Accounting
Overview
The Accounting BA (Hons) course introduces basic accounting ideas, elements, and reporting processes. It's a compelling course that covers theoretical and practical applications with many methods and modules.
A periodic process to improve students's abilities by delivering complete knowledge and skills. With this, students can make financial reports, explore economic data, and secure accounting values. This degree is in high demand in various industries like business, finance, healthcare, and government.
Objectives
- Understanding accounting principles and concepts.
- Acquiring practical skills in financial and management accounting.
- Proficiency in accounting software and tools.
- Fostering analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Prerequisites
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Basic knowledge of mathematics and business concepts
- English language proficiency
Curriculum Outline
- Introduction to financial accounting concepts and principles
- Accounting cycle
- Financial statements (income statement, balance sheet, statement of cash flows)
- Revenue recognition and expense recognition
- Inventory and cost of goods sold
- Property, plant, and equipment
- Intangible assets
- Current liabilities and long-term liabilities
- Equity
- Financial statement analysis
- Cost-volume-profit analysis
- Budgeting
- Variance analysis
- Activity-based costing
- Responsibility accounting
- Capital budgeting
- Process costing
- Hybrid costing
- Standard costing
- Variance analysis
- Cost-volume-profit analysis
- Advanced topics in financial accounting
- Investments
- Pensions
- Derivatives
- Foreign currency translation
- Advanced topics in financial accounting (continued)
- Leases
- Business combinations
- Consolidations
- Reorganisations
- Auditing standards
- Audit procedures
- Internal controls
- Fraud auditing
- IT auditing
- Federal income taxation
- State and local taxation
- Business taxes
- Tax planning
- Financial markets
- Financial analysis
- Capital budgeting
- Risk management
- Portfolio management
- Accounting information systems
- Database management
- Financial reporting systems
- Business contracts
- Corporate law
- Securities law
- Antitrust law
Teaching Method
- Lectures
- Case studies
- Group discussions
- Practical exercises
- Simulations
- Guest lectures
- Online resources
Modules
- Introduction to Accounting
- Financial Accounting
- Management Accounting
- Cost Accounting
- Auditing
- Taxation
- Financial Reporting
- Accounting Software
Assessment Methods
- Written exams
- Assignments
- Projects
- Quizzes
- Case studies
- Presentations
- Practical exams
Course Duration
The course length is 3-5 years and may vary depending on the programme and institution.
But in the UK, the average accounting BA (Hons) course length is:
- Full-time 03 years.
- Full-time 04 years, if undertaking a foundation year.
- Full-time 04 years, if undertaking year-long industry placement.
- Full-time 05 years, if undertaking foundation year and year-long industry placement.
Facilities
- Academic advising.
- Smart and modern classrooms.
- Computer labs (accounting software).
- Well-stocked library.
- Quiet study areas.
- Online databases.
- Tutoring services.
- Accounting laboratories (hands-on practice and experimentation).
- Accounting clubs or societies.
- Wheelchair-accessible facilities.
- Assistive technology (students with disabilities).
- Career counselling.
- Partnerships with accounting firms.
- Online learning resources.
Career Pathways
- Accountant
- Financial analyst
- Auditor
- Tax consultant
- Controller
- CFO
- Entrepreneur
Fees and Fundings
- Tuition fees vary depending on the institution
- Scholarship opportunities may be available
- Government loans may be available
Entry Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Minimum GPA requirements may vary
- Standardised test scores (e.g., GMAT, GRE) may be required for some programmes
Field Work and Internships
- Opportunities for internships in accounting firms, corporations, and government agencies
- Practical experience enhances employability
Certifications
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
- Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
- Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
- Certified Financial Analyst (CFA)
- Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)
- Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
- Enrolled Agent (EA)
- Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA)
- Financial Services for Internal Auditors Certificate (FSAC)
Intakes
- Typically twice a year (fall and spring)
Student Testimony
"Becoming a CPA is no easy task, but nothing will help you feel more prepared than Shepherd's accounting programme." -- Says "Hunter Horman – Class of 2024 at Shepherd University."
Frequently asked questions
In accounting courses, admission may vary depending on the specific university or institution. However, the common requirements are:
- Academic qualifications
- Entrance exams
- English language proficiency
- Personal statement or essay
- Letters of recommendation
- Portfolio (optional)