Graduation Year

2018

Document Type

Campus Only Senior Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Economics-Accounting

Reader 1

Matthew Magilke

Reader 2

Roberto Pedace

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Terms of Use for work posted in Scholarship@Claremont.

Rights Information

© 2017 Annette He

Abstract

What is the effect of STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) degrees on employment in accounting services? Many accounting firms are beginning to rely on recent technological developments such as big data and Artificial Intelligence. Although firms have traditionally hired professionals from pure accounting backgrounds, technology is creating a new demand for skills focusing on data analytics, computer science, statistics, and many more. This thesis analyzes the impact of increasing employment diversity; one way of maximizing the potential of technological innovation is to focus recruiting on STEM graduates. Thus, this thesis uses an empirical analysis on the effect of STEM degrees and accounting services employment; this relationship is compared with variables that have had or will affect accounting services employment in the twenty-first century: Sarbanes Oxley regulations, accounting degrees, public research and development funding, and unemployment rates. The conclusions from this analysis help suggest future educational implications for accountants.

This thesis is restricted to the Claremont Colleges current faculty, students, and staff.

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