Bachelor's Degree in Accounting
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
The bachelor's degree program in Accounting is perfect for students who enjoy working with numbers, financial analysis, and strategic decision-making. Graduates gain expertise in auditing, tax preparation, and financial reporting, preparing them for careers as accountants, financial analysts, or auditors in fields such as corporate finance, public accounting, and government.
Program Overview
Learn the universal language of business in the Von Allmen School of Accountancy. Your accounting degree will prepare you for a wide array of professional opportunities analyzing key financial data and providing the insight all companies need to make decisions and formulate strategy.
Our Accreditation
The Gatton College of Business and Economics has been accredited by AACSB International, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business since 1926. Similarly, the accounting programs within the Von Allmen School of Accountancy have been accredited by AACSB International since 1988 soon after AACSB began offering separate accreditation for accounting programs. Accreditation by AACSB has been earned by less than 5% of the world's business programs and demonstrates a commitment to ongoing continuous improvement to ensure that the institution will continue to deliver the highest quality of education to students.
Related Careers
The Von Allmen School of Accountancy prepares students for careers in public and private accounting, business and industry, universities and government. The program is high touch in which many students develop a close working relationships with our dedicated faculty. Our students are regularly recruited by Deloitte, EY, KPMG, PwC, and many other large national, regional and local CPA firms, as well as major fortune 500 companies.
Examples of related careers:
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA) – Specialize in auditing, tax preparation, and financial consulting for individuals or organizations.
- Financial Analyst – Analyze financial data to guide investment decisions and business strategies.
- Management Accountant – Work within companies to manage budgets, analyze performance, and inform decision-making.
- Tax Specialist/Consultant – Provide expertise in tax compliance, planning, and strategy for businesses or individuals.
- Auditor – Conduct internal or external audits to ensure accuracy and compliance with financial regulations.
- Forensic Accountant – Investigate financial discrepancies, fraud, and legal disputes involving financial data.
- Controller/Comptroller – Oversee an organization’s accounting operations, including financial reporting and policy compliance.
- Chief Financial Officer (CFO) – Lead the financial strategy and operations of a company or organization.
Plan to Pursue Licensure Outside of Kentucky?
If you plan to obtain professional licensure outside of Kentucky, please refer to the Licensure page to confirm whether the program meets the educational requirements for professional licensure in your state of interest.
Admission Requirements
- Official High School Transcript with Pre-College Curriculum: View transcript requirements on the Undergraduate Admission webpage.
- Test Scores (optional): ACT or SAT scores can be submitted but are not required for university admission.
Any "Program Specific Requirements" that display below are specific to the program and will be required for admission to the program.
Application Requirements
Completed applications include an official high school transcript, application fee ($50 domestic/$60 international) and optional official ACT/SAT score (the University of Kentucky is test-optional for admission and scholarships through the 2028-29 academic year).
Program Specific Requirements
Students apply and enter this program as "Pre-Accounting" majors. Students are fully admitted to the program when they complete the pre-major requirements. View specifics in the Academic Catalog.
Application Deadlines
Freshman
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Early Action
- 12/01/2025 Apply early to be considered for Lewis Honors College, scholarships, or on-campus living.
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Regular Decision
- 02/15/2026
Transfer
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Fall Scholarship
- 06/15/2025 Apply early to be considered for scholarships.
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Fall
- 08/01/2025
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Spring
- 11/15/2025
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Summer
- 04/15/2026
FIND OUT EXACTLY
What You'll Learn
Students in the Bachelor of Science in Accounting program gain a strong foundation in financial reporting, managerial accounting, taxation, and auditing. Through a combination of technical coursework and real-world application, the program equips students with the analytical and problem-solving skills needed to interpret financial data, support business decision-making, and ensure regulatory compliance. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in public accounting, corporate finance, government, and nonprofit organizations, as well as for pursuing professional certifications such as the CPA. Expand the menu below to view a sample curriculum plan.
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Transfer in using our KCTCS Pathway
This program has a degree pathway from KCTCS, allowing students a seamless transfer process to obtain their bachelor's degree from the University of Kentucky.
View Pathways
Get a Head Start with an
Accelerated Pathway
This program is part of the Accelerated Master's Pathways program. If you plan to obtain a related master's degree, this program can save you time and money with dual credit hours when you sign up.
Attend an Upcoming Event for this Program
These events are designed to answer your questions and give you a glimpse into what it’s like to be a part of our program.
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Explore Financial Aid Options
Undergraduate degree-seeking students have access to a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans, designed to make education more affordable.
Get Involved!
Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!
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Complete the form to get the latest updates on this program, including special events and application deadlines.
Discover your Future
At the University of Kentucky, we provide personalized support, innovative resources, and countless opportunities to help you turn your aspirations into achievements.
