I. Description
A program that prepares individuals to practice the profession of accounting and to perform related business functions. Includes instruction in accounting principles and theory, financial accounting, managerial accounting, cost accounting, budget control, tax accounting, legal aspects of accounting, auditing, reporting procedures, statement analysis, planning and consulting, business information systems, accounting research methods, professional standards and ethics, and applications to specific for-profit, public, and non-profit organizations.
II. Learning Objectives
Accounting majors enjoy business mathematics and the role accounting systems play in a modern business or governmental agency. Accounting requires an in-depth knowledge of how accounting systems are structured and implemented. Understanding these systems requires an ability to focus on details, remember the many federal and state laws that control such systems, and a broader view of how business organizations function. Accounting courses present an above average challenge in the amount of work they require. The accounting firms that hire many, but certainly not all of these majors, seek students with high grade point averages. Accounting majors may enjoy reading business magazines or articles, politics, learn strategies for business success, and apply mathematics to practical problems.
III. Learning Outcomes
Students graduated from the program will be expected to have knowledge and practical skills in:
- recognize and understand ethical issues related to the accounting profession.
- prepare financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.
- employ critical thinking skills to analyze financial data as well as the effects of differing financial accounting methods on the financial statements.
- effectively define the needs of the various users of accounting data and demonstrate the ability to communicate such data effectively, as well as the ability to provide knowledgeable recommendations.
- recognize circumstances providing for increased exposure to fraud and define preventative internal control measures.
- demonstrate an understanding of current auditing standards and acceptable practices, as well as the impact of audit risk on the engagement.
- understand the audit process from the engagement planning stage through completion of the audit, as well as the rendering of an audit opinion via the various report options.
- apply cost accounting methods to evaluate and project business performance.
- demonstrate an understanding of the taxation of individual income.
- apply appropriate judgment derived from knowledge of accounting theory, to financial analysis and decision making.
- the student will experience real-world learning and application of skills via their internship. Note: Specific outcomes will vary by assigned internship experience.
