Student Perspectives on Forensic Accounting in Indian Higher Education

Abstract

The rising surge of corruption and financial fraud cases seems to be urging the inclusion of forensic accounting in the educational curriculum, particularly in developing countries. This study examines the current state of forensic accounting education in India and explores its effectiveness through the prism of commerce and management students. It reveals an increasing demand for forensic accounting education because of the increasing fraud cases. Students perceive that forensic accounting professionals are pivotal in preventing and reducing fraud incidents and enhancing financial reporting quality. However, there are several challenges that hinder the expansion of forensic accounting education in India, such as limited awareness, insufficient resources, shortage of trained faculties and perceived scarcity of career opportunities. Further, the underrepresentation of the multidisciplinary nature of forensic accounting and the struggle to balance while integrating theory with practice are additional obstacles. Despite these hurdles, there is a strong interest among students in integrating forensic accounting topics into the existing curriculum.