Business

The Accounting Certificate is a competency-based program designed to provide for development of the knowledge and skills required for an entry-level position in healthcare, business, industry, or government environments. It is designed for those seeking entry-level employment and for those currently employed who are seeking advancement.

Students will learn business, accounting, and customer service procedures. They will learn various basic computer software application programs, build teamwork skills and acquire oral, written, and electronic communication skills. Students will be able to define and apply basic concepts of accounting, business, taxes, and payroll. They will research, organize, and present various business documents; explain internal and external customer relationships; discuss how to diffuse conflict in an office environment; manage internal controls concerning cost and budgeting; and recognize and correct financial problems.

Career opportunity possibilities include:

• accounting specialist
• assistant bookkeeper
• auditing technician
• accounts payable specialist
• accounts receivable specialist
• bookkeeper
• inventory technician
• payroll specialist

Students completing this program may find employment in:

•  social service organizations
• government agencies
• service industries
• public accounting firms
• law offices
• sales/marketing offices
• merchandising offices
• financial institutions
• hospitals
• insurance companies
• medical offices/clinics
• rehabilitation centers
• other business environments

This program will prepare the student to sit for the Fundamental Payroll Certification exam (administered by the American Payroll Association) and the Certified Bookkeeper exam (administered by the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers). Requirements for obtaining the Certified Bookkeeper designation include passing the exam and completing two years of bookkeeping experience before or after taking the exam. The Certificate in Accounting is 39 semester hours, 720 contact hours and 26 weeks in length (3 eight-week terms and 1 two-week term) for day and 34 weeks in length for evening.