Diane Matson's favorite aspect of teaching is connecting with students. In her role as a professor in the Department of Accounting at the University of St. Thomas Opus College of Business, she teaches courses at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, including financial accounting, auditing, and forensic accounting. To make the courses are relevant, Matson discusses how current events connect to topics covered in class. Matson uses a mix of teaching and learning strategies, such as lectures, handouts, videos, cases and guest speakers, to make the courses are interesting and interactive.
Matson's research focuses on issues and concerns facing the accounting profession. She is writing a case on a new accounting standard affecting revenue recognition. This case will allow students to see how this standard could be applied in an actual business situation. Another project, also a case, focuses on increasing awareness of cybersecurity.
Matson has authored or co-authored papers on auditor judgment, decision making and forensic accounting.
