As an academic field, accounting has experienced a substantial infusion of new concepts and quantitative methodologies. These developments have aligned accounting with economics and finance more closely than ever before.
A literate understanding of accounting requires a substantial background in mathematics, probability, statistics, economics, and finance. This background is acquired through formal coursework during the first and second years. The courses serve as pre- and co-requisites for the four-course sequence, Doctoral Seminars in Accounting (PHDBA 229A-D), which is taken during the first two years.
Students gain additional exposure to research through:
In addition, the accounting group links students with the real world through the Center for Financial Reporting and Management.
Students can also teach. It is common for second-, third- and fourth-year students to serve as teaching assistants and, occasionally, instructors for undergraduate accounting classes.