Program - Accounting Practitioner

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Accounting Practitioner

Program Information

The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Accounting Practitioner degree program is designed for students interested in preparing for entry-level positions in accounting. The AAS degree combines general education and business concepts and procedures to fully prepare the graduate for employment. Students can complete the coursework on a full- or part-time basis; however, it is recommended that the degree be completed within four years. For assistance in program planning, or to explore additional transfer options, students should schedule a time to meet with an academic advisor. This degree may transfer in part or in its entirety to baccalaureate institutions. Students should meet with a representative of the transfer institution when planning their program. A student who completes this degree will have met the educational requirements for licensure as a Registered Accounting Practitioner (RAP) in the state of Minnesota and may sit for the RAP exam. An individual must pass the RAP exam and also satisfy a one-year experience requirement to be awarded the RAP license. See an advisor for further information or assistance in planning.

Developmental Courses

Some students may need preparatory courses in the areas of English, mathematics or reading. Courses numbered below 1000 will not apply toward this degree.

  • By completing this program, students will achieve the following learning goals:

    1. Prepare journal entries and financial statements.
    2. Use critical thinking skills to analyze and solve business problems.
    3. Appropriately use technology to solve business problems.
    4. Demonstrate knowledge of business law and ethics to direct action in business scenarios.
    5. Determine tax treatment of basic individual and business situations.
    6. Demonstrate effective business communication skills.
    • A minimum of 60 semester credits in courses numbered 1000 or above.
    • A minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 in courses numbered 1000 or above at ARCC.
    • Satisfy residency requirements.
    • Completion of specific degree requirements.
    • To complete your program, please submit the appropriate application found here.
    • The requirements of this program are subject to change without notice.

     

    NOTE: You are encouraged to contact an academic advisor at 763-433-1230 for course planning assistance and information about transfer credit evaluation and transfer options.

  • 45 credits

    BUS 1101 Introduction to Business 3
    BUS 1104 Written Business Communications 3
    BUS 1105 Individual/Corporate Income Tax 3
    BUS 1112 Computer Concepts & Applications 3
    BUS 1122 Business Ethics and Social Issues 3
    BUS 1134* Computerized Accounting 2
    BUS 1135* Payroll Accounting 2
    BUS 1143 Decision Making using Excel 3
    BUS 2125 Financial Accounting 4
    BUS 2126* Managerial Accounting 4
    BUS 2215 Legal Environment of Business 3
    Select one of the following:
    3
    BUS 1108 Business Math 3
    MATH 1200* College Algebra 3
    Elective(s) Select CNET 1100, CNET 1105, CNET 1212, or any other
    business course(s) to meet the 45 credit program requirement.
    9
    *Course has prerequisite - see course schedule or catalog description.
  • Complete a minimum of 15 credits in at least three of the ten goals of the MnTC. One course may satisfy more than one goal, but the course credits may be counted only once. 
      1.  Communication
      2.  Critical Thinking 
      3.  Natural Science
      4.  Mathematical/Logical Reasoning 
      5.  History/Social/Behavioral Sciences 
      6.  Humanities/Fine Arts 
      7.  Human Diversity 
      8.  Global Perspective 
      9.  Ethical/Civic Responsibility 
    10.  People and the Environment 
  • The sequence that follows is suggested for full-time students. Part-time students will need more time to complete this program; many courses are offered in the evening or online.

    FIRST YEAR

    Fall Semester Spring Semester
    BUS 1101 3 BUS 1104 3
    BUS 1108 OR MATH 1200 3 BUS 1143 3
    BUS 1112 3 BUS 2125 4
    Gen Ed/MnTC 3 BUS 2215 3
    Gen Ed/MnTC  3 Gen Ed/MnTC 3
    TOTAL  15 TOTAL 16

    SECOND YEAR    

    Fall Semester Spring Semester
    BUS 1105 3 BUS 1122 3
    BUS 2126 4 BUS 1134 2
    BUS or CNET 1100, 1105, 1212 electives 1-8 BUS 1135 2
    Gen Ed/MnTC 3 BUS or CNET 1000,1105,1212 electives 1-7
        Gen Ed/MnTC 3
    TOTAL 11-18 TOTAL 11-17
  • Business certificates commonly earned as you pursue this degree.

  • Employment information is also available at Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.

    • Accountant
    • Agent/Broker
    • Bookkeeper
    • Compensation General Auditor
    • Financial Aid Director
    • Financial Investment Analyst
    • Internal Auditor
    • Management Specialist
    • Personal Financial Planner
    • Procedures Specialist
    • Treasurer

    *Some occupations may require advanced education.

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