Individuals interested in preparing themselves with a solid foundation in the field of Accounting before taking the plunge into a four year degree will find an Associate in Accounting degree ideal. These programs will allow students to consider accounting specializations in business, medical, financial, and marketing industries among others. The degree will establish its holders as qualified entry-level candidates for a number of accounting positions and will prime them to complete a Bachelor degree program.
Students will learn basic accounting principles as they apply to economic theory, strategic decision-making and ethics. They will be introduced to bookkeeping techniques both traditional and computerized. Available concentrations include, but are not restricted to, Acquisition Management, Banking Service, Business Administration, Economics, Fashion Merchandising, Human Resources, Marketing, Medical Assisting, Medical Office Management or Office Management. There are also opportunities through such programs to pursue a Controllership certificate.
Opportunities in entry-level positions in the field will open up to associate degree holders. Associates will be equipped for positions as bookkeepers and clerks, as well as internships that will establish degree holders as favorable candidates for Bachelor programs as they pursue advancement in the field. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that bookkeeping and clerk positions are standard choices to get a foot in the door in the accounting and finance industries. The Bureau reports also that accountants and auditors are expected to experience much faster than average employment growth from 2008-2018. The groundwork laid by this degree and the work experience that it makes available will equip Associates with the knowledge and skills to succeed in a Bachelor program and subsequent lucrative opportunities as a CPA.
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Resources to help you evaluate an Associate in Accounting career:
- Best of the Web: Accounting
- Best of the Web Blogs: Accounting
- US Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment Statistics: Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks
- US Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment Statistics: Occupational Outlook Handbook: Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks
- US Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition: Accountants and Auditors
