Associate Degree Programs in Accounting Technology
Majors Overview April 25, 2013Students who are enrolled in the associate degree program in accounting technology will study a business based on its record-keeping systems and financial patterns. An accounting technology associate degree program will lead to careers in bookkeeping, along with accounting areas of service, retail, or manufacturing industries.
Accounting Technology Associate Degree Program
A majority of accounting technology associate degree programs will combine basic studies with courses in foundation business management and background information in accounting, including financial information and processes. Students will learn how to use basic accounting technology, understand practical accounting, create journals or ledgers, and track profits and costs through these programs. Students will also gain basic skills in teamwork, decision making, written and verbal communication, and problem solving.
Students usually complete these programs within two years, if enrolled full-time. Some associate degree programs in accounting technology are designed to prepare students for entry-level work, while others allow students to transfer directly to a related four-year program. Individuals are required to hold a general educational development (GED) certificate or a high school diploma, if they want to enroll in an associate degree program.
Program Coursework
Typically, students will encounter coursework in business, accounting, and bookkeeping when they are enrolled in an accounting technology associate degree program. Course topics may include:
•Accounting software
•Business finances
•Federal taxes
•Risk management
•Microcomputers
•Payroll
•Spreadsheets
•Management
•Economics
•Business ethics
Career Options
Students who have graduated from an accounting technology associate degree program will be prepared for entry-level careers in private and public accounting. Individuals will be able to work in areas such as manufacturing, retail, or commerce. Students who have earned their degree will be able to obtain the following positions:
•Payroll assistants
•Bookkeepers
•Accounts payable clerks
Continuing Education
Individuals who do not enter the workforce once they have completed the associate degree program should consider pursuing a bachelor degree program in a field related to accounting technology, including business education, technology, business administration, and accounting. Bachelor degree programs in these fields will prepare students for careers in secondary education, accountant positions, or management positions.
