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B.S. in Accounting

Overview

Accounting is a complex, in-demand career — one that requires both a high level of technical skill and unwavering ethical standards. While technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are transforming the accounting profession, the demand for more qualified accountants with higher-level skills continues to grow. Biola University's accounting major curriculum is aligned with current industry needs, preparing graduates for successful careers in public accounting, private industry, and beyond.

In addition to its strong curriculum, expert faculty members and biblical integration, Biola’s accounting program offers several key advantages:

  • In addition to honing technical expertise, students in Biola’s Accounting program develop transferable skills in career-relevant areas, including financial analysis, management advising, valuation services and auditing, while building proficiency working with industry software such as AI, Tableau, Excel and data visualization platforms.
  • Biola accounting graduates have a very high job placement record — including placement with the “Big Four” national accounting firms — due in part to their reputation of being trustworthy, principled financial professionals.
  • The Biola Accounting Society is a great resource that hosts meetings with local professionals, offers career guidance and sponsors an annual “Meet the Firms” event featuring national, regional and local CPA firms.
  • Biola’s Crowell School of Business has been accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) since 1997.

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Courses

What will I study as an accounting major?

Throughout the accounting program, there will be a focus on business law, mathematics, economics and accounting principles. Some of the topics and course highlights include:

  • Corporate accounting concepts and techniques
  • The legal and regulatory environment of business
  • Strategic management through research
  • Practical application of generative AI, predictive analytics and automated workflows in modern tax and auditing environments
  • Federal income taxation of individuals and entities
  • Auditing standards and procedures
  • International trade and accounting
  • Supply and demand analysis
  • Principles of management in a global environment
  • Ethics and faith in business practices

Bible and Theology Coursework

As part of Biola’s commitment to a biblically centered education, most undergraduate students complete 30 credits of biblical and theological studies as a part of their degree program. Learn more about our Bible and theology core.

Career Outlook and Preparation

What can you do with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting?

One of the biggest advantages of an accounting degree is its versatility. Many career opportunities in audit, tax, consulting, business, government and law await future graduates of Biola's accounting program. As a well-equipped professional, you can expect to impact the world for Jesus Christ in professions such as:

  • CPA (Certified Public Accountant)
  • CFO (Chief Financial Officer)
  • Controller
  • Financial planner
  • Financial analyst
  • Forensic and fraud accountant
  • Financial consultant

Many Biola Crowell School of Business students move directly into professional roles at leading corporations across Southern California and around the world, while others pursue graduate studies. All accounting students complete at least one internship as part of their program, gaining valuable real-world experience, practical skills, and industry connections before graduation. Biola accounting students have worked with organizations such as:

  • Deloitte
  • KPMG
  • Ernst & Young
  • PwC
  • BDO
  • Grant Thorton
  • RSM
  • FBI
  • Walt Disney
  • Starbucks

90.91% accounting graduates were employed, continuing graduate education, or military service six months following graduation.
NACE First Destination Survey (FDS) 2024-2025

5% job growth

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth for accountants and auditors is projected to be faster than average between 2024 and 2034.

BLS projections are not specific to Biola University students or graduates.


Kevin Vandekamp

Biola's accounting program does an excellent job of preparing students for the workforce. Professors willingly help you in your studies, your recruiting and any other questions you may have.

Kevin Vandekamp
Accounting, B.A., MPAcc.

Admissions

Admissions Process

Learn about Biola’s admissions requirements, steps to apply, application deadlines and more at our Undergraduate Admissions page.

Program-Specific Admissions Requirements

Admission to Biola University does not automatically guarantee admission as an accounting major within the Crowell School of Business, nor does it grant immediate permission to enroll in upper-division accounting courses.

To officially enter the program, students must meet the following criteria (applicable to the 2026 Catalog onwards):

  1. Complete, with a minimum of a "C" (2.0) grade in each of the following courses, or the equivalent; with a cumulative grade point average of 2.50:
    1. BUSN 211 — Principles of Accounting I
    2. BUSN 212 — Principles of Accounting II
    3. BUSN 240 — Principles of Management
  2. Accomplish an overall cumulative GPA of 2.50 in all college level course work completed at the time of formal application to the Crowell School of Business.
  3. Complete all portions of the application for admission to the Crowell School of Business. The application should be filed the semester in which the student is in progress of completing the prerequisite course requirements.
  4. Meet approval of the academic advisor of the Crowell School of Business. The process may require an interview.

Schedule a Visit

Learn more about this program by attending an upcoming event for prospective students and parents, or by scheduling a personalized visit.

Visit Biola

Tuition and Financial Aid

Attaining a degree from Biola is more affordable than you might think — dramatically lower than the “sticker price” in most cases — with 100% of incoming undergraduate students receiving some form of financial aid.

Faculty


Learning Opportunities

The Biola Accounting Society

Participating in the Biola Accounting Society is a vital part of making accounting students successful in the business world. Professional development opportunities and highlights include:

  • Alumni Network Access — Students connect with Biola accounting alumni working across public accounting, industry, and government, gaining mentorship and insight from those who have walked the same path.
  • Professional Networking — Regular events with local practitioners offer students firsthand perspective on the accounting profession, along with practical guidance on recruiting and interviewing techniques.
  • Meet the Firms — This annual signature event pairs panel discussions with a career fair, connecting students directly with representatives from local accounting firms, including the Big Four, as well as other public, private, and governmental organizations, as they pursue internship and job opportunities."Meet the Firms," an annual event consisting of panel discussions and a career fair, where students seek to obtain internship and job opportunities professional mixer.
  • Additional Development Activities — Resume workshops, mock interviews, firm office tours, and social events held throughout the year further sharpen students' professional readiness and build community within the program.

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Format

You'll study in person at Biola University's campus in Southern California.

Total Credits

Total program credits include major-specific courses and Biola's core curriculum.

Standard Completion Time

This indicates the standard duration of this program. Completion time may vary depending on transferred coursework and preferred courseload.

Accreditation

Biola University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission. Additional accreditations may apply to specific programs.