Robert McDonald, M.B.A., C.P.A.
Associate Professor of Accounting
I have 10 years of industry experience in accounting and finance that I can bring into the classroom and in my advising sessions. My industry experience complements the public accounting experience my faculty colleagues have. The accounting faculty’s broad range of experience gives the students a full picture of the career choices in accounting.
What is your educational background?
I have a BS from the City College of New York, an MBA from New York University, and an Advanced Professional Certificate in Accounting from New York University. I have achieved the following certifications: CPA- Certified Public Accountant, CMA- Certified Management Accountant, CFA- Chartered Financial Analyst, CIA- Certified Internal Auditor, CFM- Certified in Financial Management. CPA- Certified Public Accountant CMA- Certified Management Accountant CFA- Chartered Financial Analyst CIA- Certified Internal Auditor CFM- Certified in Financial Management
How long have you taught at the University of New Haven, and what courses do you teach?
I have been at the University of New Haven for 27 years. I teach courses in cost accounting, managerial accounting, and financial statement analysis.
How would you describe your role as an advisor and mentor?
I advise students on course selection, elective and minor choices, and career options. I try to outline career choices beyond those in public accounting requiring the CPA. I also advise students on the work ethic demanded in the whole field of accounting- especially the need to achieve some certification in accounting or finance. I have achieved 5 professional certificates in accounting and finance, and I strongly encourage my students to start early on the path of certification.
What are some fun facts about you?
I have recently rekindled my interest in Native American tribes after reading the New York Times best seller “Empire of the Summer Moon” documenting the history of the Comanche tribe. Soon after graduating from college I lived with the Kiowa tribe in southwestern Oklahoma as a VISTA Volunteer.
What advice would you give to prospective students and their parents?
My advice to parents and students would be to work as a team, each with different perspectives about education and careers to select a college. See college as a tremendous opportunity for growth and maturation.
What is your favorite thing about the University of New Haven?
I am impressed with the very wide diversity of our students at the University of New Haven, especially the international students.
How does the University of New Haven's accounting program differ from other reputable colleges and Universities?
All our accounting instructors have practical experience in public accounting or in industry. We all like to teach in the small class sizes at the University of New Haven, thus allowing us to get to know our students.
