It's no exaggeration to say it: Accountants are at the heart of our economic system. They perform critically important functions for companies, organizations, corporations, and even governments. Quantitative skills. People skills. You're going to need them both. At LaGrange College, you'll develop them both.

And since CEOs come from accounting backgrounds more often than any other profession, this career ladder can take you to the very top.

What do accountants do?

Financial Audits
Check the accounting ledgers and financial statements within corporations and government.

Budget Analysis
Become skilled in devising a company's financial plan, and you'll be at the heart of any company or corporation.

Financial Statements
Preparing financial statements means more than spreadsheets and ledgers. It means close consultation with company leaders, not to mention strategic planning.

Management Accounting
Consider the big picture. (Accountants nearly always do.) Management accounting means way more than just capital budgeting and financial analysis. It also means thinking strategically, working alongside marketing and finance to develop new business.

Tax
Want to be in high demand? Get a thorough understanding of economics and the tax code, and you will be. All companies count on accountants to guide them through the complexities of the tax code.

Where do accountants work?
Public Accounting Firms
These firms form working partnerships with individuals, businesses, and governments and offer advancement possibilities from entry-level staff accountant to senior partner. Multinational "Big Five" firms like KPMG and Ernst & Young provide job opportunities across the country and the world.

Government
Whether your interest is on the local, state, or federal level, you can get experience in administering and formulating budgets, tracking costs, and analyzing programs.

Corporations
Work in an "in-house" accounting department and you'll prepare financial statements, tracks costs, handle tax issues, and work on international transactions. And within a company, you can work your way up to posts like audit manager, tax manager, cost accounting manager, controller, financial planner, or even treasurer.

Solo
Have an entrepreneurial streak? Many CPAs work for themselves as accountants for hire. Work as a solo accountant and you'll have to build up your own clientele and manage your own company. Doing so means closer contact with clients and a high degree of independence.

Upon completion of a degree from the Business Department, a student should be able to
	Synthesize and make connections among different ideas, as well as demonstrate the ability to think creatively and critically, and to formulate logical arguments.
	Show an intrinsic desire to learn and a curiosity about the world and about business by actively participating in class, group work, and individual research.
	Formulate and defend ethical judgments and develop an understanding of individual moral responsibility, particularly in a group or corporate setting.
	Communicate in a professional manner, both orally and in writing, using technology appropriately.
	Work in teams and demonstrate an understanding of interpersonal relations, and the leadership and followership processes.
	Accept and embrace risk and uncertainty in the business environment.