Program Overview
Major ID: 002A
Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring, Summer
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.
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.
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 or junior accountant. The financial accounting technician positions are found in the areas of public accounting, private accounting, non-profit accounting, auditing, taxation, cost accounting and managerial positions.
Program Outcomes
- Complete accounting processing according to GAAP both manually and using accounting software.
- Analyze the effects of basic income and payroll tax rules on individuals and entities.
- Apply fundamental cost and management accounting principles including fixed vs. variable costs, budgeting, variance analysis and other analytical.
- Demonstrate proficiency in using computer software including spreadsheet, account and tax to solve complex business issues.
- Analyze business issues applying accounting and finance theory and ethics.
Program Faculty
Jim O’Halloran
james.o’halloran@saintpaul.edu 651.846.1436
Alli Esther
alli.esther@saintpaul.edu 651.846.1529
Part-time/Full-time Options
Some day, evening, and online class availability. Students may attend full-time or part-time.