Accounting Foundations

Program description

This certificate is designed to meet industry demands for foundational accounting skills while preparing students for the IMA's FMAA certification. It serves as a stackable pathway within our existing accounting programs, with the next step being the Accounting Specialist Certificate. It addresses the evolving needs of the accounting profession, enhances student employability, and provides a strong foundation for further academic and professional growth in the field of accounting.

This certificate is approved through the California Community College Chancellor’s Office. Upon satisfactory completion of the listed requirements and filing an application for graduation with Admissions and Records, the student’s transcript will reflect completion of this certificate.

Program learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this certificate, the student should be able to:

1. Utilize QuickBooks Online to accurately process accounting information and prepare financial reports in compliance with generally accepted accounting principles.
2. Apply the accounting equation and perform all phases of the accounting cycle, including preparation and interpretation of financial statements for service and merchandising organizations in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
3. Analyze and apply core managerial accounting concepts, including cost classifications, cost systems, cost-volume-profit relationships, budgeting, variance analysis, responsibility accounting, differential analysis, strategic performance measurement, and capital budgeting decisions to support effective management decision-making, planning, and control.

Certificate requirements