Minor in Accounting
Hours: 21 On-Campus Online
About
Fort Hays State University offers a Minor in Accounting designed to provide students, whether majoring in business or other fields, with a foundational understanding of accounting principles. This program integrates critical financial and managerial accounting concepts to develop skills applicable to any business environment. It prepares students to excel in their primary profession by giving them a broader perspective on the accounting function that impacts all aspects of any organization.
The minor consists of seven core courses covering principles and intermediate-level accounting topics. These courses are carefully curated to ensure students receive comprehensive exposure to both theoretical frameworks and practical applications. This program is ideal for students aiming to broaden their knowledge in accounting.
Why pursue a Minor in Accounting at Fort Hays State University?
Pursuing a Minor in Accounting at Fort Hays State University equips students with a robust foundation in essential accounting practices alongside their major field of study, enhancing their academic portfolio and career readiness. FHSU's program imparts a deep understanding of fundamental accounting principles, such as financial and managerial accounting, making it a vital supplement for those who aspire to excel in diverse professional environments. This minor complements various major courses, providing a competitive edge in the job market by broadening career options.
The structure of the accounting minor at FHSU is meticulously crafted to cater to both business majors seeking specialized knowledge and non-business majors interested in entering the accounting field. This program strengthens a student's expertise in financial theories. It sharpens their practical skills through rigorous coursework and real-world applications. As students progress through the program, they gain valuable insights into the complexity of financial operations and decision-making processes in business.
Who is this program for?
The Minor in Accounting at FHSU is tailored for diverse students seeking to enhance their understanding and proficiency in accounting. Whether you are a business major looking to specialize further or a non-business major who wants to diversify your skill set, this program offers the tools and insights necessary to advance your career.
- Students majoring in business seeking specialization
- Non-business majors interested in accounting careers
- Students looking for a career in financial analysis or management.
Learning Outcomes
The Minor in Accounting at Fort Hays State University is structured to deliver targeted learning outcomes that align with the needs of the accounting profession and broader business practices. Each course within the program is designed to build upon the latest, ensuring students acquire the necessary knowledge and develop the critical thinking and practical skills essential for success in various accounting roles. By the end of the program, students will be equipped with a comprehensive understanding of accounting principles and ready to apply this knowledge in a professional setting.
Financial Acumen
Students develop the ability to analyze financial statements critically, enabling them to assess an organization's economic health and performance. This skill involves understanding vital financial metrics, evaluating trends over time, and identifying financial strengths and weaknesses within the organization. Mastery of financial understanding allows students to contribute strategically to business decision-making and financial planning processes.
Critical Thinking Skills
Students in the Minor in Accounting build critical thinking skills by actively engaging in hands-on learning, where they analyze case studies and simulations that mirror real-world accounting challenges. These skills are crucial for achieving success in today’s business environment.
Real-World Applications
The Minor in Accounting at FHSU is deeply rooted in practical application, preparing students to handle real-world financial challenges effectively upon graduation. Courses are designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills through case studies, real-world financial data analysis, and simulations. Students learn to apply accounting principles to various situations, from corporate financial management to public accounting.
Moreover, the curriculum emphasizes developing skills to ensure graduates are knowledgeable and confident in performing essential accounting functions in various business environments. Students will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential for success in any accounting role and will boost confidence and competence as future business professionals.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University's accounting curriculum is consistently updated to align with industry standards and technological advancements. This ensures that our students are learning accounting and staying ahead of the curve by mastering up-to-date practices and technologies in the field today.
Additionally, the faculty at FHSU are dedicated to incorporating emerging trends into their teaching. This adaptability ensures that FHSU graduates are well-equipped to apply their accounting knowledge effectively alongside their major field of study.
Hands-on Activities
The Minor in Accounting at Fort Hays State University strongly emphasizes hands-on learning, allowing students to practice solving real-world challenges that they will face in the accounting profession. This includes preparing financial statements and analyzing balance sheets and income statements. Students will also work through activities related to applying the tax law to individuals. This experience will build confidence and proficiency in essential accounting skills.
What You’ll Learn:
- Mastery of financial and managerial accounting fundamentals
- Intermediate-level financial accounting concepts
- Income tax preparation skills
How You’ll Learn:
- Through upper-division specialized courses
- Engaging in real-world case studies
- Interaction with experienced faculty
The Minor in Accounting at Fort Hays State University comprises a carefully structured curriculum that spans foundational knowledge to intermediate-level concepts in accounting. The program includes seven core courses, each designed to build upon the skills and knowledge required to excel in accounting.
ACCT 303: Cost Accounting
This course emphasizes the use of accounting data for (1) planning and controlling routine operations, (2) non-routine decisions, policy making, and long-range planning, and (3) inventory valuation and income determination.
