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.
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 $3,055.95* (on-campus) or $3,975.75* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 15 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
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.
- Certificate in Finance
- Certificate in Economics
- Certificate in Banking
- Master of Business Administration (Accounting)
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.
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!
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