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 information regarding credentialing and accreditation please see the Accreditation page.
Available Degrees and Certificates with Curriculum Maps
Associate of Applied Science
- Accounting AAS (curriculum map | catalog)
One Year Certificate
Less-Than-One-Year Certificate
FAQ
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% GrowthEntry Level Educational Requirements:
Associate DegreeProspective 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.
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