AA in Accounting, San Mateo Colleges - College of San Mateo

San Mateo, California

24 Months

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About this course

The Accounting Associate in Arts Degree Program at the College of San Mateo is designed to prepare students for a variety of positions in the accounting field. The program provides foundational knowledge in accounting principles and skills necessary for roles such as bookkeeper, payroll specialist, and staff accountant. Many students begin working part-time after completing initial courses and continue their employment while fulfilling degree requirements. The program also emphasizes the importance of accounting courses for those planning to transfer to a four-year institution, especially for students interested in continuing in Business Administration. The curriculum includes core courses in financial and managerial accounting, the use of QuickBooks software, and general education requirements to meet the 60-unit minimum for an associate degree.

Why this course is highly recommended

This program is ideal for students seeking to enter the accounting field with solid foundational knowledge and practical skills. It is especially beneficial for those interested in part-time work or preparing for transfer to a bachelor's degree program in Business or Accounting. The coursework provides a strong base in financial statements, use of accounting software, and accounting procedures, making graduates well-prepared for various entry-level positions.

Specialisation

The program offers specialisation through courses focused on practical accounting skills such as QuickBooks setup and service, payroll, and merchandising business. Students can also choose elective courses in other accounting or business-related subjects to tailor their learning experience according to their career goals.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

9.16L

Living cost

Degree requirements

To complete the Associate in Arts Degree in Accounting, students must earn a total of 60 units, including 17.5 units of core courses such as accounting procedures, financial and managerial accounting, and QuickBooks. An additional 6 units of elective courses in accounting or business are required, along with general education coursework to meet the total unit requirement.

English language test

DUOLINGO

PTE

IELTS

5.5

TOEFL

Career prospects

Graduates of this program can pursue roles such as account resolution specialist, accounts receivable clerk, accounts payable clerk, bookkeeper, billing specialist, payroll accounting technician, payroll specialist, and staff accountant. The program also prepares students for further transfer to four-year universities for advanced studies in Business or Accounting.

FAQs

What are the core courses included in this program?

Core courses include Accounting Procedures, Personal Financial Planning, Ten-Key Skills, Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, QuickBooks setup and payroll, and spreadsheet applications.

Can I transfer to a four-year university after this program?

Yes, the program is designed to help students meet lower division major requirements for transfer to California State University, the University of California, or other colleges and universities.