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June 18, 2012

ULM program meets growing employment opportunities in accounting

Accounting and auditing will be among the fastest-growing occupations by 2018, according to the Louisiana Workforce Commission.

The University of Louisiana at Monroe College of Business is launching a new program that will empower professionals to benefit from these expanding fields.

The University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors approved ULM's proposed Post Baccalaureate Certificate in Accounting at their meeting today in Baton Rouge. 

Accounting and auditor positions are expected to grow 16 percent by 2018 in northeast Louisiana.

The average salary for accountants in the northeast region was $52,380 in 2010, according to the Louisiana Workforce Commission

"This innovative new program is consistent with our strategy to address the workforce needs of our region," said ULM President Dr. Nick J. Bruno.

A baccalaureate degree is required for entrance into this certification program.

Thus, students will most likely already have gained professional experience in the workplace, said Michelle McEacharn, Ph.D., the program department chair and professor in accounting.

"While in the workplace, they realize how important the accounting function is to a business, and they realize the opportunities an accounting background would provide to them. You can go just about anywhere in a company with an accounting background. I am so excited about this opportunity."

College of Business Dean Ron Berry, Ph.D., said the new certificate program will provide a "valuable academic credential in the job marketplace." 

“We worked closely with the Monroe Chamber of Commerce, Northeast Chapter of the Louisiana Society of CPA’s, the Ouachita Parish Workforce Investment Board, and employers like CenturyLink, to develop this program to meet the demands for well-trained accountants for our region.” 

For more information about the program, please contact the College of Business at 318-342-1100.

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