Associate Degree Programs in Accounting: Computer Application
Majors Overview April 25, 2013In this article, students will obtain information on accounting associate degree program that feature courses in computer applications. Students will learn about continuing education possibilities, career options, and courses to make an informed decision on their education.
Associate Degree Programs in Accounting
There are limited associate degree programs in accounting that offer specializations in computer applications, though several do offer coursework in this area. Depending on the degree programs, some will likely offer courses in computerized accounting systems, such as Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S) in Professional Accounting or A.A.S. in Accounting. Students who want to get accepted to these programs are required to hold a general educational development (GED) certificate or a high school diploma. Also, students are required to submit an official transcript of all completed coursework.
Students who are enrolled in these programs will learn about business organization, computer technology, spreadsheet applications, and managerial and financial accounting. Office skills, such as critical thinking, effective communications, and time management skills are usually taught in the program. Depending on the schools, some will provide students who have completed the associate degree program an option to transfer credits to a four-year university to pursue a bachelor degree program.
Program Coursework
The degree programs usually takes two years to complete and will consist of thirty-three to eighty-four credits. Generally, students are introduced to software and computers applications related to accounting. They also fulfill basic educational requirements in science, English, and math. Course topics may include:
•Financial accounting
•Managerial accounting
•Business management
•Federal income tax
•Business law
•Business introduction
•Cost accounting
•Accounting principles
Career Options
Students who have graduated from an accounting associate degree program will be prepared for entry-level positions as junior accountants in government agencies, professional services, accounting firms, and non-profit organizations. Job duties may include cross-checking invoices, entering invoices, maintaining accounts-payable files, and updating ledger accounts. Individuals may obtain the following job titles:
•Accounts payable coordinator
•Business operations coordinator
•Business office manager
•Client billing specialist
•Junior bookkeeper
Information on Continuing Education
Students who have earned their associate’s degree in accounting will be able to enroll in a bachelor degree program to learn and advance their skills. The majority of auditors and accountants are required to hold a bachelor degree in order to practice their profession, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS – www.bls.gov). Often, students may be able to obtain their bachelor and master degrees online. Individuals who want to teach at the college level or interested in accounting research should pursue a doctoral degree program. Accountants should earn their Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification, if they want career advancement.
