Accounting
The study of accounting involves the preparation and presentation of financial information in both an internal and external manner. The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants defines accounting as “the art of recording, classifying, and summarizing in a significant manner and in terms of money transactions and events which are, in part at least, of financial character, and interpreting the results thereof.” Management accounting is concerned with publishing internal financial reports that are used by managers to make informed decisions, while financial accounting provides information to the public including shareholders, creditors, financial analysts, and economists.
Students interested in the field of accounting have numerous degree options and specializations from which to explore. An Associates in Accounting degree provides students with a firm basis in accounting, including basic rules, accounting software, and an introduction to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). The Bachelor in Accounting features curriculums that dive deeper into the subject than the associates, by studying the professional, ethical, and technical aspects of accounting in a variety of settings. The Master in Accounting degree provides students advanced accounting courses required for the Certified Public Accountant exam. Finally, the PhD in Accounting prepares students for teaching and consulting careers, and is the pinnacle of accounting research and doctrine.
