The College of the Holy Cross’ accounting program ranks No. 3 in Accounting Degree Review’s “Top 10 Undergraduate Accounting Programs in Massachusetts.” According to Accounting Degree Review, the list “was formulated by reviewing how each school ranked in websites and publications like U.S. News and World Report, Forbes, Princeton Review, and Public Accounting Report (PAR).” Additional criteria include accreditation, academic quality, cost, return on investment, and reputation in the field as viewed by peers and employers.
“We are delighted to see Holy Cross recognized as one of the top accounting programs in Massachusetts,” says Nancy Baldiga, professor of accounting and the program’s coordinator at the College. “My colleagues and I enjoy working closely with students, challenging them as we help prepare them to serve as leaders in the accounting profession and their communities. We are grateful for the dedication of our students and the continuing support of our alumni."
Housed in the economics and accounting department, Holy Cross is one of the only liberal arts colleges in the U.S. to offer a full accounting major. Each year, the four largest international accounting firms recruit on campus to select students for summer internships and full-time jobs. “Our talented students offer these employers an ideal combination of technical, communication, and leadership skills,” Baldiga says. “Although the program is small, it has an excellent reputation.”
Over the last five years, approximately 70 percent of accounting majors have accepted positions with the four largest international public accounting firms, while the remainder joined firms in private industry, smaller regional accounting firms or enrolled in law or graduate school. The curriculum also permits students to pursue careers in business, government and nonprofit institutions.
This “Holy Cross in the News” item by Emma Collins ’16.
