A new survey by Brigham Young University ranks Isenberg among elite accounting programs for its research into the role of judgment and decision making (JDM) in accounting practice. In the survey, Isen

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A new survey by Brigham Young University ranks Isenberg among elite accounting programs for its research into the role of judgment and decision making (JDM) in accounting practice. In the survey, Isenberg ranks #2 in the nation for research involving auditor JDM and #5 in financial accounting JDM. Isenberg also ranks #5 for JDM research across all accounting topics. The rankings were based on faculty publications over the last decade through 2020 in the top six accounting journals, as identified by The Financial Times.

 

“JDM research, which studies individual judgment and decision making by stakeholders in accounting settings, is one of our field’s two dominant research methods,” notes David Piercey, Chair of Isenberg’s Department of Accounting. It is also interdisciplinary. “Most often, we combine theories from psychology and economics in exploring questions about how practitioners form judgments in accounting and business. I’ve also seen JDM accounting researchers draw on other disciplines, including evolutionary biology and neuroscience.”

 

JDM research, he continues, is both academic and pragmatic. “It can help practitioners improve their judgment in financial statement auditing, financial reporting, investing, and other business activities. Our work informs accounting standard setters, investors, and financial statement auditors about their presentation of information in financial statements. We are frequently cited by the SEC, FASB, and PCAOB.”

 

Piercey adds that Isenberg has been focused on recruiting talented new faculty from top doctoral programs over the past decade. “We've built a cohesive team; our faculty are national thought leaders. Most of our students go into auditing and financial reporting careers. That’s after receiving a world-class education from some of the top researchers in judgment and decision making. In our graduates’ careers, that can make a difference!”