Accounting

Whether you’re an entrepreneur looking to gain a foundation in accounting, someone in another field looking to expand your financial management knowledge, or a current professional in need of additional courses to fulfill a CPA-licensing requirement, this program may be ideal for you.

The College of General Studies has partnered with the University of Pittsburgh’s College of Business Administration to offer this 24-credit post-baccalaureate certificate in accounting. The program is designed for working adults, with courses offered part-time, in the evenings.

 

The CGS Difference

Our certificate program draws on the resources and expertise of Pitt’s College of Business Administration, the undergraduate division of Katz Graduate School of Business.

 

*This is a standalone certificate program and cannot be completed in conjunction with an undergraduate degree.

Program Expectations

Upon completing the accounting certificate program, students will be able to:

  • Apply substantial knowledge of accounting
  • Enhance their business careers
  • Meet many of the requirements to sit for the certified public accountant (CPA) examination in Pennsylvania.

Note: Becoming a CPA in the state of Pennsylvania will require 150 credit hours of coursework, 36 credits of which must be in accounting, auditing, finance, tax, and business law. At that time, completing the certificate program will no longer be sufficient preparation to sit for the CPA exam. Visit also the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants for details about becoming a CPA.

Who Should Participate

Professionals who already have earned a bachelor's degree in any field and wish to develop careers in accounting or another business field in which substantial knowledge of accounting is an asset.

Admission Requirements

A bachelor’s degree and a 2.75 or higher cumulative grade point average are required for admission to the program.

Credit Requirements

  • The post-baccalaureate accounting certificate program requires 24 credits and a minimum grade of C (2.0) or better for all courses required for the program.  
  • Credits earned at other accredited educational institutions will be evaluated for transfer. However, a minimum of 15 credits must be earned at the University of Pittsburgh.
  • Students must follow the approved prerequisites for each course. 

*All classes are offered on-campus and in the evening unless otherwise specified. View the full course catalog descriptions and freguency of offerings here.

Required Courses: (21 credits)

Complete all seven required courses.

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Electives: (3 credits)

Choose one course from the list of approved electives.

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Note: Requirements are subject to change. Check with an academic advisor before registering.

Program Planning Checklist

Download our handy Accounting certificate checklist (PDF) to plan and track your progress in the program.