Launch a High-Demand Career in Accounting
Undergraduate and Graduate Programs Built for the CPA and Beyond
Rigorous Coursework, Real-World Preparation
Accounting is consistently ranked among the most stable and in-demand professions in the U.S. At Stony Brook University's College of Business, you can pursue accounting at both the undergraduate and graduate level — with programs designed to prepare you for the CPA exam and a competitive career in public accounting, corporate finance, or advisory services. Our curriculum combines technical rigor with real-world application, giving you the foundation employers are looking for.
Undergraduate Accounting Programs Graduate Accounting Programs Accounting Recruitment Accounting Case Competition
In New York and nearly every state, you must have 150 credit hours of study for CPA eligibility, 30 credits more than the typical undergraduate degree, making graduate education a necessity. And your 150 credits cannot just be any credits – they need to include 36 credits of business and 33 credits of accounting.
Undergraduate Accounting Programs
Accounting Minor
The Accounting Minor provides students with a strong academic foundation in accounting, serving as a basis for further advanced study at the graduate level. Students who declare the minor often continue their accounting education by enrolling in the MBA or MS in Accounting and Analytics (MSAA) program to prepare for the Uniform Certified Public Accountancy (CPA) exam and a career in public accounting.
The current version of the Accounting Minor will remain unchanged and open to all students through Spring 2026. Beginning in Fall 2026, the minor will be revised and offered exclusively to non-business students, while business students who wish to focus on accounting will have the opportunity to switch to the new Accounting Major.
In summary:
- Accounting Minor (current version): Available through Spring 2026 for all students.
- Accounting Minor (revised version): Effective Fall 2026, available to non-business students only.
- Accounting Major: Available Fall 2026 and beyond for business students interested in pursuing accounting more deeply.
This structure ensures flexibility and provides clear pathways for students interested in accounting.
Accounting Major
The Accounting Major provides students a foundation in financial reporting, taxation, auditing, and managerial accounting—supported by essential coursework in business analytics, finance, and operations. Students graduate with the technical knowledge, analytical skills, and professional insight needed to excel across the accounting field.
Graduate Accounting Programs
Stony Brook has two pathways for students to attain the additional 30 credits to meet the 150 credit hour requirement, as well as be prepared to sit for the CPA exam: The MBA in Accounting and the MS in Accounting and Analytics.
Accounting Prerequisites for Graduate Programs
Stony Brook University's College of Business graduate accounting programs require specific prerequisite courses. Complete the Accounting Prerequisite Review Formso that our admissions team can assess what classes you may need to take prior to applying and/or starting a graduate program in accounting at Stony Brook.
MBA in Accounting Requirements
Minimum of 18 credits in accounting to include:
- Financial Accounting
- Managerial or Cost Accounting
- Auditing
- US Federal Income Taxation
- 3 credits in general business courses
Applicants who have not completed US Federal Income Taxation should contact Cobgraduate@stonybrook.edu for options to meet this requirement.
MS in Accounting & Analytics Requirements
Minimum of 12 credits in accounting to include:
- Financial Accounting
- Managerial or Cost Accounting
- Auditing
- US Federal Income Taxation
- 30 credits in general business courses
Applicants who have not completed US Federal Income Taxation should contact Cobgraduate@stonybrook.edu for options to meet this requirement.
Accounting Student Recruitment on Campus
Beta Alpha Psi (petitioning chapter) is a student organization that meets weekly under the guidance of Professor Christie Comunale, and hosts accounting firm talks, career readiness programs and networking events. Since 2013, The College of Business, in association with the Stony Brook University Career Center and our accounting organizations, has hosted an accounting firm/student networking event in the Fall semester, giving students and firms the opportunity to discuss internships and full time jobs. Many students have received positions in the big four, as well as other sized firms, based on the events taking place on campus. “We want to provide our students with the best possible academic experience, and this includes much more than sitting in the classroom,” states Dr. Comunale. She continues, “The attention that we are getting from the accounting profession speaks volumes to the excellence of student we are turning out. Our graduates come equipped with the knowledge and the professionalism that is essential to succeed in this field.”
If you would like to speak with an advisor about accounting programs, please email CoBundergraduate@stonybrook.edu or call 631-632-7171.