Accounting
- Associate Degree
Program Number:
Program Credits:
Estimated Total Cost:
Typical Start:
Accountants are in demand in every business and industry. It may be a good fit for you if you are detail-oriented, like to have things organized, and have strong problem-solving skills.
Businesses rely on their accounting departments to provide a clear, concise, and accurate financial picture and use the information accountants provide to make crucial decisions. Accounting relates to all aspects of an operation, so the ability to work as part of a team is essential. Payroll, accounts payable and receivable, budgets, and financial reports are some of the responsibilities of an accountant.
The associate’s degree program is designed for both the person looking for an entry-level position in accounting and the one who already has accounting responsibilities and would like to learn more. Instruction takes place in a traditional face-to-face environment, an online format, through interactive distance learning, or a blend of the formats. The Accounting After Hours program combines evening classroom instruction and online learning. Students learn accounting software, spreadsheet applications, and relevant technology.
Accounting 2020-2021 Graduation Employment Stats
| Graduates | 38 |
| Graduates Responding | 11 |
| Employed in Related Occupation | 8 |
| Employed in Non-related Occupations | 1 |
| Seeking Employment | 1 |
| Continuing Education | 2 |
| Not in Labor Market | 0 |
Salary Data - Related Employment
| Part Time | Full Time | |
|---|---|---|
| Responding | 4 | 4 |
| Average Hours Per Week | 40 | |
| Median Hourly Wage | $19.23 | |
| Hourly Wage Range | $16.00-$25.60 | |
| Median Annual Salary | $40,000 |
Respondents in Related Occupations
- Accountant, Accounting Associate, Accounting Manager, Accounting Specialist, Administrative Assistant, Corporate Accountant, Junior Accounting, Payroll Specialist
Career Opportunities
Program Outcomes
- Living responsibly
- Refining professionalism
- Cultivating passion
- Process financial transactions throughout the accounting cycle
- Analyze financial and business information to support planning and decision making
- Perform payroll preparation, reporting, and analysis tasks
- Perform cost accounting preparation, reporting, and analysis tasks
- Perform organization and/or individual tax accounting preparation, reporting, and analysis tasks
- Identify internal controls to reduce risk
Admission Requirements:
College Requirements
Application:
Application Fee:
Software and Technology
Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.
If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form [1].
Computer/Laptop Hardware
- Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
- Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
- Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.
Software Needs
- Western uses the Blackboard Learning Management System. Some courses may use Zoom or Microsoft Teams to meet and work virtually. Visit our website for guidance on how to access and use these tools [2].
- Office 365 (available to download for free once you have a student email)
- Recommended web browsers: Chrome or Firefox
For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes [3] on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.
Campus Resources
- Western has several computer labs available. Visit our website to find open hours and locations on the La Crosse campus [4]. Or find information on how to access resources on our Regional Locations web page [5].
- The Learning Commons has computers, webcams, and microphones available for in-house use. Our librarians recommend checking your local public library for computer access on the weekends. Staff members can also provide information on free, off-campus Wi-Fi spots. Contact them at LearningCommons@westerntc.edu [6] or call 608-785-9198.
Need Assistance?
- Contact the Learning Commons [7]! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.
Career Pathways:
Accounting
Prior Learning:
Previous education and work experience could qualify for Credit for Prior Learning, saving you time and money. Find out more [8] about what may apply to this program.
Technical Diploma:
Associate Degree:
Courses
The following list is not the official course list for this program. It is intended to give students an idea of what coursework will be required.
Current students should use the MyWestern [9] self-service portal when registering for class.