The Future of Accounting Education: A Regional Perspective

Accounting education is under pressure to change its current teaching methods. In this study, the authors surveyed employers of their university's accounting graduates and members of a local CPA chapter to ascertain which skills are important for new graduates and which educational innovations are effective. The top-rated four professional skills were analytical/critical thinking, written communication, oral communication, and decision-making. The top three technology skills included spreadsheet software, Windows, and word-processing software. The top education innovation was internships. These results agree with a national survey completed in 1999.