Certificate in Accounting

Hours: 12 On-Campus Online

About

The Certificate in Accounting at Fort Hays State University is designed for non-accounting majors seeking to acquire a strong credential in accounting. This certificate provides foundational knowledge and skills in the field, enhancing qualifications within the applicant’s primary area of study or serving as a valuable standalone credential. The entire certificate is offered online, providing flexibility and accessibility to students nationwide, while remaining competitive with top programs across the country.

Why pursue a Certificate in Accounting at Fort Hays State University?

FHSU’s Certificate in Accounting is designed to offer a flexible, practical, and comprehensive education in accounting. It provides a strong foundation in accounting principles and practices, preparing students for entry-level positions or career advancement in the field. The certificate’s online format offers unparalleled convenience, allowing students to balance their studies with personal and professional responsibilities.

What distinguishes this certificate is its alignment with current industry standards. Faculty members, who are experts in the field, continually update course materials to reflect the latest trends and advancements in accounting. This ensures that students gain the most relevant and up-to-date knowledge. Fort Hays State University's strong reputation, coupled with the certificate’s rigorous curriculum and practical focus, makes it a valuable asset for anyone looking to advance in accounting or deepen their qualifications with specialized knowledge.

Who is this program for?

The Certificate in Accounting is ideal for non-accounting majors who wish to strengthen their qualifications with a solid understanding of accounting. The certificate offers flexibility and practical experience, catering to the diverse needs of its students.

Non-accounting majors seeking accounting knowledge
Professionals looking to enhance their credentials
Individuals pursuing a career change to accounting
Students needing an accounting supplement to their primary field of study
Non-degree-seeking students wanting a standalone credential

Real-World Applications

The Certificate in Accounting is carefully designed to equip students with the practical skills needed for real-world applications in their careers. From the start, students engage in accounting tasks that closely mirror those encountered in the workplace, such as preparing financial statements and analyzing balance sheets and income statements. These hands-on experiences ensure students are well-prepared and confident in performing key accounting functions across various business environments.

Additionally, the certificate incorporates case studies and projects that allow students to apply the concepts they are learning to real-world scenarios. This approach helps students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, both of which are essential for success in any accounting role.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Staying current with the latest trends and advancements in accounting is essential for professional success, and the Certificate in Accounting prioritizes this. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect new technologies, regulations, and best practices in the field.

Beyond the curriculum updates, faculty members actively engage in continuing education and professional development. They bring this fresh knowledge into the classroom, offering students insights into the latest industry developments. This proactive approach ensures students are well-prepared to succeed in a dynamic and competitive job market. As a result, students are equipped to lead and innovate in their accounting careers by staying ahead of industry trends.

Hands-on Activities

Our Certificate in Accounting emphasizes hands-on learning, enabling students to tackle real-world accounting challenges, such as preparing basic financial statements and analyzing balance sheets and income statements. This practical experience helps students build confidence and proficiency in essential accounting skills.

What You’ll Learn:

Fundamental accounting principles
Financial statement preparation
Cost accounting techniques
Managerial accounting practices

How You’ll Learn:

Interactive online coursework
Hands-on accounting projects
Case studies and real-world applications
Faculty-led discussions and mentorship

Courses

The core curriculum of the Certificate in Accounting includes foundational courses that cover the principles of accounting. Students then have an opportunity to select two additional courses from intermediate, cost, and tax accounting, enabling them to explore specific areas of interest and build expertise.

ACCT 203: Principles of Accounting I

This course is a study of accounting as a means of communicating financial information about a business enterprise. Emphasis is placed on the basic concepts used in preparing and interpreting external financial statements.

ACCT 204: Principles of Accounting II

This course is a continuation of ACCT 203 with added emphasis on preparing and interpreting accounting information to aid management in the decision-making process.

ACCT 402: Income Tax Procedure

This course is a study of a broad range of federal tax concepts and types of taxpayers, including the role of taxation in the business decision-making process. This follows the AICPA model tax curriculum.

