Top Reasons to Consider Getting an Accounting Degree in OK

May 10, 2022

Today, countless career-minded students are getting an accounting degree, thanks to the versatility and high earning potential this field can provide.

Considered one of the most desirable careers – both in the business sector and outside it – the job outlook for accountancy tends to remain stable no matter what course the national economy might take.

In Oklahoma, getting an accounting degree at Oklahoma Baptist University offers a variety of advantages.

What Can You Do with an Accounting Degree?

Many accounting students go on to obtain their Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation, which they might then use to open their own accounting consultancy firm. However, this is only one way in which a graduate might choose to apply their degree.

Virtually every industry and sector requires accounting services. In fact, most businesses and organizations have an in-house accounting department. This means that you could pursue an accounting career in whatever field holds intrigue for you.

Within the field, graduates might gravitate toward a specialization, such as auditing, taxes, forensic accounting, business administration, accounting information technology, etc. You could also consider getting an advanced degree or studying to take a certification exam, such as that which is required for becoming a licensed CPA.

How Much Do Accountants Make?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median pay for accountants and auditors in 2021 was $77,250, or just over $37 per hour. This average pay rate assumes having a bachelor's degree in accounting but no experience.

Although the average accountant salary varies depending on several factors – education level, experience, industry, etc. – this career field can be lucrative for those who choose to pursue it.

Job growth projections are also strong, according to the BLS data. With growth projected at 7% between 2020 and 2030, that means approximately 135,000 new accountant jobs are expected to become available each year, over the coming decade.

Which Accounting Degree Is Best for You?

You have multiple options when considering what type of accounting degree you should pursue. Although some students seek out a two-year (Associate’s) degree, many more pursue a four-year degree.

At OBU, you have a few Bachelor’s of Accountancy options to consider. For each of these degree programs, students enjoy small class sizes and abundant personal attention, helping to ensure success.

Bachelor of Professional Accountancy (BPA)

The Oklahoma Baptist University BPA degree program includes a variety of coursework in core business principles and specialized accounting focus. This well-rounded curriculum, requiring 120 total hours for graduation, also includes supportive core classes and an engaging array of common core courses that include science, mathematics, history and more.

Bachelor of Professional Accountancy (BPA) – Interdisciplinary Emphasis

The degree program for BPA with an interdisciplinary emphasis is especially popular at OBU, particularly for aspiring students who seek a career in a specific business vertical. This degree is similar in basis to the BPA degree described above. However, it adds an additional 30 credit hours in a field of specialization. You can choose from marketing, international business, management, finance, or computer information systems (CIS).

Minor in Accounting

Getting a minor in accounting is a great way to supplement other degree programs – particularly a degree in another field of business. OBU’s Paul Dickinson School of Business offers a variety of in-demand degree program options, ranging from Finance and Computer Science to Management and Marketing. This combination opens the door to a wide variety of career options.

Each of these degree programs subjects students to a rigorous course of study, to best prepare them for a bright future. You will graduate with all the skills you need to pursue whatever your goals might be.

Currently, we have graduates working within the Big 4 accounting firms (Deloitte, Ernst & Young, KPMG, and PricewaterhouseCoopers or PWC) as well as some of the nation’s leading for-profit and non-profit organizations.

Explore an Accounting Degree at Oklahoma Baptist University

Oklahoma Baptist University is shaping the future with faith-forward educational programs. Our programs are transforming minds, creating a strong sense of purpose along with enduring confidence and compassion. Our students are continually challenged to strive for excellence and to work toward fulfilling their highest purpose.

With some of the most affordable degree programs in Oklahoma, we are committed to making it achievable for every student who seeks the many benefits of a private, Christian university education.

We invite all potential students to visit our campus at scenic Bison Hill. You will have the opportunity to talk with current and prospective students and meet members of our faculty and staff. Our preview day is one of the best ways to see and experience it all, but you can always schedule an individual, in-person visit based on your schedule.

Contact us now to request information about our exceptional school, or you can apply online now to get started with getting an accounting degree at Oklahoma Baptist University.