The AS in Accounting is a two-year degree designed for both the student who wants to enter the workforce upon graduation and the student who plans to transfer to a four-year college or university. The program offers a balance of general education courses and courses specific to preparing the student for a career in accounting.

1. Demonstrate the underlying concepts of sound management, including planning, organization, leading and controlling.
2. Apply the four Ps (product, pricing, place and promotion) of marketing to a corporation's activities.
3. Demonstrate the ability to prepare financial statements.
4. Demonstrate the ability to analyze and interpret financial statements.
5. Demonstrate knowledge of the American legal system and how it relates to the world of business.
6. Demonstrate knowledge of concepts, tools and applications of finance and investment.
7. Demonstrate knowledge of information system theory, software and hardware.

An estimated 21,000 persons are employed in this large occupation in Minnesota. Most employees are concentrated in large urban areas, but accounting opportunities are available in almost every town. Accountants are employed by businesses, industry, and government agencies. These businesses include public accounting firms, banks, hospitals, school districts, private business of every type, and non-profit governmental agencies. Many accountants are self employed. Accountants may enter as junior accountants and staff auditors and may advance to section supervisor or partner. Accountants working for industry start as trainees and with managerial skills, may advance to management positions such as office manager or controller.

The College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, (800) 621-7440, 30 North LaSalle Street, Suite 2400, Chicago, IL 60602-2504.