Career Description
Many accountants and accounting technicians work in certified public accounting firms that perform tax and auditing services but the majority work as management or “private” accountants. Many accountants have their own business as well. The role of the accounting department has expanded greatly. Accountants and accounting technicians help organizations make wise decisions by preparing and analyzing a variety of financial and non-financial information. They manage the assets of the business and ensure the records of the business comply with the law. Accounting staff are critical in the fight to cut waste and fraud, and “forensic accountants” work directly with law enforcement to keep financial systems clean. Accountants use special accounting and finance software, and in small businesses the accountant is often the computer expert.

Program Information
Central Lakes College offers a 60-credit, two-year Accounting Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degree. The A.A.S. degree prepares students by teaching the analytical and technical skills needed for an accounting or financial management career. Students gain experience recording transactions, preparing and analyzing financial reports, and doing realistic simulations on the most popular accounting computer systems. CLC also offers a one-year Accounting Diploma (32 credits) that includes most courses from the first year of the A.A.S. degree. Graduates of this program will have the background to perform entry-level accounting duties such as accounts payable, accounts receivable or payroll.

Program Learning Outcomes
Students will apply and demonstrate job seeking skills.

Demonstrate understanding of accounting concepts and principles to “real-world” applications.

Demonstrate an understanding and application of industry-specific software.

Certifications
Bookkeeper Certification: A certified bookkeeper exam is offered by the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers. This exam covers normal accounting practices of the typical business. This exam can be taken after completing a two-year accounting degree. Registered Accounting Practitioner: The State of Minnesota offers two levels of licensure for accountants. The Registered Accounting Practitioner (RAP) certification requires a two-year accounting degree and authorizes the licensee to perform but not supervise all accounting services on a formal audit. Certified Public Accountant: The (CPA) license requires five years of college education. CPAs are authorized to perform all accounting services and can supervise audits.

Admissions
The two-year accounting degree is offered as a full-time day program, but approximately 60% the degree can be completed in evening and web-based courses.

Transfer Opportunities
At CLC students can complete all pre-business core courses required for a four-year accounting degree. Courses transfer to most four-year colleges in Minnesota. Consult with the Counseling Department to get transfer information on a specific four-year college. The A.A.S. two-year degree in accounting is not intended for transfer. Our graduates often go directly to work.

Employment Opportunities
Businesses are being held to a higher standard of financial reporting. This has expanded the demand for accountants, financial analysts and auditors. The CLC accounting staff receives many notices of job openings that result in placement for our accounting students.

Accountant, AAS -  Program Planning Form (pdf)

Accountant, Diploma  - Program Planning Form (pdf)

Bookkeeping, Certificate - Program Planning Form (pdf)