How do we reverse the decline in accounting majors?

Abstract

The accounting profession is an integral part of the business world. With an undergraduate degree in accounting, students have various career paths. In recent years, there has been a decline in the number of students selecting accounting as a major, creating concern and a demand for such students. This study surveyed students enrolled in three different introductory business classes. They were asked to identify what is important to them when selecting a major and whether they can achieve that with an accounting major. Additionally, the students were asked if there are initiatives that can occur in introductory business classes that would make students interested in becoming an accounting major. Findings intimate that a collaborative effort is required between higher education (instructors and institutions) and the profession to improve accounting major enrollment.