Accounting | Williston State College

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Accounting

Accounting

Associate in Applied Science (AAS)

Minimum required credits: 62
AAS Student Education Plan (SEP)


Program Description
The WSC Accounting program is continually growing and jobs in the field are abundant. Accounting is currently one of the top associate’s degree in the country. After a two year program with WSC, students will be fully prepared to obtain a local job in the field. 
 
The objective of the Accounting program is to provide graduates with the necessary skills to qualify for positions in places like accounting firms, financial institutions, small businesses, manufacturing companies, department stores, construction companies, and schools.
 

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What You'll Learn

In the Accounting program at Williston State College, you’ll gain the foundational knowledge and practical skills essential for entry-level roles in accounting and finance. This program prepares you for careers in corporate, government, and nonprofit sectors, providing a strong basis for managing financial records, understanding economic principles, and working with various accounting software. Here’s what you’ll explore:

  • Fundamental Accounting Principles:
    Learn the core principles of accounting, including financial reporting, bookkeeping, and the basics of auditing.

  • Financial Statement Analysis:
    Develop the ability to analyze and interpret financial statements, helping businesses make informed decisions.

  • Budgeting and Financial Planning:
    Gain skills in creating budgets and financial plans, crucial for managing cash flow and resources effectively.

  • Taxation Basics:
    Understand tax regulations and practices relevant to individuals and businesses, building foundational knowledge for tax preparation.

  • Computerized Accounting Systems:
    Become proficient in accounting software commonly used in the industry, preparing you for the technological demands of modern accounting.

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Course Requirements
  • ACCT 200 | Elements of Accounting I | 3 credits
  • ACCT 201 | Elements of Accounting II | 3 credits
  • ACCT 205/212 | Cost Accounting or Payroll Accounting | 3 credits
  • ACCT 215 | Business in the Legal Environment | 3 credits
  • ACCT 231 | Income Tax Procedures | 3 credits
  • BADM 201 | Principles of Marketing | 3 credits
  • BADM 202 | Principles of Management | 3 credits
  • BOTE 247 | Spreadsheet Applications | 3 credits
  • COOP 197 | Cooperative Education/Internship | 1 credit
  • ECON 201 | Principles of Microeconomics | 3 credits
  • ECON 202 | Principles of Macroeconomics | 3 credits

In addition to the program-specific requirements, students must complete the general graduation requirements for CTE programs.

Requirements
  1. Completion of at least 62 semester credits (varies by program), including 15 general education credits consisting of one course from each of the following areas:
    • Communication
    • Math, Science, Technology, and Business
    • Humanities or Social Science
    • Wellness
  2. 2.00 (C) minimum institutional grade point average or higher (GPA required in select programs)
  3. Completion of prescribed career-technical curriculum
  4. Successful completion of UNIV/WSC 100 Digital and Financial Literacy for Success (1 credit) or UNIV 101 College Transitions (1 credit)
  5. Program coordinator’s approval
  6. Minimum of 16 credits completed in residence (remedial coursework DOES NOT count)
  7. Maximum of 12 S/U graded credits (program approval required for 13 credits or more)
  8. Maximum of 15 credits of non-traditional college credit (i.e. AP, CLEP, military training, WSC Challenge exam credit, portfolio development, industry training, prior learning, and courses covered under high school articulation agreement)

View course descriptions.
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Possible Career Paths & Salary Ranges

An accounting degree opens up a variety of career options. With the skills learned in this program, you’ll be well-prepared for roles in finance, accounting, auditing, and more. Here are some potential career paths and average salaries:

  1. Bookkeeper

    • Job Role: Maintain financial records, handle invoices, and oversee payroll.
    • Average Salary: $45,000 per year
  2. Accounts Payable/Receivable Specialist

    • Job Role: Manage incoming and outgoing financial transactions, ensuring accuracy in financial records.
    • Average Salary: $48,000 per year
  3. Payroll Specialist

    • Job Role: Handle payroll processing, tax deductions, and employee compensation.
    • Average Salary: $50,000 per year
  4. Junior Accountant

    • Job Role: Support senior accountants by preparing financial statements, performing audits, and reconciling accounts.
    • Average Salary: $53,000 per year
  5. Tax Preparer

    • Job Role: Assist individuals and businesses with tax return preparation and ensure compliance with tax laws.
    • Average Salary: $49,500 per year
  6. Opportunities for Advancement:
    Many accounting graduates choose to pursue additional certifications or degrees, such as a bachelor’s in accounting or the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation. These pathways can lead to advanced roles such as accountant, financial analyst, and auditor, often with higher earning potential.

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Estimated Cost of Attendance
Estimated Cost of Attendance On Campus Estimated Cost of Attendance Off Campus Off Campus with Parent
$19,519 $23,086 $14,468


Faculty

Maren

Maren Furuseth

Professor and Program Coordinator of Accounting
Business and Trades Technology Department
1410 University Avenue
Western Star (CTE) 143
701.774.4298
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