Accounting

Program Overview

The Accounting Associate of Applied Science degree program equips students with a comprehensive understanding of accounting principles and practices, preparing them for entry-level accounting roles. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, graduates develop the skills to perform accounting functions, analyze financial data, and pursue further education or industry certifications. The program provides a strong foundation for a successful career in the accounting profession.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Overview:
The Accounting Associate of Applied Science degree program prepares students for a career in accounting, providing them with the skills to perform accounting functions from basic bookkeeping to financial analysis.
• Objectives:
The program aims to provide students with a strong foundation in accounting principles and practices, enabling them to:
• Record business transactions according to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)
• Prepare basic financial statements (Income Statement, Balance Sheet, and Statement of Equity)
• Identify and understand Internal Control principles and weaknesses
• Prepare and calculate accounting schedules
• Analyze financial statements to evaluate business results
• Compare and interpret financial results calculated using different accounting methods
• Utilize technology to manipulate and summarize accounting data
• Program Description:
The program covers various aspects of accounting, including:
• Bookkeeping: Students learn the fundamentals of bookkeeping, including the accounting cycle and the manual and computerized recording of financial transactions.
• Financial Accounting: Students study financial accounting principles and practices, including the preparation and analysis of financial statements.
• Managerial Accounting: Students learn about cost accounting, budgeting, and other accounting techniques used by managers for decision-making.
• Tax Accounting: Students gain an understanding of federal individual income taxes, as well as accounting principles related to small businesses and corporations.
• Payroll Accounting: Students learn how to process payroll, including calculating withholding taxes, employer taxes, and preparing tax forms.

Outline:

Associate of Applied Science Degree Plan of Study:

• First Semester:
Introductory Accounting, Business Mathematics or College Algebra or Finite Math for Business & Management or Calculus for Business/Social Science, Computer Concepts & Business Applications, English Composition I or Business Communications I, and Introduction to Business
• Second Semester:
Financial Accounting, Fundamentals of Speech, Principles of Microeconomics, Business Law or Legal Environment of Business, and Spreadsheet Applications
• Third Semester:
Managerial Accounting, Income Tax Accounting, QuickBooks Online, English Composition II or Business Communications II, and Principles of Macroeconomics
• Fourth Semester:
Payroll Accounting, Critical Reasoning or Logic or Ethics, Introduction to Psychology or Principles of Sociology, and Accounting Electives

Vocational Specialist Certificate Plan of Study:

• First Semester:
Introductory Accounting, Business Mathematics or College Algebra or Finite Math for Business & Management or Calculus for Business/Social Science, Computer Concepts & Business Applications, Introduction to Business, and Business Communications I or English Composition I
• Second Semester:
Financial Accounting, QuickBooks Online, Payroll Accounting, Spreadsheet Applications, Database Applications, and Accounting Electives

Assessment:

Methods:

• Exams and tests: Students are evaluated through regular exams and tests to assess their understanding of accounting concepts and their ability to apply them to practical situations.
• Projects and assignments: Students complete various projects and assignments throughout the program to demonstrate their proficiency in specific accounting tasks and their ability to analyze and interpret financial data.
• Participation and presentations: Students may participate in class discussions and make presentations to showcase their understanding and critical thinking skills.

Criteria:

• Performance on assignments: Students' grades are based on the quality and accuracy of their work, including their ability to provide logical explanations, support their reasoning, and demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
• Class participation: Students are encouraged to actively participate in class discussions, ask questions, and engage with the course material to demonstrate their comprehension and enthusiasm for the subject.
• Attendance and punctuality: Regular attendance and timely submission of assignments are important aspects of the grading criteria, as they reflect students' commitment to the course and their ability to meet deadlines.

Teaching:

Methods:

• Lectures: Instructors present the fundamental concepts and principles of accounting through engaging lectures that introduce new material and explain complex topics.
• Class discussions: Students engage in interactive class discussions to explore different perspectives, clarify their understanding, and develop critical thinking skills.
• Case studies and simulations: Practical scenarios and simulations are incorporated to allow students to apply their knowledge in real-world situations and make informed decisions.
• Group work and collaboration: Students work together on projects and assignments to foster teamwork, collaboration, and the sharing of knowledge and perspectives.

Faculty:

• The program is taught by qualified instructors with expertise in accounting and business, providing students with access to up-to-date knowledge and industry best practices.

Unique approaches:

• The program combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience, ensuring students develop the skills necessary to succeed in the accounting profession.
• Students are encouraged to obtain industry-recognized certifications, such as Intuit QuickBooks Certified User and MOS Excel, to enhance their employability.
• The program prepares students for further education and professional development opportunities in the field of accounting.

Careers:

Potential career paths:

Graduates of the program are equipped with the skills to pursue various career opportunities in accounting, such as:

• Accountant
• Bookkeeper
• Payroll clerk
• Tax preparer
• Financial analyst
• Auditor

Opportunities and outcomes:

With the increasing demand for skilled accounting professionals, graduates of the program have the potential to secure entry-level positions in various industries, including finance, banking, healthcare, and government.

• The program provides a strong foundation for career advancement, allowing graduates to progress to more senior accounting roles with experience and additional certifications.
• The program prepares students to pursue higher education in the field of accounting, such as a Bachelor's or Master's degree, which can open doors to advanced career opportunities.