent. 

RIT is also the home to one of the world’s first and largest cooperative education programs, allowing students to do paid work and gain hands-on experience before they graduate. More than 4,500 students complete over 6,200 co-op assignments each year and more than 3,400 employers employ them throughout the U.S. and abroad. 

Saunders College of Business is ranked in the top five Best Undergraduate Business Programs in New York State by Poets&Quants, 2023. Additionally, ranking #53 nationally and #31 for career outcomes.

Apply today to become eligible for scholarships and join the Saunders community!