Accounting

Program

Degree Type

Associate of Science

Mission

The Accounting program at River Valley Community College prepares students to build a strong foundation in accounting principles and practices, preparing them for immediate employment, career advancement, or transfer to a four-year institution. Our mission is to empower students to achieve their career and academic goals through a curriculum that fosters technical proficiency, ethical decision-making, and lifelong learning.

Program Overview
Accounting is a cornerstone of every successful organization. The Associate of Science in Accounting at River Valley Community College provides a comprehensive foundation in accounting principles, financial analysis, and business practices. This program prepares students for entry-level positions in accounting and related fields or for transfer to a four-year institution to pursue advanced study.

Students gain technical proficiency in areas such as financial and managerial accounting, taxation, cost accounting, and business law, while developing essential skills in communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Coursework integrates technology applications, including spreadsheets, to reflect current industry standards.

Graduates are prepared for roles such as bookkeeper, accounting clerk, payroll specialist, and tax preparer, and will possess the analytical and professional competencies required for advancement in finance and business environments. More than a credential, this program is your key to your professional growth and financial expertise.

Admission and Enrollment Information
This program is open enrollment, meaning students must meet the general college admission requirements; no additional program-specific criteria apply. Students may begin the program in any academic term. Full-time and part-time study options are available.

Credits earned through early college or dual-enrollment programs may be applied toward degree requirements. Students who have completed coursework at other accredited institutions should submit official transcripts to the Admissions Office for evaluation of transfer credit.

Program Goals and Outcomes
Program Goals
Goals of the Accounting program include the following:

Provide a Strong Foundation: Equip students with a comprehensive knowledge of accounting principles.
Foster Inclusive Learning: Create a dynamic classroom environment enriched by diverse perspectives, experiences, and goals.
Develop Critical Competencies: Strengthen skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and ethical decision-making.
Provide Engaging Curriculum: Deliver rigorous, forward-focused coursework that incorporates current industry practices and emerging trends, guiding students to explore and identify areas of accounting that align with their interests.
Promote Professional Growth: Encourage leadership, collaboration, and service through coursework and co-curricular opportunities.
Support Academic and Career Pathways: Prepare students for immediate employment, career advancement, or transfer to four-year institutions.

Program Outcomes
Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:

Prepare, analyze, and interpret financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).
Complete tasks in intermediate and cost accounting, including budgeting, cost analysis, and managerial accounting for decision-making.
Apply federal and state tax regulations to prepare accurate individual and business tax returns.
Employ spreadsheets and professional computing tools to process transactions, analyze data, and generate reports.
Use quantitative methods and statistical techniques to evaluate financial performance and support strategic decisions.
Interpret business law principles and apply ethical standards to accounting practices and financial reporting.
Produce clear, concise, and professional written and oral communications tailored to diverse business audiences.
Apply foundational concepts in finance, management, and economics to support accounting decisions within organizational contexts.
Identify accounting issues, analyze alternatives, and recommend solutions using sound judgment and professional standards.
Plan for career advancement or transfer by identifying personal strengths and aligning them with industry opportunities.

Careers & Degree Pathways
Career Opportunities
Graduates are prepared for roles such as: