Why explore accounting careers?
Learn to combine rigorous accounting theory with hands-on methods. Studying accounting at CSB+SJU, you will have the opportunity to pick the concentration that fits best with your career goals. All states, including Minnesota, require 150 credit hours of education to obtain the CPA license. Our Public Accounting concentration has many preparatory courses to help students do well on the Certified Public Accounting (CPA) exam. The Traditional Accounting concentration provides a broader, more general view of accounting and is especially useful for students who double major or study abroad.
Many Accounting students pursue internships during their junior year. Internships not only give students hands-on experience but allows them to test their probable career path while still in college.
CSB and SJU is among the top three accounting programs in Minnesota and the only one at a true liberal arts school. Accounting at a liberal arts college gives students a broader perspective on life and extraordinary critical thinking skills that will set them apart.
Accounting career readiness skills:
- Critical Thinking – Strengthened through analyzing financial data, interpreting complex regulations, and applying accounting principles to real-world business problems. Students learn to question assumptions, evaluate evidence, and make informed judgments about financial decisions, ethical dilemmas, and strategic recommendations.
- Communication – Students learn to translate technical financial information into clear, accessible insights for diverse audiences — from business leaders and investors to colleagues without accounting backgrounds. Writing reports, presenting findings, and defending recommendations require precision, clarity, and professionalism.
- Collaboration and Teamwork – Whether working on group projects, conducting audits, or preparing financial statements, students learn to coordinate roles, manage deadlines, and contribute their expertise toward shared goals. Accounting education emphasizes integrity, accountability, and interpersonal effectiveness — preparing graduates to thrive in team-oriented, cross-functional workplaces.