ACCT 305: Intermediate Accounting I
This course presents an overview of the foundation of accounting theory, a study of the accounting cycle, financial statements, and mathematical principles. A comprehensive study of assets is made.
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 Minor in Accounting course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
The Minor in Accounting is intended to complement a student's primary field of study rather than act as an independent program. Career prospects for students will primarily be influenced by their major; however, the additional accounting expertise can enhance their attractiveness to employers and broaden job opportunities.
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 $2,961.90* (on-campus) or $3,859.95* (online)* per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the undergraduate resident/regional tuition rate ($197.46/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online graduate tuition rate (257.33/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.
Related Programs
Students interested in a minor in accounting may also find value in exploring other related programs that Fort Hays State University offers. These programs complement the minor in accounting and provide additional pathways for students to expand their knowledge and skills in related fields. Whether your interest lies in finance, economics, or even non-business areas that benefit from accounting knowledge, FHSU offers a range of options that can be tailored to suit your academic and career aspirations.
A Minor in Accounting equips you with essential financial skills applicable across various industries, enhancing your versatility in the job market. By integrating accounting with your primary field of study, you can strengthen your resume and, once employed, achieve a more comprehensive understanding of your organization's accounting functions.
Obtaining a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license requires fulfilling specific educational requirements, which typically include a set number of accounting and business-related credits—often equivalent to a bachelor's degree in accounting. A Minor in Accounting can provide foundational knowledge and some of the necessary coursework, however, it does not meet the educational requirements to sit for the CPA exam.
Yes, students can pursue a Minor in Accounting at Fort Hays State University regardless of their major. This program complements various fields of study, allowing students from diverse academic backgrounds to enhance their understanding of accounting principles. Whether a student is majoring in a closely related field like business or an entirely different area such as the arts or sciences, they can benefit from the critical financial skills that an accounting minor offers.
Adding a Minor in Accounting significantly enhances career prospects by broadening a graduate's expertise and appeal to potential employers. This academic credential demonstrates a firm grasp of fundamental accounting principles and financial practices. These skills are highly valued in all business sectors. For non-business majors, it provides a competitive edge by diversifying their skill sets and improving their ability to manage the financial aspects of various roles.
Department Information
FHSU’s Department of Economics, Finance, and Accounting provides expertise in effectively and ethically managing money in both public and private sectors for a highly versatile, in-demand career path. Our department provides highly sought-after degrees in accounting, finance, and international business and economics. These programs are backed by career-centered internship opportunities, in-depth mentoring by faculty and staff, and flexible online degrees. Our programs prepare students for in-demand jobs, with courses that span the entire business landscape. The Robbins Banking Institute further enhances career preparation in the area of banking, offering a practical, real-time curriculum for rewarding careers. Our faculty, who are experts in their field and student-focused, support students to maximize individual growth.
While earning your degree is your primary goal, college offers much more than just attending classes. Get involved in extracurricular activities that help you develop leadership skills, learn more about your chosen career, and make a difference in your community.
- Accounting Club: This club offers a valuable opportunity for accounting students to connect with peers and prepare for their future careers. It aims to help members explore the various opportunities available in the field of accounting and introduce them to potential employers. Meetings frequently feature guest speakers who hold accounting degrees and are actively working in the profession.
- Student Chapter of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners: The ACFE organization brings together students from many disciplines to promote the detection and prevention of fraud in business.
- Economics Club: The FHSU Economics Club is available to all students regardless of their major or knowledge of economics with the goal of promoting the study of and interest in economics. The signature activity of the club is to create a “Student Price Index” through a collaborative research project on FHSU student economic expectations. The club members typically take a trip to a major city in the U.S. every year.
- Finance Club: The FHSU Finance Club strives to assist in the professional, educational, and social development of college students interested in finance. The club also encourages interaction between the business sector, faculty, and students at FHSU. As part of club operations, they bring in speakers and take trips around the U.S. to learn more about the finance field.
- International Business Club: This club strives to improve students’ awareness and understanding of global business practices and economic issues. These issues are explored from diverse perspectives. Ultimately, the club aims to develop global citizen-leaders by enhancing students’ professional, educational, and social development through its discussions, activities, and international travel experiences.
The Tiger Money Mentors Program is housed in the Department of Economics, Finance, and Accounting and directed by a financial planning faculty member. This program provides free financial guidance from students you can trust. This is a group of trained, money-savvy students passionate about helping you take care of your finances. They offer one-on-one sessions to answer your financial questions on a variety of financial topics, including:
- Organizing your finances and spending
- Creating and sticking to a budget
- Developing a plan to reach your short- and long-term financial goals
- Understanding your student loans and repayment options
- Reviewing job offers and employee benefits
- Obtaining and reviewing your credit report
- And more!
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