Accounting Certificate Program

This three-semester certificate program is designed for students who already have a Bachelor's or Associate degree in any discipline and who have adequate computer skills. A student who has completed BBG 114 Business Application Software, or its equivalent is considered to have adequate computer skills. This program would meet the educational needs of students who are seeking a career change, who are working in the Accounting field and do not have an Accounting degree and students who need basic Accounting courses for the CPA exam.

Program Outcomes

Upon successful completion of all requirements, graduates of both the degree and certificate programs will be able to:

1. Demonstrate mastery of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles and their manual and computerized spreadsheet applications through all phases of the accounting cycle;
2. Complete the Accounting cycle from original entries to closing entries;
3. Complete relatively complex Accounting problems and be familiar with current Financial Accounting Standards and Practices;
4. Prepare financial statements for Corporations in compliance with current Accounting Standards and Practices;
5. Explain how budgeting, activity-based costing and strategic cost management foster the effective use of resources and help an organization accomplish its goals;
6. Demonstrate computer competencies including the use of spreadsheet applications and Accounting software;
7. Prepare 1040 tax returns and supporting schedules under simulated conditions;
8. Prepare basic federal income tax returns for partnerships and corporations; and
9. Demonstrate an understanding of the interrelationships between Accounting and other areas within a business environment and work with other departments to achieve the overall goals.