Certificate in Accounting
Hours: 12 On-Campus Online
About
The Certificate in Accounting at Fort Hays State University is tailored for non-accounting majors who wish to gain a solid credential in accounting. This program provides essential knowledge and skills in accounting, enhancing your qualifications in your primary field of study or serving as a valuable standalone credential. The entire program is available online, offering flexibility and accessibility to students nationwide while also competing with top programs in the nation.
Why pursue a Certificate in Accounting at Fort Hays State University?
Fort Hays State University's Certificate in Accounting program is uniquely designed to provide a flexible, practical, and comprehensive education in accounting. The certificate provides a solid foundation in accounting principles and practices that can prepare you for entry-level accounting positions or advancement in your current role in accounting. The program's online format offers unmatched convenience and accessibility, allowing students to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments.
Moreover, the program's alignment with current industry standards and practices sets it apart. Our faculty, experts in the field, continuously update course materials to reflect the latest advancements and trends in accounting. This ensures that students are learning the most relevant and up-to-date information. Fort Hays State University's reputation, combined with the program's rigorous curriculum and practical focus, make this certificate an invaluable asset for anyone looking to advance in the accounting field or complement their existing qualifications with specialized accounting knowledge.
Who is this program for?
The Certificate in Accounting program is ideal for non-accounting majors who want to enhance their qualifications with a solid understanding of accounting. It is also perfect for professionals seeking to advance their careers, individuals contemplating a career change, and students looking to supplement their primary field of study with valuable accounting skills. This program offers flexibility and practical experience to meet the diverse needs of our 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 program at Fort Hays State University is meticulously designed to prepare students for real-world applications in their professional careers. From the outset, students engage in practical accounting tasks that mirror those they will encounter in the workplace. These tasks include preparing fundamental financial statements and analyzing balance sheets and income statements. Such hands-on experiences ensure graduates are knowledgeable and confident in performing essential accounting functions in various business environments.
Furthermore, the program integrates case studies and projects, allowing students to apply concepts they are learning to real-world simulated problems. This practice is valuable in helping students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, 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 crucial for professional success, and the Certificate in Accounting program at Fort Hays State University is committed to this principle. Our curriculum is continually updated to incorporate new technologies, regulations, and best practices in the accounting field.
In addition to the updated curriculum, our faculty members actively engage in continuing education and professional development. They bring this fresh knowledge back into the classroom, providing students with insights into the latest industry developments. This proactive approach keeps our students ahead of the curve and ensures they have the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in a dynamic and competitive job market. Our graduates are well-positioned to lead and innovate in their accounting careers by staying current with the latest advancements.
Hands-on Activities
The Certificate in Accounting program at Fort Hays State University focuses on hands-on learning, allowing students to practice solving real-world accounting challenges involving creating basic financial statements and examining balance sheets and income statements. This practical experience helps students gain confidence and proficiency in crucial 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
The core curriculum of the Certificate in Accounting program includes fundamental courses such as ACCT 203 and ACCT 204, which cover the basics of financial and managerial accounting. Students then choose two additional courses from intermediate, cost, and tax accounting, allowing them to delve deeper into specific areas of interest and 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.
Fort Hays State University’s Certificate in Accounting program graduates are well-prepared for many rewarding careers in accounting. With a solid foundation in essential accounting practices and principles, our alumni can pursue roles such as bookkeeper, accounting assistant, payroll clerk, and financial analyst. These careers offer growth, stability, and professional fulfillment opportunities in 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.
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, our related programs are designed to complement and expand their accounting expertise, helping them to achieve their academic and professional goals.
- Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting
- Master of Business Administration (Accounting)
- Certificate in Finance
- Certificate in Economics
The Certificate in Accounting program can be completed in three semesters.
Graduates can pursue roles such as bookkeeper, accounting assistant, payroll clerk, and financial analyst.
The entire Certificate in Accounting program is available online, providing flexibility for students with various schedules.
Fort Hays State University's program is competitive with other programs within the Kansas Board of Regents system and top online programs nationally. It offers 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.
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.
The Tiger Money Mentors Program, housed within the Department of Economics, Finance and Accounting at FHSU, is led by a faculty expert in financial planning. This initiative offers free, confidential financial guidance provided by a team of trained, financially knowledgeable student mentors dedicated to helping their peers manage personal finances effectively.
Through one-on-one sessions, Tiger Money Mentors assist students with a wide range of financial topics, including:
- Organizing personal finances and managing expenses
- Creating and maintaining a realistic budget
- Developing plans to achieve both short- and long-term financial goals
- Understanding student loans and exploring repayment options
- Reviewing job offers and employee benefits
- Obtaining and reviewing credit reports
- And more!
- Certificate
- Minor
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- MBA
- On-Campus
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