Christian Colleges That Offer Accounting

By Calli Wolfenden, Staff Writer
 

However, an accounting degree isn’t just beneficial for students interested in the secular world of business. Accounting also has a place in ministry and the Church.

Luke 14:28
“Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?”

The Lord cautions us to be wise with our money, and how we use it, and this applies directly to the church as a whole. Churches need financial officers, particularly for budgeting and allocation of funds, and for maintaining non-profit status in regard to ministries. An accounting degree gives someone the know-how to be able to properly manage funds raised by the church, budget and allocate the money according to the ministries that need it and the people on payroll, and to make sure that the church as a ministry complies with laws and tax regulations that come with being a non-profit, so as to keep the status active.

Having knowledge of accounting and experience in the field can also make you a desirable advisor in ministry. Knowing how to manage funds, use money wisely, and financially plan well for the future can greatly benefit a ministry and its leaders as they focus on being good stewards with what God has provided.

The possibilities that face a student who wants to major in accounting are wide open. If you like numbers, working with people, and keeping everything held together around you, then a major in accounting could hold a promising future for you.

By Calli Wolfenden, Staff Writer
 

Accounting is the practice of recording, tracking, analyzing, and reporting the final transactions of a business or person. However, the responsibilities and skills of an accountant go beyond the cut and dry definition of accounting. Known as the “language of business,” an accountant’s sphere of influence reaches the heart of a business. Accountants speak the language of money, responsibility, and wise spending, some of the very pillars that businesses and individuals are built on.

An accounting degree from a Christian college will prepare you for the business world or a career filled with helping people manage one of their most valuable assets. There are also many options for accountants outside of the typical “Accountant” title.

Some examples of careers for students who major in accounting are:

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA): A CPA is a certified accountant (who has passed the CPA examination) who provides a range of accounting services to private, public, or government entities. They often help with auditing, tax preparation, financial reporting and analysis, regulatory compliance, and financial planning for their clients.
• Auditor: Auditors can be part of the company or an external party who examines a company’s financial statements and records and makes sure everything is in compliance with financial and tax regulations and that there are no mistakes. They also assess how effective a company’s risk management and controls are.
• Management Accountant: An account that focuses on analyzing financial data in order to provide advice or increase profitability within an organization. Typically, they work with management to help strategically plan and allocate funds and budget in the best interests of the company.
• Government Accountant: Government accountants manage and audit financial records that are dedicated to government projects or public use to make sure everything is in compliance with laws and regulations. They may also play a part in budgeting and financial planning and analysis to aid in decision-making for government officials.
• Forensic Accountant: A forensic accountant is an accounting specialist who investigates financial records for cases involving fraud, embezzlement, or other financial crimes. Forensic accountants analyze financial data in search of irregularities, illicit spending, or misrepresentation, and they sometimes appear in court as an expert witness.
• Tax Accountant: Tax accountants specialize in tax planning and strategies, filing tax returns, and ensuring compliance with tax laws for their clients (businesses or individuals). They can also assist in resolving tax-related issues and help ensure their clients are following all tax regulations while still getting the most return possible.
• Financial Analyst: A financial analyst evaluates financial trends and market data to help their clients make informed investment decisions. They may also prepare reports and forecasts and make recommendations for investment strategies or financial planning.
• Information Technology Accountant: An IT accountant bridges the gap between IT and accounting, being knowledgeable in both areas. They implement and maintain accounting software and ensure accuracy and security of financial information. IT accountants streamline financial processes, reporting, and also ensure compliance with relevant regulations involving technology and accounting.

Some Accounting jobs may require more education than just a bachelor’s degree, such as Certifications (requiring closer to 150 semester credit hours) or graduate degrees. Most entry level positions will see a bachelor’s degree as sufficient education but may require/prefer candidates with some experience or an internship under their belt. The average salary for accountants is around $64,100, however it may start lower for those coming right out of college.

Getting a degree in accounting from a Christian college is a near-guarantee for a job. While there is no specific statistic for placement rates of accountants right out of college for any recent years, the need for accountants is always present so long as there are businesses or people needing financial advice. Accounting/financial experts are usually in high demand, making an accounting degree a beneficial path for anyone with a passion for numbers, organization, and helping others.

A degree in accounting provides many skills that can carry over into other areas of life. Accountants learn to be frugal and analytical, having a keen understanding of how best to save, spend, and manage funds in a number of settings. They also cultivate critical thinking, flexibility, and attention to detail in their arsenal. Unsurprisingly, many CEO’s get their start in accounting, as it prepares them to understand and manage the ins and outs of business. Students who major in accounting are well prepared for life in business.

Work Cited: 

• “Accountant Salary in United States.” Indeed, 18 Aug. 2024, www.indeed.com/career/accountant/salaries.