Discover the full Certificate in Accounting course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Students who complete the Certificate in Accounting are well-prepared for a variety of rewarding careers in the accounting field. These positions offer opportunities for growth, stability, and professional fulfillment within a dynamic and essential industry.

Bookkeeper

Bookkeepers maintain financial records, handle accounts payable and receivable, and ensure the accuracy of financial documentation. They play a critical role in businesses’ financial health by keeping meticulous records of all financial transactions.

Accounting Assistant

Accounting assistants support accountants and auditors by performing clerical tasks, preparing financial reports, and assisting with audits. They help ensure that accounting processes run smoothly and efficiently.

Payroll Clerk

Payroll clerks manage employee compensation, including calculating wages, processing payroll, and maintaining payroll records. They ensure that employees are paid accurately and on time.

Financial Analyst

Financial analysts evaluate financial data, prepare reports, and provide insights to help businesses make informed financial decisions. They play a vital role in strategic planning and financial management.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $2,444.76* (on-campus) or $3,180.60* (online) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 12 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

Apply

Related Programs

Fort Hays State University offers a range of accounting programs, providing students with various pathways to enhance their business acumen. Whether students are interested in pursuing a bachelor's degree, a master's degree, or additional certificates, these related programs are designed to complement and expand their accounting expertise, helping them to achieve their academic and professional goals.

FAQ

How long does it take to complete the certificate?

The Certificate in Accounting can be completed in three semesters.

What jobs are available to students with this certificate?

Students who complete the Certificate in Accounting can pursue roles such as bookkeeper, accounting assistant, payroll clerk, and financial analyst.

Can the certificate be completed entirely online?

The entire certificate is available online, providing flexibility for students with various schedules.

How does this certificate compare to other accounting certificates?

This certificate is highly competitive within the Kansas Board of Regents system and stands among the top online certificates nationwide. It offers a blend of flexibility and practical, hands-on learning experiences.

Information about the Department of Economics, Finance and Accounting

The Department of Economics, Finance and Accounting at FHSU equips students with the knowledge and skills to manage financial resources effectively and ethically across both public and private sectors. The department offers highly sought-after degree programs in accounting, finance, and international business and economics—each designed to prepare students for versatile and in-demand career paths.

Students benefit from career-focused internship opportunities, personalized mentoring from expert faculty, and the flexibility of fully online degree options. The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of the business world, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to navigate a competitive job market.

Additionally, the Robbins Banking Institute enhances professional development in the banking sector by offering a practical, real-time curriculum tailored for rewarding careers in finance and banking. With a strong emphasis on student success and growth, the department’s faculty provides dedicated support to help each student reach their full potential.

Student Organizations

While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.

Accounting Club: This club provides accounting students with valuable opportunities to connect with peers, explore career paths, and prepare for professional success. The club helps members gain insight into the diverse opportunities within the accounting field and facilitates introductions to potential employers. Regular meetings often feature guest speakers, professionals with accounting degrees, who share real-world experiences and career advice.
Student Chapter of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE): The ACFE organization brings together students from a variety of disciplines to promote awareness, detection, and prevention of fraud in the business world.
Economics Club: The FHSU Economics Club is open to all students, regardless of major or prior knowledge of economics. Its mission is to promote interest in and understanding of economic concepts through engaging activities and discussions. A hallmark project of the club is the creation of the “Student Price Index,” a collaborative research initiative that explores FHSU students’ economic expectations. Each year, club members also have an opportunity to travel to a major U.S. city, enhancing their academic and professional development through real-world experiences.
Finance Club: The FHSU Finance Club is dedicated to supporting the professional, educational, and social development of students with an interest in finance. The club fosters meaningful connections among students, faculty, and professionals in the business and finance sectors. Through guest speakers and educational trips across the U.S., members gain valuable insights into the finance industry and explore potential career opportunities.
International Business Club: This club aims to enhance students’ understanding of global business practices and economic issues from a variety of cultural and international perspectives. Through discussions, activities, and international travel experiences, the club fosters professional, educational, and social development. Its ultimate goal is to cultivate globally minded citizen-leaders prepared to navigate and contribute to an increasingly interconnected world.

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