As an accounting major at Lehigh University, you can lay the groundwork for a multitude of career paths. Specializing in a particular concentration or track is an essential part of that journey. A concentration helps focus your studies and develop expertise in areas that align with your career aspirations. Here is a closer look at the concentration tracks available for Lehigh Accounting majors.
Public Accounting Assurance and Tax Services
This concentration is tailored for students who are passionate about public accounting and interested in working with a diverse range of clients. The focus is on developing strong skills in auditing, tax compliance, and advisory services.
Career paths
Conduct financial statement audits, evaluate internal controls, and ensure that organizations comply with regulations and accounting standards.
Advise clients on tax planning, compliance, and strategies to minimize tax liabilities effectively.
This track is essential to help you prepare for the CPA exam. Becoming a CPA is crucial for advancing your career in public accounting and is required to pursue a career in audit or tax.
Specific Attributes
You will gain a comprehensive understanding of auditing procedures, learning how to critically assess financial records and ensure they meet required standards.
This concentration covers detailed aspects of tax law, including deductions, credits, and sophisticated tax planning strategies, equipping you to manage complex tax issues.
Public accountants often work closely with clients, providing essential insights into their financial operations and ensuring compliance with tax and accounting standards.
Advanced Opportunities
Lehigh offers advanced coursework in auditing techniques, tax strategy, and regulatory compliance. Additionally, internships with leading firms provide hands-on experience, allowing you to apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios and build a professional network.
Financial Services and Corporate Accounting
For students interested in applying their accounting skills within financial services or corporate environments, this concentration offers a blend of accounting and finance. This track prepares you for roles that require financial analysis and strategic decision-making.
Career paths
Analyze financial data, assess investment opportunities, and make recommendations based on your analysis.
Manage financial records, prepare budgets, and analyze financial statements to support strategic business decisions.
Oversee a company's financial operations, ensuring accurate financial reporting and adherence to internal controls.
Specific Attributes
This concentration provides a solid grounding in both accounting and finance, making you versatile in various roles within these fields.
You will develop the ability to assess financial health, identify growth opportunities, and make informed decisions that impact an organization's success.
Lehigh's strong reputation in accounting and finance ensures that graduates are well-prepared for roles in financial services and corporate accounting.
Advanced Opportunities
Students have access to specialized courses in financial analysis, corporate finance, and investment management. Networking events and internships with top financial institutions further enhance your understanding and prepare you for a successful career in this sector.
Information Technology
This concentration focuses on the intersection of technology and accounting, equipping students with the skills needed to manage the growing role of IT in financial systems.
Career paths
Evaluate and improve the effectiveness of an organization's information systems, focusing on data security and risk management.
Serve as a bridge between IT and business units, ensuring that technology solutions align with organizational goals.
Use advanced analytics tools to interpret financial data and provide actionable insights for decision-makers.
Specific Attributes
You will develop expertise in accounting information systems, cybersecurity, and data analytics—skills that are essential in today's digital landscape.
This concentration prepares you to navigate and leverage rapid technological advancements, ensuring that you can drive efficiency and innovation in accounting practices.
Combining accounting principles with IT knowledge, this concentration equips you with a unique skill set that is increasingly in demand.
Advanced Opportunities
Lehigh offers advanced courses in IT auditing, data analytics, and cybersecurity. Internships with top technology firms and accounting departments allow you to apply your skills in real-world environments, laying a strong foundation for a career that blends technology with accounting.
Choosing the right concentration is a significant step that will shape your career. It's important to consider where your interests lie and where you see yourself making the most impact. Lehigh's accounting program is designed not just to prepare you for your first job, but to set you up for long-term success in your chosen field. By selecting a concentration that aligns with your passions and goals, and with the support of Lehigh's community, you will be well-positioned to thrive in the dynamic and rewarding world of the Accounting Profession.
