Online Fundamentals of Accounting Certificate Program
Generally, the Fundamentals of Accounting Certificate is designed for individuals who haven’t previously studied accounting. It will help business professionals develop a solid foundation in the principles and practices of accounting, including financial reporting, cost accounting, and taxation, through online introductory and intermediate accounting courses. This certificate is especially designed for small business owners, aspiring entry level financial accountants, aspiring entry level cost accountants, managers with budget responsibilities, and other individuals who use and rely on accounting information to make business decisions. Students can tailor the certificate to their specific needs by choosing one of the courses required to complete the certificate.
Students who complete the Fundamentals program will be ready to take advanced-level accounting courses, particularly those included in the Advanced Accounting Certificate program.
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About the Online Fundamentals of Accounting Certificate Program
Fundamentals of Accounting Certificate Program Goals and Courses
Program Goals
Fundamentals of Accounting Certificate students will demonstrate an understanding of:
- The financial accounting process, including the identification, recording, and communication of accounting information to external users using generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).
- The managerial accounting process, including cost classification, analysis, and reporting using job order, standard, process, and activity-based costing systems, and the principles underlying the budgeting process.
- Financial information reported in financial statements and annual reports.
- The field of taxation with particular attention to individual income taxation at the Federal level.
Required Courses
Students are required to complete four courses.
The following three courses are required:
- ACCOUNT 201 Intro to Financial Accounting
- ACCOUNT 202 Intro to Managerial Accounting
- ACCOUNT 208 Income Tax I
In addition, one of the following courses is required:
- ACCOUNT 308 Income Tax II
- ACCOUNT 320 Forensic Accounting
- ACCOUNT 330 Accounting Information Systems
View course descriptions
Fundamentals of Accounting Certificate Program Tuition
Post-baccalaureate students at Northwestern's School of Professional Studies pay per course. For more information about financial obligations and tuition, please visit the Tuition page.Admission for the Fundamentals of Accounting Certificate Program
In addition to completing an online application, you'll also need to submit a few supplemental materials. A list of requirements for admission including application deadlines and tips on how to apply can be found on the Admission page.Fundamentals of Accounting Certificate Program Registration Information
Whether you're a first-time registrant or current and returning student, all students register using our online student registration and records systems. Important information about registering for courses at SPS, including registration timelines and adding or dropping courses in which you are already enrolled, can be found on the Registration Information page.Find out more about the Fundamentals of Accounting Certificate Program
