Accounting Programs Advisory Council

Accounting Programs Advisory Council

Advancing Excellence, Ethics, and Innovation in Accounting Education
 

Overview

The Accounting Programs Advisory Council ensures that the College of Southern Maryland’s Accounting programs remain rigorous, relevant, and responsive to the evolving demands of the profession.

In alignment with the College of Southern Maryland Board of Trustees Policy EDU.511 – Program Advisory Councils, members serve as professional advisors, community liaisons, and advocates for continuous improvement. Their expertise strengthens CSM’s mission to prepare students for academic success, transfer opportunities, and meaningful careers in public, private, and governmental accounting.

Council members collaborate closely with faculty to evaluate emerging industry practices, identify skill gaps, and recommend updates that enhance curriculum quality, student learning, and CPA readiness.

Our Mission

To bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional practice, ensuring that every accounting student graduates with the technical expertise, ethical grounding, and analytical skills required for a successful career and lifelong learning in the financial field.

Through collaboration with faculty, employers, and educational partners, the council helps CSM accounting programs remain:

• Industry-Aligned: Courses reflect current accounting standards, tax laws, and technological advancements.
• Ethics-Focused: Instruction emphasizes professionalism, integrity, and social responsibility.
• Career-Ready: Students gain the competencies needed for employment, transfer, and professional certification.

Role and Impact

Advisory Council members provide critical insight and guidance by:

• Reviewing and refining program outcomes to ensure alignment with ACBSP accreditation standards and professional certifications such as the CPA and CMA.
• Recommending curriculum enhancements, such as integrating advanced Excel functions, updating tax modules, or embedding ethics-based case studies.
• Advising on technology trends, including the use of cloud-based accounting platforms, QuickBooks Online, and data analytics tools.
• Supporting experiential learning through internships, guest lectures, and mentorship opportunities.
• Collaborating with K–12 and university partners to strengthen pathways from high school to bachelor’s degree completion.

By connecting education to industry, the council ensures that CSM graduates are well-prepared, credential-ready, and confident professionals entering the accounting field.

Membership Composition

The council reflects a diverse cross-section of the accounting and finance community, including:

• Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) and partners from public accounting firms
• Corporate finance and controller-level professionals
• Government and nonprofit accounting representatives
• Faculty from K–12 and four-year transfer institutions
• Business and community leaders who value workforce development

This collaborative mix provides multiple perspectives—academic, practical, and regulatory—to ensure that CSM’s Accounting programs align with real-world expectations and future industry trends.