LSU of Alexandria is launching a new accounting degree in August announced Dr. Kent Lachney, CPA, Coordinator of Accounting, for the LSUA Department of Business Administration.
Now students in central Louisiana and throughout the state can earn a Bachelor of Science in Accounting in both a traditional and 100% online format. “The degree equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary for successful completion of the CPA exam and for entry into public accounting, industry, or governmental/non-profit employment,” states Dr. Lachney.
“An accounting program which prepares students for the CPA exam is much needed in central Louisiana,” says Business Administration Chair Dr. Randall Dupont. Studies show that the central Louisiana region needs approximately twice as many accountants than are currently employed by area businesses. In addition, the Louisiana Workforce Commission has rated the field of accounting as a 5-star occupation for its high pay and stability.
The new degree follows the department’s recent announcement of accreditation. In June, LSUA received a 10-year internationally-recognized accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). “This accreditation certifies LSUA’s business program meets the highest academic standards,” says Dr. Dupont. The new accounting degree in combination with accreditation means LSUA offers an excellent educational opportunity in central Louisiana and for working professionals online.
Dr. Lachney states, “Accounting graduates can pursue a variety of paths after graduation.” Most seek careers in public accounting (including auditing, tax preparation, and business consulting) and private accounting (including financial accounting, management accounting, and internal auditing). Some graduates continue their education and earn a Master of Science in Accounting or Master of Science in Business Administration, with or without a concentration in Accounting. Others attend law school, he says.
Dr. Lachney and faculty have done an outstanding job in developing the curriculum, says Dr. Dupont. “Dr. Lachney originated the new degree after seeing the need among area employers. With his professional experience and CPA credentials, he was able to develop a student-centric program that will prepare students for a successful career in accounting and, at the same time, meet the needs of organizations for degreed accountants.”
Dr. Lachney expects the new accounting degree to attract both on campus and online students to fill the workforce need and provide high paying jobs in the community. In addition, working professionals who already have a bachelor’s degree in business or non-business programs can enroll for classes to meet the education requirements to sit for the CPA exam.
In anticipation of the new program, the business department launched an Accounting Club this past year. Dr. Lachney, the club’s advisor, explained the purpose of the Accounting Club: “We strive to bring professions in a variety of fields and career stages to campus to show students the possibilities that exist following graduation. So far, guests have included local CPAs in industry and public practice, an FBI special agent, and other accounting professionals.”
The new degree combined with accreditation solidifies LSUA as a premier destination for a quality education in business and accounting. For more information on the accounting degree at LSU of Alexandria, please email Dr. Kent Lachney, CPA,, at klachney@lsua.edu.