Projected accounting job openings per year
2024 CPA firm starting salaries
Employers who actively recruit UNCW accounting students
Certified Public Accountants (CPA's) audit the financial statements of publicly traded companies, help individuals and businesses minimize the impact of taxes, ensure that information systems protect sensitive data, analyze information to identify opportunities to improve profitability and efficiency, perform due diligence for mergers and acquisitions
Industry and government accountants plan operations and prepare budgets, manage costs and investigate unexpected financial results, develop policies to ensure that enterprise resources are safeguarded, and provide timely reports to help managers control operations. Government accountants focus on ensuring that public resources are used to benefit citizens in accordance with the law. Accountants in industry may earn the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) credential from the Institute of Management Accounting.
Accountants who specialize in forensics investigate financial crimes such as fraud and embezzlement, help insurance companies evaluate claims, serve as expert witnesses in legal disputes, especially cases involving business valuation. Accountants working in fraud and forensics may earn specialized certifications such as the Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) credential.
High net worth individuals rely on accountants for guidance in investing assets, minimizing exposure to taxes, and planning for retirement and transferring wealth to heirs. CPAs who work in this field can complete specialized training and earn a certificate in Personal Financial Planning that covers topics including retirement, estate planning, risk management and insurance. Wealth management specialists rely on extensive knowledge of the tax code.
An accounting information systems (AIS) career combines elements of business management, auditing, information management and accounting. AIS professionals’ expertise includes IT hardware, accounting software, and cybersecurity. Their focus is on ensuring that systems collect, store, and protect sensitive financial data, as well as constructing reports that meet managers’ needs. The preferred credential for an AIS professional is the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) which includes training on emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and blockchain.
We go beyond traditional classrooms, providing hands-on experiences that transform knowledge into action. Our commitment to applied learning empowers students to bridge theory with real-world challenges. We offer a range of opportunities including:
We place a high priority on preparing students for internships and providing networking opportunities to meet potential employers. Our students are highly successful securing opportunities with all of the Big 4 accounting firms and other leading firms throughout the region and industry. Accounting internships are paid, can earn academic credit, and often lead to offers of permanent employment.
We also have a dedicated Career Success Center within Cameron that helps our students discover their passions and achieve their professional career goals by providing career coaching and consultation as well as helping in your job search.
The Cameron Executive Network (CEN) is a volunteer network made up of current and retired business executives who are dedicated to enhancing the education and career development of undergraduate Cameron School of Business students through individual mentoring.
Detailed technical knowledge, experience using relevant software and technology, and internship experience in leading firms will prepare you for a career with unlimited potential for personal growth and financial rewards. UNCW's world class accounting faculty takes a personal interest in preparing you for success.
