GAP4+1 is a unique pathway program — a partnership between Irvine Valley College (IVC) and Cal State Fullerton (CSUF) — that will enable you to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in four years and a master's degree with one more additional year. CSUF’s School of Accountancy is highly acclaimed, with top employers heavily recruiting its graduates. CSUF is one of only five California universities that is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business in both accounting and business.
The GAP4+1 program is flexible and allows students to earn a master’s degree in either accountancy, taxation or accounting and finance. Students can obtain careers in accounting firms for assurance (audit), tax or consultancy; into private industry in the fields of planning, analytics, administration, controllership or finance; or into the worlds of asset management, banking, investment analyst, securities, and investment consultants.
Findings and Insights
In the sample size of GAP students from the 2016 to 2021 cohort, the following observations were made:
- Internship Success Rate: 93% confirmed paid college internships.
- Full-Time Offers Post Graduation: 98% have have received full-time offers before graduation.
- Top Firm Placement: 46% of the students with full-time offers land a "Big Four" job,and 72% land a job with a top 10 accounting firm.
The GAP 4+1 program has demonstrably succeeded in securing internships and full-time positions for its students, as evident from the remarkable statistics. Alongside these numerical insights, the heartfelt testimonials from former participants further illuminate the multifaceted benefits of the program. From career development and industry exposure to personal growth and community building, GAP4+1 has left a profound and lasting impact on the lives and futures of its students. Such achievements are not only quantifiable through data, but also resonante in the personal experiences and growth of those who have taken part in the program.
GAP (4+1) is a one stop shop for success. I secured a series of coveted internship opportunities, all while getting a top-notch education. Upon graduation, I was able to land a full-time position within the audit and assurance practice at Ernst & Young, a distinguished member of the Big Four. While in the program, I was able to get a first-class education that was not just limited to accounting. I was able to learn about data analytics, and sharpen my Microsoft Excel skills. Enrolling in the GAP (4+1) program was the greatest decision that I have ever made.