SUNY College at Old Westbury Business Programs

Introduction to SUNY College at Old Westbury

SUNY College at Old Westbury is a distinguished public liberal arts institution located in the suburban setting of Old Westbury, New York. As a part of the expansive State University of New York (SUNY) system, it offers students the benefits of a broad public university network combined with a focused, personalized liberal arts education. The college is known for its commitment to diversity, academic excellence, and fostering an inclusive environment that nurtures student growth, leadership, and community engagement.

Old Westbury serves a diverse student body, providing a range of academic programs designed to prepare graduates for both immediate career success and lifelong learning. Among its various academic departments, the School of Business stands out by offering a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs tailored to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for careers in today’s competitive business world.

The college’s business programs focus on practical learning, ethical decision-making, and comprehensive understanding of business principles across multiple disciplines. Degrees offered include the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Accounting, B.S. in Marketing, and the Master of Science (M.S.) in Accounting, each designed to meet the evolving demands of business professionals and aspiring students.

Undergraduate Business Programs at SUNY Old Westbury

The School of Business at SUNY College at Old Westbury provides a solid foundation in business principles through its undergraduate programs. These programs are designed to prepare students to become capable professionals who can adapt to a wide range of career opportunities in both the private and public sectors.

Bachelor of Science in Accounting

The B.S. in Accounting program is carefully structured to prepare students for diverse roles within the accounting profession. This includes opportunities in public accounting firms, private sector corporations, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations. The curriculum covers essential topics such as financial accounting, managerial accounting, auditing, taxation, and business law.

Students in this program learn not only technical accounting skills but also develop critical thinking and ethical decision-making abilities essential to navigating the complex financial environments they will encounter in their careers. The program emphasizes proficiency in accounting software and emerging technologies, which is critical in the modern accounting landscape.

Graduates of the B.S. in Accounting program are well-prepared to pursue professional certifications such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation. The program provides the educational foundation required to meet CPA exam prerequisites, positioning students favorably for career advancement.

Bachelor of Science in Marketing

The B.S. in Marketing at SUNY Old Westbury offers students an in-depth understanding of consumer behavior, organizational buying patterns, and marketing strategy development. This program prepares students to excel in marketing roles across a variety of industries, including retail, advertising, digital marketing, brand management, and sales.

The curriculum covers fundamental marketing disciplines such as market research, advertising, consumer psychology, sales management, and international marketing. Students learn to analyze market trends, develop strategic marketing plans, and understand the digital tools essential for marketing in the 21st century.

With a focus on real-world applications, the marketing program encourages students to engage in internships, projects, and case studies that provide practical experience. This hands-on learning approach helps graduates become agile marketers who can respond to dynamic market conditions and contribute to organizational growth.

Graduate Programs: Master of Science in Accounting

SUNY College at Old Westbury offers a Master of Science (M.S.) in Accounting program designed to serve both accounting professionals and individuals from other disciplines who wish to transition into accounting or advance their careers within the field.

The M.S. in Accounting program is comprehensive, blending advanced accounting theory with practical business applications. It covers specialized topics such as advanced financial reporting, auditing standards, taxation policies, managerial accounting, and regulatory frameworks. This rigorous curriculum is designed to deepen students’ technical expertise and enhance their strategic thinking skills.

One key objective of the M.S. program is to prepare students for professional certification examinations, including the CPA and the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) exams. By completing this program, students meet the educational requirements mandated by many licensing boards, which can significantly improve their professional standing and job prospects.

The program also supports students’ development of leadership, communication, and ethical skills, recognizing that successful accountants today must be well-rounded professionals capable of managing complex organizational challenges. The M.S. in Accounting is thus a pathway for career advancement, whether students are seeking leadership roles in accounting firms, corporate finance departments, or government regulatory agencies.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

A defining characteristic of SUNY College at Old Westbury is its dedication to diversity and inclusivity. The college has been widely recognized for creating a campus environment that celebrates cultural differences and promotes equity.

In 2011, U.S. News & World Report ranked Old Westbury first among all national liberal arts colleges for diversity. This recognition highlights the college’s success in enrolling a diverse student body and fostering an inclusive campus climate where students from various backgrounds can thrive.

This commitment to diversity enriches the educational experience by exposing students to multiple perspectives and preparing them to work effectively in a globalized workforce. The campus culture at Old Westbury supports dialogue, cultural exchange, and mutual respect, all of which contribute to the development of socially responsible leaders.

The college’s programs and initiatives aim to reduce barriers to higher education, ensuring access for underrepresented and marginalized groups. This mission aligns with broader SUNY system goals and reflects the college’s role as a community leader in equity and inclusion.

