KNOXVILLE, Tenn., Sept. 24, 2020 — Beginning spring semester 2021, King University will offer a Bachelor of Science in Accounting degree at its Hardin Valley campus in Knoxville.

The full-time, accelerated program is designed for students who have received an associate’s degree, wish to return to school and complete their degree, or desire to earn a second degree. Incoming transfer students with 76 approved credit hours from an accredited college can earn a Bachelor of Science in Accounting in four semesters, with classes meeting one night per week and online.

“We’re seeing a steady increase in the number of accounting jobs that require a high-quality, accredited degree for applicants, and we want to help broaden career paths and opportunities for students and working adults in the Knoxville region,” said Matt Roberts, Ed.D., provost of King. “The B.S. in Accounting is an academically challenging program that delivers expert guidance from professors who have extensive business experience in a variety of industries, equipping students with excellent critical thinking practices and real-world problem-solving skills.”

The new program provides full preparation for careers in public, private, or governmental accounting, and aligns with the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) and Certified Public Accountant (CPA) industry credentials by covering core concepts found on both exams.

Accountants make a median annual salary of $63,350, with those in the top earnings bracket ranking at or above the $120,000 range. According to statistics from the Bureau of Labor, accounting jobs are expected to grow 10% by 2026, with entry-level positions showing the strongest employment growth potential.

“This accelerated degree program will enable students to integrate the skills, theory, and training required for successful careers in accounting,” said Mark Pate, Ph.D., dean of the School of Business, Economics, and Technology. “The coursework will also provide comprehensive preparation for CMA and CPA certification, which provides an advantage in the job market since it demonstrates professional competence in the specialized fields of accounting and auditing. We are delighted to offer this new program to students throughout the Knoxville area, with classes beginning in January 2021.”

King University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).