Bridgewater State University’s Ricciardi College of Business offers a personalized business education as unique as each student. Bridgewater was founded in 1840 and has prioritized increasing graduation rates for low-income students. Within six months of graduation, 93% of graduates are employed or enrolled in further education. BSU is also named among the top Fulbright-producing institutions. The University is among the largest in Massachusetts, yet remains focused on student learning with an 18:1 student-to-faculty ratio. Satellite campuses have been added in Attleboro and Cape Cod to support students living in those regions. The Ricciardi COB is comprised of three departments: Accounting and Finance, Aviation Science, and Management and Marketing. The business school acquired its name from Louis Ricciardi, a class of ’81 alumni, who funds multiple scholarships and continues to remain active on campus.
Education
Students gain the essential skills and knowledge needed to be career-ready by earning a Ricciardi undergraduate business degree. Students who pursue a BS in Accounting and Finance will be well prepared to earn high marks on the CPA or CMA exam. Accounting students gain hands-on experience with Bloomberg terminals and can add a Bloomberg certification to their degree. Additionally, students interested in insurance careers can distinguish themselves with a Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter designation. The AABI-accredited Bachelor of Science in Aviation Science degree features a concentration in Aviation Management and Flight Training. This top-notch flight program gives students the opportunity to fly a minimum of three times per week. Bachelor of Science degrees are also available in Marketing and Management. Management students can select a concentration in General Management, Global Management, Human Resource Management, Information Systems Management, and Supply Chain Management.
Ricciardi offers a Master of Business Administration and MSA in Accountancy for students seeking their next academic challenge. Graduate certificates are also available in Accounting, Finance, and Business Foundations. The comprehensive 33-credit hour MBA can be completed as a full-time or part-time program. Full-time students can graduate within one year, and be on the fast-track to an upper management position. Currently, classes are only offered in the evening, giving students the chance to work during the day. Students will be engaged in case studies, team projects, and meet established professionals through company visits and guest speakers. Accounting students gain specialized knowledge through elective options such as Business Law, Corporate Taxation, and Internal Audit and Control.
Student Life
Outside of the classroom, students can gain experience in professional settings through internships. Previous internship hot spots have included Northwestern Mutual, South Shore Health System, and UPS. The Bear Essentials Clothing Closet suits students up with interview attire. Students can also develop their business passions through the Accounting and Finance Club, Student Managed Investment Funds, and the American Marketing Association. The Career Services Office plans a variety of helpful events to help students prepare for their future. Events include a Networking Mocktail Reception, panel discussions for Women in the Workplace, etiquette dinners, job shadowing during school breaks, resume critiques, and a LinkedIn Photo Booth.