Rankings and Recognition

SUNY College at Old Westbury has received numerous accolades that underscore its academic quality and institutional strengths. These rankings and honors affirm the college’s place among notable institutions committed to academic excellence and student success.

In the 2013 edition of U.S. News & World Report, Old Westbury was listed among Tier 2 National Liberal Arts Colleges. This ranking identifies institutions that provide strong liberal arts education with a balanced emphasis on undergraduate teaching and research.

The college also ranked fourth among the "Top Public Comprehensive Colleges" in the North and earned first place for campus diversity among comprehensive colleges in the same region, according to the 2005 U.S. News "America’s Best Colleges" guidebook. These honors reflect Old Westbury’s commitment to providing quality education to a diverse student body.

Such rankings and recognitions enhance the college’s visibility and reputation, helping attract talented students, faculty, and partners who contribute to the institution’s continued growth and success.

Accreditation and Academic Standards

SUNY College at Old Westbury is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools' Commission on Higher Education. This regional accreditation signifies that the institution meets rigorous standards of academic quality, institutional integrity, and effectiveness in fulfilling its mission.

Accreditation assures students, employers, and the public that the college maintains high standards in areas such as curriculum design, faculty qualifications, student support services, and institutional governance.

This accreditation also facilitates the transfer of credits and acceptance of degrees by other institutions and employers, ensuring that Old Westbury graduates are competitive in academic and professional arenas.

Furthermore, the School of Business at Old Westbury continuously updates its programs to align with industry trends and professional standards, ensuring that students receive relevant and current education.

Experiential Learning and Career Preparation

SUNY College at Old Westbury emphasizes experiential learning as a key component of its educational approach. Business students are encouraged to participate in internships, cooperative education, and community projects that offer real-world experience and networking opportunities.

Internships provide valuable insights into workplace dynamics, allow students to apply theoretical knowledge, and often lead to job offers after graduation. The college maintains relationships with local businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies, facilitating connections that benefit students’ professional development.

The college also offers career services tailored to the needs of business students. These services include resume workshops, interview preparation, job fairs, and alumni networking events. Through these resources, students are better equipped to transition smoothly from academic life to their professional careers.

Career counselors at Old Westbury work closely with students to identify career goals, develop job search strategies, and connect with employers. This personalized support helps students capitalize on their education and skills in competitive job markets.

Community Engagement and Social Responsibility

A strong emphasis on social responsibility and community engagement distinguishes SUNY College at Old Westbury’s educational philosophy. The college encourages students to apply their business knowledge in ways that contribute positively to society.

Students participate in service-learning projects and community outreach initiatives that address local needs and promote sustainable development. These experiences foster a sense of civic duty and ethical awareness that extend beyond the classroom.

The college also integrates discussions of ethics, corporate social responsibility, and environmental stewardship into its business curricula. This ensures that graduates understand the broader impact of business decisions and are prepared to lead with integrity.

By cultivating socially responsible professionals, Old Westbury contributes to the creation of business leaders who value not only profit but also people and the planet.

Campus Life and Student Support

SUNY College at Old Westbury offers a supportive and engaging campus environment designed to nurture student success. As a residential college, it provides a close-knit community where students can develop meaningful relationships with peers and faculty.

The campus features modern facilities, including classrooms equipped with the latest technology, dedicated spaces for student organizations, and resources such as libraries and computer labs.

Students benefit from numerous extracurricular activities, including cultural clubs, academic societies, and leadership development programs. These opportunities allow students to explore interests outside the classroom, build networks, and develop soft skills crucial for professional success.

Support services such as academic advising, tutoring, counseling, and health services are readily available to help students manage their academic and personal challenges.

Conclusion

SUNY College at Old Westbury is a vibrant public liberal arts institution offering a comprehensive range of business programs designed to prepare students for successful careers and responsible citizenship. Its commitment to diversity, academic excellence, and community engagement creates an enriching educational environment.

The college’s undergraduate programs in accounting and marketing provide students with the technical skills and practical knowledge needed to thrive in various business sectors. Its graduate M.S. in Accounting program supports both new entrants and experienced professionals in advancing their careers and obtaining important certifications like the CPA.

Rankings and accreditation reflect Old Westbury’s standing as a reputable institution within the SUNY system and nationally. The college’s emphasis on experiential learning, career preparation, and social responsibility ensures that graduates are well-equipped to meet the challenges of today’s complex business world.

For students seeking a diverse, supportive, and academically rigorous environment to pursue business studies, SUNY College at Old Westbury offers compelling opportunities and pathways to success.