Overview of Associate of Business in Accounting Degree
Majors Overview May 17, 2013To gain general knowledge of accounting procedures and principles, students should consider earning an Associate of Business in Accounting degree. The program leading to this degree may be a starting point for an individual to who want to enter the bookkeeping, auditing, or accounting fields.
Associate of Business in Accounting Degree
An associate degree program will prepare students for entry-level employment or help them further their education. Through studying proper data presentation procedures, financial analysis, financial reporting, and record-keeping techniques, individuals will gain a solid foundation in the accounting field. The majority of schools do not have any requirements that potential students must meet besides holding a general educational development (GED) certificate or a high school diploma.
Program Coursework
An associate degree program in accounting will teach students management skills and accounting methods. Students can learn how to apply accounting principles in a business environment and solve problems. Program course topics may include the following:
•Macroeconomics
•Business math
•Bookkeeping
•Financial management
•Accounting information systems
•Cost accounting
•Taxation
Career Options
Typically, students who have earned their associate degree will qualify for entry-level auditing, bookkeeping, or accounting positions. Employers usually want employees in entry-level positions to hold at minimum an associate degree, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS – www.bls.gov). Even if, individuals hold an associate degree, they will be required to receive some on-the-job training. They may obtain the follow career titles:
•Bookkeeper
•Tax preparer
•Auditing clerk
•Accounting clerk
Information on Continuing Education
An Associate of Business in Accounting may be a stepping-stone toward earning an undergraduate and graduate degree in accounting. Individuals should consider pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree program in order to become an auditor or accountant. Most employers prefer auditors and accountants who hold at least a bachelor degree, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Additionally, the BLS has stated that in a majority of states, students are required to meet specific credit hours requirement that goes beyond an associate degree in order to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
