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A professor in both Accountancy and Information and Process Management, Jane Fedorowicz holds a PhD from Carnegie Mellon University. She enjoys researching real world problems with an interdisciplinary perspective, like her work on public safety networks and police use of social media.

How did you get started teaching in the graduate Accountancy program?

My first teaching assignment at Bentley was to teach the undergraduate “Accounting Information Systems” course. Once I became tenured and was awarded the Rae D. Andersen Chair, I was asked to specialize in the graduate version of AIS, entitled “Business Processes and Systems Assessment,” which is my current teaching focus. I have made many changes to the course over the years, to keep students aware of the control challenges auditors face when new technologies change clients' business processes.

What excites you about the research you’re working on now?

I enjoy working on real world problems that transcend traditional academic disciplines. Currently, I am working with Professors Christine Williams of the Global Studies Department and Jennifer Xu of Computer Information Systems to study how police use social media to improve relationships and communication with their community. It is exciting work, as we are interviewing police officers from several cities in the US and also capturing tweets and Facebook posts from these departments and their followers to identify best practices in reaching different audiences within the community. The departments really appreciate the research results and they are able to put our findings to work to make a difference in public safety.

What are the top professions this degree program will prepare students for?

Most students in the MSA program seek jobs in public accounting, especially as auditors. Those who find my course appealing may become IT auditors or focus on risk assessment and management.

What educational background will be most helpful to students coming into your program?

An undergraduate business degree would give students the best foundation for an MSA.

What’s your favorite thing about working with Bentley graduate students?

Bentley's graduate students are willing to work hard and invest in learning not only the course material, but also the skills and mannerisms needed to succeed in a fast-paced career. Those who come prepared to excel in life usually do!

What was your first job after grad school?

My first job was Assistant Professor of Accounting and Information Systems at Northwestern University's Kellogg Graduate School of Management. I taught their Management Information Systems required course and a course on Data Base Management. I've come almost full circle as I now hold a joint appointment in Accountancy and in the Information and Process Management Department. My dual identity continues!