Essential Information
Graduates of associate's programs in accounting often go on to assist accounting firms and other businesses in accounting, bookkeeping, auditing and tax preparation. They may also pursue bookkeeping certification or further their education with a bachelor's degree in accounting. Students in these programs gain a general background in business.
The prerequisites for earning an associate's degree in accounting are a high school diploma or equivalent; minimum ACT score in math sometimes required.
Associate's Degree in Accounting
An associate's degree program in accounting trains students to track financial information and also handle payroll and billing functions. Coursework in these programs covers many areas related to accounting, along with core business courses. Students may learn to keep a computerized and manual set of books. Typical coursework may include:
- Principles of accounting
- Payroll accounting
- Document processing
- Computer applications
- Individual tax accounting
Popular Career Options
Graduates who have successfully completed an associate's degree in accounting may take entry-level positions with accounting firms or within a business's accounting department. Possible career options for graduates include:
- Bookkeeper
- Accounting assistant
- Accounts payable clerk
- Administrative assistant
Continuing Education and Certification Information
Many educational institutions allow a student with an associate's degree in accounting to transfer to an accounting bachelor's degree program. American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers administers the Certified Bookkeeper (CB) credential. Anyone interested in becoming a CB must have experience (two years) working as a bookkeeper and pass an exam.
Students who earn an associate's degree in accounting will have the skills and knowledge to handle tax, bookkeeping and basic accounting tasks for a business. Graduates make consider earning certification or a bachelor's degree in order to prepare for advanced career opportunities.
