Overview of Associate Degree Program in Taxation
Majors Overview April 16, 2013Taxation is a field related to accounting and business that concentrates on the federal, state, and local tax regulations impacting non-profit charities, corporations, and other organizations. Taxation associate degree programs are not available, but students may pursue an accounting education at this level. Associate degree program in accounting courses covers accounting technology, fraud examination, and tax law.
Accounting Associate Degree Program
An accounting associate degree program covers subject areas such as business law, economics and management. Students are taught about business regulations, financial records and federal tax regulations. The significant focus of modern accounting courses is on the role of technology in maintaining and operating firms. Coursework related to several accounting programs at this level includes basic administrative skills, such as public speaking and typing. It takes two years to complete the entire coursework. Students are allowed to apply credits earned from the associate degree program toward the bachelor degree program.
Education Requirements
Candidates must hold a general educational development (GED) certificate or high school diploma in order to enroll in an accounting associate degree program. The admission process to an associate degree program in accounting typically involves a processing fee and an application submission.
Program Course Topics
In order to earn an associate degree in accounting, students have to demonstrate knowledge in various business and math concepts. Individuals are required to complete basic academic studies in fields such as humanities, math, and social science. Program core topics include financial auditing, cost accounting, and managerial accounting. The following are typical program courses:
•Local taxes and payroll
•Information system in accounting
•Individual taxation
•Business communications
•Principles of corporate management
Employment Outlook
Overall employment prospects and salary for accountants are usually depended on education level. Candidates with a doctoral, master, or bachelor degree in accounting will earn the most salaries. Depending on the states, individuals may be allowed to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with only an associate degree. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS – www.bls.gov), as of May 2008, the average annual salary for Certified Public Accountants was $59,430.
