The Accounting Department provides quality accounting education in contemporary subject matter in a supportive environment. Dedicated and qualified faculty ensure that our undergraduate and graduate programs develop competent and confident graduates, prepared for the challenges of a global business environment. Our graduates compete for entry-level and higher positions and advance successfully as financial professionals in public accounting in a broad range of industries and government. The Department also offers courses to support other programs offered by the Sawyer Business School.
Our goals include earning an excellent reputation because of the quality of our graduates, improving the quality and relevance of our intellectual contributions, advancing constructive relationships with professional and other relevant communities, and enhancing our collegiality within the Department, the School and the University.
The Accounting Department prepares students for professional careers in public accounting, accounting and financial management in business and industry, not-for-profit organizations, and government agencies. The Accounting Department is accredited by AACSB International, making the Business School’s BSBA in Accounting major the only AACSB International-accredited accounting program in Boston.
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts mandates a minimum of 120 semester hours, with specific course requirements, to sit for the Uniform CPA exam. 150 semester hours are required; earned as part of a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or both to become a licensed CPA. The 4+1 programs (MSA and MST) are two options designed to enable students to satisfy the licensure requirement. There are recommended tracks in these 4+1 programs designed to meet the Massachusetts requirements and prepare students for successful careers in accounting. Students who plan to qualify as CPAs other than in Massachusetts should ascertain from the respective states or jurisdictions the specific requirements with which they must comply.
Additional professional accrediting bodies in accounting and auditing, in particular the Institute of Management Accountants (which supports the CMA qualification) and the Institute of Certified Internal Auditors (which supports the CIA qualification), have not enacted a 150-hour educational requirement. Nevertheless, Suffolk’s Accounting Department recommends you consider the 4+1 program options to prepare yourself for professional careers as accountants. These options provide elective tracks that are designed to prepare you for rewarding careers in various fields in addition to public accounting such as corporate accounting, international accounting, tax advising, financial planning, not-for-profit accounting, and governmental accounting.
Accounting course offerings are designed to allow completion of the accounting major through part- or full-time study, in day and evening courses (including some online course offerings).
The BSBA in Accounting requires completion of 24 credit hours in accounting beyond the completion of ACCT 201, Accounting for Decision Making I and ACCT 202, Accounting for Decision Making II. A cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0 in the accounting major and a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 overall must be maintained to graduate
Accounting majors must complete 150 hours of pre-professional or professional accounting experience prior to graduating.
Accounting majors are assigned a faculty advisor from the Accounting Department to assist them in planning their program of studies and advise them on academic and career matters.
ACCT 202
3.00
This first course in taxation concentrates on the federal income taxation of individuals with some discussion of business taxation. The objective of the course is to explore the basic structure of individual income taxation, including the individual tax formula, income, deductions and credits and an introduction to property transactions. A major emphasis is placed on how tax laws affect everyday personal and business decisions.
ACCT 202; JUNIOR STANDING
3.00
Review of basic financial accounting concepts followed by an examination of selected balance sheet and income statement items. The focus of this communications intensive course is on the valuation and reporting of current and non-current assets and liabilities. The income determination aspects of these items are also considered.
ACCT 321 (completed with C or better)
3.00
An examination of selected balance sheet and statement items. The focus of this communications intensive course is on the valuation and reporting of investments, and stockholders equity. The income determination aspects of these items are also considered, along with special topics such as pensions, leases, deferred taxes, and cash flows.
ACCT 202
3.00
Concepts and procedures underlying the development of a cost accounting system for managerial decisions, control and performance reporting. The basic ideas of responsibility accounting are introduced.
ACCT 322; ISOM 310 or ISOM 423
3.00
The design, operation, and use of accounting information systems. The functional relationships of the AIS within an organization are examined. A background in automated data processing, along with the important human and organizational considerations in system design and implementation, are also covered.
ACCT 321 AND ACCT 331
3.00
An advanced study of auditing process and philosophy. Preparation of audit working papers supporting an audit examination, and the report and opinion of the auditor to management, stockholders, and others are covered. This communications intensive course deals with internal auditing, environmental compliance and systems assurance.
ACCT 431 (may be taken Concurrently)
3.00
Addresses the non-technical foundations of accounting for CFOs, Audit Partners, FASB Members, and other leadership roles in accounting and finance. Core elements include knowledge leadership, networking, and innovation. Subject matter combines current financial issues with traditional and radical concepts. However, the primary objective is to provide practice in forming and expressing opinions and taking a stand, using communication for impact, anticipating and managing ethical conflicts, and clarifying ones own guiding principles.
Select one from the following:
Take FIN-310 ACCT-331;
3.00
This course explores economic, political and cultural variables that shape accounting and disclosure in various countries. Students also gain an understanding of international financial reporting standards and the forces for convergence between IFRS and USGAAP. Financial analysis in a multifinancial context.
