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Accounting

The Accounting and Finance department prepares students for successful careers in private, public, and governmental financial sectors, as well as successful transfer to advanced degrees in accounting and finance.  

The Accounting department strives to involve students in national organizations and achieve national certifications, and seeks to ingrain professionalism, ethics, and analytic skills in students that are vital to highly successful careers and quality of life.

For more information regarding credentialing and accreditation please see the Accreditation page.

This program may provide prior learning credit and extended learning opportunities for persons previously or currently employed in related professions.

For more information see the Credit for Prior Learning page.

Available Degrees and Certificates with Curriculum Maps

Associate of Applied Science

One Year Certificate

Less-Than-One-Year Certificate

FAQ

Are there specific program recommendations?

It is highly recommended that students complete pre-collegiate courses to gain math skills in the first terms of their program. At a minimum completion of MTH 070 or testing above MTH 070 is recommended before beginning the core courses in this degree.

Students interested in accounting should work closely with their academic advisor to create a plan that addresses their specific career interests. Advanced training may be required for certain occupations, and transfer degrees may be more appropriate for students intending to further their education beyond Klamath Community College.

What is the difference between an accountant and a CPA?

A CPA is an accountant who has passed the Uniform CPA Examination. Accountants are able to legally sign tax returns or represent clients during IRS tax audits. CPAs are able to audit books and prepare financial reports. CPAs are also required to complete 80 hours of continuous professional education every two years.

Where can accountants work?

Typically accountants can work as either a public, management, government account or as an internal auditor. Each of these specialties require at least a bachelor's degree. You can also choose a specialty within each of these fields, like healthcare or sports team accounting.

What does a forensic accountant do?

Forensic accountants investigate financial evidence in cases ranging from divorce to capital crimes. Forensic accountants require extra education in the form of a forensic accounting program. Many forensic accountants work for police departments, the FBI or CIA, while some work for private companies to deal with fraud and embezzlement.

What kind of person makes a good accountant?

A good candidate for the accounting program/career is detail oriented, an analytical thinker, and has good communication skills. It helps to have a good grasp of critical thinking and technology before entering the program, since those are critical skills in the field. Accountants must also have a high degree of integrity.

Careers in Accounting

Median Annual Salary

  • United States:
    $45,560
  • Oregon State:
    $48,268
  • Klamath  Region:
    $47,331

2021-2030 Employment Projection

3.5% Growth

Entry Level Educational Requirements:

Associate Degree

Prospective Jobs

Accountant Bookkeeper Payroll Clerk
Accounting Manager Internal Auditor Government Accountant

 

All data was gathered from the State of Oregon Employment Department and Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Data provided for a bookkeeper position. For a different employment forecast please visit the State of Oregon Employment Department.

Contact Accounting

Lacey Hammond
Program Lead
541-880-2258