The Career
Accountants, accounting assistants and bookkeepers are important to any business because of their abilities to analyze, record, organize, summarize and interpret business information. They help companies and organizations run efficiently and effectively by keeping records accurate and ensuring that taxes and other payments are made on time. Accountants, auditors, accounting assistants and bookkeepers work for corporations, partnerships, sole proprietorships, not-for-profits and governments across the globe.
Advances in computer technology have greatly changed the way these professionals and paraprofessionals do their work. Recent changes in federal law, like the Sarbanes Oxley Act, have created new opportunities in the field of accounting.
Professional Traits
Those pursuing a career in this field should:
- Have an aptitude for math
- Be able to analyze, compare and interpret facts and figures quickly
- Clearly communicate the results of their work to clients and managers both verbally and in writing
- Be good at working with people, business systems and computers
- Have a high standard of integrity
Employment And Salary Information
The accounting profession is experiencing average growth, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. By 2022, the number of positions is expected to increase by 11 percent.
In May 2012, the median earnings of bookkeeping, accounting and auditing clerks were $35,170. Their salaries ranged from less than $21,610 (lowest 10 percent) to more than $54,310 (top 10 percent).
The Program
Accounting is the language of business and the East Central College Accounting program is designed to provide the foundation required for modern accounting and business professionals to excel in today’s professional environment.
The program provides many courses and several degree options for students who want to enter the field. Accounting classes are characterized by small size, use of current technology, instructors who are willing to provide assistance and a modern business lab environment in the accounting area for additional assistance.
Students also have the opportunity to network with local and regional business leaders through classroom visits, business department-sponsored conferences and internships. ECC has also worked closely with regional universities and colleges to design a curriculum for students planning to transfer to four-year institutions.
Admissions Requirements
Student must have completed:
- High school diploma or the equivalent (documentation sent to the registration office)
- Application for admission
- A placement test as specified by the college. (please note: some coursework requires minimum placement results.)
Transfer Options
The AAS degree is designed for students seeking employment immediately upon graduation. However, many of the credits, particularly the general education electives received with this degree, may qualify as transfer credit by four-year schools.
Please note that these decisions are made solely by the bachelor degree-granting institution, not East Central College. Students seeking to transfer are advised to contact the institution of their choice before beginning a program or reviewing other degrees and coursework offered through ECC.
Accreditation
East Central College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
30 N. LaSalle St., Suite 2400
Chicago, Illinois 60602-2504
800-621-7440
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