Accounting & Finance Degree | Bethel University

What can I do with this degree?

An accounting and finance degree is a gateway to careers in certified public accounting and related fields. Bethel’s degree meets the required credit hours for taking the Certified Public Accountant exam (150 credits) for CPA licensure in the State of Minnesota. Through the development of critical thinking skills, our graduates are well-prepared to meet the challenges of providing insight and strategic direction. Finance knowledge provides a valuable support to leaders across functional areas in all organizations. 

Our accounting and finance alumni work as CPAs in:

• Accounting firms
• Corporations
• Not-for-profits
• Auditing firms
• Consulting firms

While most accounting and finance graduates are working as CPAs, some are in related fields as:

• Financial analysts
• Business analysts
• Credit analysts
• Investment analysts
• Financial planners
• Bankers
• Corporate finance support positions
• Corporate audit functions
• Insurance underwriters

What skills will I develop?

Wondering whether an accounting and finance major is worth it? Our degree program will prepare you to  analyze decisions through the use of financial models—a skill that is foundational to critically evaluating the choices organizations need to make in order to maximize the return on invested capital. Moreover, you’ll develop skills in:

• Excel modeling
• Financial forecasting
• Valuation models
• Sensitivity analyses
• Tax preparation
• Qualitative risk analysis
• Effective presentation of financial data
• Succinctly support decision making
• Development of a global perspective of the role of finance
• Problem solving related to partnerships, mergers, and international and government accounting
• Data analysis
• Strategic thinking
• Ethical reasoning

You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in the R.E.A.L. Experience—a program specifically designed to help you gain the relevant, hands-on experience employers desire—so that when you graduate, you’ll be as impressive in practice as you are on paper.

What unique experiences or opportunities will I have?

Students in the accounting and finance major will have the opportunity to participate in:

• International Market Issues course study abroad option during interim
• Chartered Financial Analysts (CFA) Global Equity Research Challenge
• Development and implementation of investment portfolios
• Group and individual simulations to assist financial decision-making
• Tutoring leadership for fellow students
• Student leadership positions across campus