Accounting, A.A.S.

In a 21^st century business landscape, accounting professionals shape a healthy economy. An accounting degree provides the tools to analyze data, manage finances, and make informed business decisions. The Blue Ridge Community and Technical College program provides a theoretical knowledge of accounting and gives students the tools for achievement.

Program Overview

An Accountant examines, analyzes and interprets accounting data for the purpose of giving advice and preparing financial statements. Duties may include performing such activities as recording receipts and disbursements and preparing state and federal reports. The accountant may prepare reports and statements on a computer or manually. Accounting paraprofessionals are the organizations financial record keepers. Responsibilities include updating and maintaining accounting records, processing expenditures, receipts, payables, receivables, and payroll. They may also analyze, verify, prepare and communicate financial information. An accounting paraprofessional monitors and controls various types of electronic data processing equipment used to process accounting data. Applications would include automated general ledger and other accounting subsystems, spreadsheet applications, database management and the use of graphics. Students must have a high school diploma or an equivalency certificate. Excellent reading skills and a combination of interest and ability to concentrate on detail, an analytical mind, good judgment and absolute integrity are necessary for success in the field of accounting.

Program Outcomes

1. Graduates will possess the knowledge and skills for immediate employment in related business support areas.
2. Graduates will upon completion of this program be able to transfer into a baccalaureate program.
3. Graduates will be proficient in computer software and its application to financial accounting, taxation and financial analysis.
4. Graduates will have knowledge of financial accounting theory and financial statement analysis.
5. Graduates will have completed general education requirements for work and personal roles.
6. Graduates will serve their employers and clients in all phases of accounting.

Career Opportunities

With more and more emphasis being placed on computer usage for accounting careers, opportunities for employment in this field are excellent. Rate of advancement may be swift and the rewards generous. The Accounting profession offers a vast arena of employment potential. Typical places of employment include accounting departments in governmental agencies, financial institutions, private business and industry and public accounting firms. Other job titles may be tax accountant, cost accountant, staff accountant, government accountant, auditor, junior accountant or comptroller. The accounting paraprofessional positions are found in the areas of public accounting, private accounting, nonprofit accounting, auditing, taxation, cost accounting and managerial positions. Accounting paraprofessional job titles may include accounting clerk, auditing clerk, bookkeeper, bank teller, payroll clerk, accounting assistant, loan clerk, tax preparer, and account representative.

From hospitality to healthcare, banking to small business, accounting professionals provide the knowledge essential for success in today’s marketplace. Employment of bookkeeping, accounting, and audit clerks is expected to grow 14% between 2010 and 2020. For those electing to pursue a bachelor’s degree, students may transfer credits earned toward a four-year college or university. A bachelor’s degree in accounting will prepare graduates for supervisory and management positions, or designation as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

Salary Ranges: $25,000 - $40,000

Note: All salary estimations are based on current position and educational trends. Blue Ridge Community and Technical College cannot guarantee that the projections given will be the salaries students or graduates will ultimately receive.