Accounting Foundations Graduate Credit Certificate Program

The Graduate Certificate in Accounting Foundations is a twelve-credit program for those seeking a solid foundation in accounting. Accounting systems collect and organize data about business transactions and activities. These systems also measure performance, communicate business plans and outcomes, and support decision-making. Topics include: (1) structure and content of financial reports, tax returns, and regulatory filings, (2) use of internal controls to protect an organization's resources and the integrity of its records, (3) purposes and procedures of auditing, (4) assembly and use of accounting information to plan and coordinate operations, and to make decisions. Prior knowledge of accounting is not required. Because the program covers the core topics of a baccalaureate accounting program and is delivered at a pace and depth appropriate to graduate students, the program is intensive.

The program is not suitable for those having accounting as their baccalaureate major.

Effective Semester: Fall 2019
Expiration Semester: Spring 2024

Admission Requirements 

Applicants apply for admission to the program via the Graduate School application for admission. Requirements listed here are in addition to Graduate Council policies listed under GCAC-300 Admissions Policies. International applicants may be required to satisfy an English proficiency requirement; see GCAC-305 Admission Requirements for International Students for more information.

Applicants are generally expected to have a minimum combined junior/senior grade-point average of 3.0 (B) on a 4.0 scale.

• Vita or Résumé — Submit a one- to two-page listing of your professional experience and education.
• Statement of Purpose — Describe how your professional experience and goals align with the Certificate in Accounting Foundations. Please do not exceed 500 words.

GRE or GMAT test scores are NOT required.

Certificate Requirements

Requirements listed here are in addition to requirements listed in Graduate Council policy GCAC-212 Postbaccalaureate Credit Certificate Programs.

Courses

Graduate courses carry numbers from 500 to 699 and 800 to 899. Advanced undergraduate courses numbered between 400 and 499 may be used to meet some graduate degree requirements when taken by graduate students. Courses below the 400 level may not. A graduate student may register for or audit these courses in order to make up deficiencies or to fill in gaps in previous education but not to meet requirements for an advanced degree.

Learning Outcomes

1. Communication Skills –The ability to formulate and articulate business ideas individually and collaboratively via print, presentations, and interpersonal interactions. Students will demonstrate effective oral, written and interpersonal communication skills while using technology appropriately in a professional business presentation.
2. Problem Solving/Critical Thinking –The ability to demonstrate problem solving skills using analytical techniques, and adequately address open-ended/unstructured problems with no single correct solution.
3. Data Summarization and Analysis —Select and deploy appropriate data analysis schemes to arrive at reasoned recommendations.

Contact

Certificate Program Head: Steven Huddart

Primary Program Contact: Michelle Rockower

Email: CORAC@smeal.psu.edu

Telephone: (814) 863-0474

Program Website: Accounting Foundations