LAUSR

Abstract Recent attention has been given to the importance of practitioner engagement in academic programs (e.g., AACSB and The Pathways Commission). One way practitioners can engage with students is through their involvement in accounting student organizations. We survey students, faculty, and alumni/practitioners to understand their perceptions of the value of student organizations. We categorize common activities of accounting student organizations into four areas and examine the perceived value of these activities. We also report the perceived costs and barriers to participation in these organizations. Respondents report that accounting student organizations (1) provide significant knowledge and opportunities in several activities that support student development and the transition from college to professional careers, (2) result in tangible outcome benefits, such as career preparedness and increased job placement opportunities, (3) are strongly valued by all stakeholders, and (4) are recommended by both participants and non-participants. We also find that schedule conflicts and time commitment are potential costs and/or barriers to participation. For universities that do not currently have accounting student organizations, the results provide the opportunity to consider whether and how the introduction of student organizations might add value to accounting programs.