ACCT 331
3.00
Its a study of accounting principles, financial reporting, and methods of budgeting and controlling operations in government agencies, charitable foundations, hospitals, universities and other not-for-profit organizations.
ACCT 320
3.00
Covers advanced individual tax topics such as cost recovery, itemized deductions, passive activity losses, AMT and complex basis rules, and covers the operation and formation of C corporations.
ACCT 322, and Junior standing
3.00
Coverage of accounting issues and procedures involve in business combinations and consolidated financial statement, partnerships, multinational issues and foreign currency issues.
Instructors consent required
0.00
Candidates require an approved record of 150 hours of accounting experience. Experience may be acquired through internship, part-or full-time employment,or cooperative education. Approval must be obtained from the Accounting Department. Accounting majors must register for the experiential component during the semester in which they will complete the required 150 hours.
The minor requires the completion of the following three required courses (nine credit hours) beyond the completion of ACCT 201, Accounting for Decision Making I and ACCT 202, Accounting for Decision Making II.
ACCT 202; JUNIOR STANDING
3.00
Review of basic financial accounting concepts followed by an examination of selected balance sheet and income statement items. The focus of this communications intensive course is on the valuation and reporting of current and non-current assets and liabilities. The income determination aspects of these items are also considered.
ACCT 321 (completed with C or better)
3.00
An examination of selected balance sheet and statement items. The focus of this communications intensive course is on the valuation and reporting of investments, and stockholders equity. The income determination aspects of these items are also considered, along with special topics such as pensions, leases, deferred taxes, and cash flows.
ACCT 202
3.00
Concepts and procedures underlying the development of a cost accounting system for managerial decisions, control and performance reporting. The basic ideas of responsibility accounting are introduced.
In general, College of Arts and Sciences students may only undertake a functional business minor when they have achieved junior standing and have completed SBS 101 Business Foundations.
After SBS 101, College students are required to take all of the following:ENG 102; ISOM 120; MATH 130, or MATH 134, or MATH 146, or MATH 161, or MATH 165
3.00
Designed to provide a user of accounting information with the skills to appraise and manage a business. Students are introduced to the accounting cycle, the financial statements, and the theory underlying accounting as information. Coverage addresses current accounting topics, including relevant ethical and international issues found in the financial press.
ACCT-201
3.00
Enables students to apply the concepts and skills from the preceding course. They learn how to analyze the financial condition and performance of a firm, and how to use accounting information in business planning, decision-making, and control. Relevant current ethical and competitive issues found in the financial press are discussed in the course.
ACCT 202; JUNIOR STANDING
3.00
Review of basic financial accounting concepts followed by an examination of selected balance sheet and income statement items. The focus of this communications intensive course is on the valuation and reporting of current and non-current assets and liabilities. The income determination aspects of these items are also considered.
ACCT 321 (completed with C or better)
3.00
An examination of selected balance sheet and statement items. The focus of this communications intensive course is on the valuation and reporting of investments, and stockholders equity. The income determination aspects of these items are also considered, along with special topics such as pensions, leases, deferred taxes, and cash flows.
ACCT 202
3.00
Concepts and procedures underlying the development of a cost accounting system for managerial decisions, control and performance reporting. The basic ideas of responsibility accounting are introduced.
The Accounting Department offers the following 4 + 1 degree options:
Suffolk University’s 4+1 Programs were developed for those wanting a deeper and more comprehensive preparation for their careers as accountants. It is designed for top undergraduate accounting majors from Suffolk or other American universities and colleges. It allows those students with a 3.5 or higher cumulative GPA in their final semester of their senior year, from all U.S. institutions, to apply to our MS in Accounting, MS in Taxation, combined MSA/MST or combined MSA/MSF Programs without having to take the GMAT or GRE exam. Qualified students whose GPA is below 3.5 are encouraged to apply, but must successfully complete the GMAT or GRE exam.
Our programs emphasize deep accounting and/or tax knowledge, analytical skills and information technology, and a broad perspective on the professional and institutional aspects of the practice of accounting. A recommended track in this program meets the requirements for taking the Uniform CPA Examination in Massachusetts. Students normally apply for entry to the MSA or MST during their final semester of their senior year, or shortly after, and must meet all of the requirements for admission. After completing their Bachelor's degree, they work toward their MSA or MST on a full-or part-time basis. Students normally complete the graduate program with one year of full-time study. Our program is flexible to accommodate the needs of working professionals.
ENG 102; ISOM 120; MATH 130, or MATH 134, or MATH 146, or MATH 161, or MATH 165
3.00
Designed to provide a user of accounting information with the skills to appraise and manage a business. Students are introduced to the accounting cycle, the financial statements, and the theory underlying accounting as information. Coverage addresses current accounting topics, including relevant ethical and international issues found in the financial press.
ENG 102; ISOM 120; MATH 130, 134, 146, or 161; 3.2 GPA
3.00
Designed to provide a user of accounting information with the skills to appraise and manage a business. Students are introduced to the accounting cycle, the financial statements, and the theory underlying accounting as information. Coverage addresses current accounting topics, including relevant ethical and international issues found in the financial press.
