School of Business & Economics

Bio

Gerald Olson is a Professor of Accounting at Illinois Wesleyan University, where he has taught since 1986. He has held numerous leadership roles, including Chair of the Department of Accounting and Finance, and previously Chair of the Department of Business Administration. During his tenure, he helped establish one of IWU’s largest academic departments and has overseen the development of majors, minors, and internship programs that connect students directly with the accounting profession.

Professor Olson teaches a wide range of courses, including financial accounting, auditing, accounting information systems, and international accounting. He has led multiple international travel seminars across Europe and Asia, integrating global business perspectives into the curriculum. He is also the creator of IWU’s Winter Internship program, a signature experiential learning opportunity that has placed students with top accounting firms, with most earning full-time job offers.

Professor Olson has served extensively with the Illinois CPA Society, including on its Board of Directors, and remains active in advancing the profession through service, advising, and community leadership.

Education

• M.S. in Accounting, Illinois State University, 1986
• M.S. in Business Education, Illinois State University, 1975
• B.S. in Business Administration and History, Illinois State University, 1973

Frequently Taught Classes

• Financial and Managerial Accounting
• Auditing
• Governmental and Nonprofit Accounting
• Tax Accounting
• Advanced Accounting
• CPA Review