Accounting
Build expertise in tax, auditing, and financial reporting.
The Accounting program at Kentucky Wesleyan College equips students for careers in auditing, finance, taxation, and management. With courses in financial reporting, business law, and auditing, plus mentoring from expert faculty, graduates are prepared for the CPA exam, advanced study, and leadership roles in today’s business world.
Accounting Program Features
At Kentucky Wesleyan College, the Accounting program gives you the tools to launch a rewarding and respected career. You’ll master auditing, taxation, and financial reporting in small, supportive classes that focus on both technical expertise and ethical decision-making. Faculty mentors will guide your journey, providing one-on-one support as you sharpen your professional skills. Real-world learning is built in through internships with firms, corporations, and nonprofit organizations, helping you build a résumé that stands out. Case studies and simulations bring accounting concepts to life, ensuring you graduate with confidence. With this strong academic foundation and practical experience, you’ll be prepared to pursue professional certifications, graduate study, and some of the most lucrative roles in business and finance.
Accreditation
The Terry Woodward Center for Business Studies at Kentucky Wesleyan College has received specialized accreditation for its business programs through the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) located at 11960 Quivira Rd, Overland Park, Kansas 66213. For a list of accredited programs please refer to our IACBE member status page.
Career Paths
Certified Public Accountant (CPA) – CPAs are licensed experts in auditing, taxation, and financial reporting. They work in public accounting firms, corporations, and government agencies, often earning higher salaries and accessing leadership tracks unavailable to non-licensed accountants.
Financial Manager / Controller – These professionals oversee organizational finances, create long-term strategies, and guide accounting teams. With median annual wages above $150,000, this role is one of the most lucrative options for accounting graduates.
Forensic Accountant – Forensic accountants specialize in detecting fraud, analyzing financial disputes, and supporting legal cases. Their unique expertise is in demand across federal agencies, law firms, and corporations, often commanding higher-than-average salaries.
Management Consultant (Accounting Focus) – Consultants with accounting expertise help businesses improve efficiency, compliance, and profitability. Many work for top consulting and Big Four firms, where starting salaries are highly competitive and advancement is rapid.
Senior Internal Auditor – Internal auditors at the managerial level design risk management strategies and ensure regulatory compliance. In large organizations, these roles offer six-figure salaries and often serve as stepping stones to executive finance leadership.
Chief Financial Officer (CFO) – The highest executive role in finance, CFOs guide company-wide strategy, investments, and reporting. While this position requires years of experience, it represents the peak earning potential for accounting graduates.
Engaged Learning Opportunities
Internships
Accounting Program Requirements
To graduate with a degree in Accounting, students complete 66–67 semester hours within the major, alongside general education requirements. The curriculum includes Principles of Accounting I and II, Intermediate and Advanced Accounting, Cost Accounting, Auditing, Federal Taxation, and Business Law. Students also take core business courses such as Financial Management, Marketing, and Business Strategy. Bachelor of Arts students demonstrate foreign language proficiency, while those pursuing the CPA track complete 150 hours with additional coursework in economics, business, computer information systems, and English. This rigorous program ensures graduates are prepared for professional certification, graduate study, or immediate entry into careers across business and finance.
Employers that hire KWC Accounting graduates
Graduates of KWC with a Accounting degree have gone on to work at organizations like:
- Riney Hancock CPAs
- Ebelhar Whitehead PLLC
- PricewaterhouseCoopers