ACCT-201
3.00
Enables students to apply the concepts and skills from the preceding course. They learn how to analyze the financial condition and performance of a firm, and how to use accounting information in business planning, decision-making, and control. Relevant current ethical and competitive issues found in the financial press are discussed in the course.
ACCT 201 Honors Section, GPA of 3.2 or higher
3.00
Enables students to apply the concepts and skills from the preceding course. They learn how to analyze the financial condition and performance of a firm, and how to use accounting information in business planning, decision-making, and control. Relevant current ethical and competitive issues found in the financial press are discussed in the course.
Take FIN-310 ACCT-331;
3.00
This course explores economic, political and cultural variables that shape accounting and disclosure in various countries. Students also gain an understanding of international financial reporting standards and the forces for convergence between IFRS and USGAAP. Financial analysis in a multifinancial context.
ACCT 202
3.00
This first course in taxation concentrates on the federal income taxation of individuals with some discussion of business taxation. The objective of the course is to explore the basic structure of individual income taxation, including the individual tax formula, income, deductions and credits and an introduction to property transactions. A major emphasis is placed on how tax laws affect everyday personal and business decisions.
ACCT 202; JUNIOR STANDING
3.00
Review of basic financial accounting concepts followed by an examination of selected balance sheet and income statement items. The focus of this communications intensive course is on the valuation and reporting of current and non-current assets and liabilities. The income determination aspects of these items are also considered.
ACCT 321 (completed with C or better)
3.00
An examination of selected balance sheet and statement items. The focus of this communications intensive course is on the valuation and reporting of investments, and stockholders equity. The income determination aspects of these items are also considered, along with special topics such as pensions, leases, deferred taxes, and cash flows.
ACCT 202
3.00
Concepts and procedures underlying the development of a cost accounting system for managerial decisions, control and performance reporting. The basic ideas of responsibility accounting are introduced.
ACCT 331
3.00
Its a study of accounting principles, financial reporting, and methods of budgeting and controlling operations in government agencies, charitable foundations, hospitals, universities and other not-for-profit organizations.
ACCT 320
3.00
Covers advanced individual tax topics such as cost recovery, itemized deductions, passive activity losses, AMT and complex basis rules, and covers the operation and formation of C corporations.
ACCT 322; ISOM 310 or ISOM 423
3.00
The design, operation, and use of accounting information systems. The functional relationships of the AIS within an organization are examined. A background in automated data processing, along with the important human and organizational considerations in system design and implementation, are also covered.
ACCT 321 AND ACCT 331
3.00
An advanced study of auditing process and philosophy. Preparation of audit working papers supporting an audit examination, and the report and opinion of the auditor to management, stockholders, and others are covered. This communications intensive course deals with internal auditing, environmental compliance and systems assurance.
ACCT 322, and Junior standing
3.00
Coverage of accounting issues and procedures involve in business combinations and consolidated financial statement, partnerships, multinational issues and foreign currency issues.
ACCT 431 (may be taken Concurrently)
3.00
Addresses the non-technical foundations of accounting for CFOs, Audit Partners, FASB Members, and other leadership roles in accounting and finance. Core elements include knowledge leadership, networking, and innovation. Subject matter combines current financial issues with traditional and radical concepts. However, the primary objective is to provide practice in forming and expressing opinions and taking a stand, using communication for impact, anticipating and managing ethical conflicts, and clarifying ones own guiding principles.
ACCT 322, ACCT 331 or approval from dept. chair
3.00
Independent study allows students to expand their classroom experience by completing research in an area of interest not already covered by Suffolk courses. The student designs a unique project and finds a full-time faculty member with expertise in that topic who agrees to sponsor it and provide feedback as the proposal is refined. A well designed and executed research project broadens and/or deepens learning in a major or minor area of study and may also enhance a students marketability to potential future employers. Students cannot register for an Independent Study until a full proposal is approved by the faculty sponsor, department chair, and academic dean. Many Independent study proposals require revisions before approval is granted; even with revisions independent study approval is NOT guaranteed. Students are strongly encouraged to submit a proposal in enough time to register for a different course if the proposal is not accepted. For complete instructions, see the SBS Independent/Directed Study Agreement and Proposal form available online.
Instructors consent required
0.00
Candidates require an approved record of 150 hours of accounting experience. Experience may be acquired through internship, part-or full-time employment,or cooperative education. Approval must be obtained from the Accounting Department. Accounting majors must register for the experiential component during the semester in which they will complete the required 150 hours.
Professors: Rahman
Associate Professors: Angelini, Fuerman, Markelevich, Muehlmann, Shaw (Chair)
Assistant Professors: Demirkan, Feng, Gomaa, Mistry, Nolder, Riley
Instructors: Driscoll, Potvin, Whalen
Executive in Residence: Pustorino
