Accounting FAQ

We do not have any limits on the number of courses that a student may take each semester.  However, we recommend that students with a full time work schedule take only one course per semester, at least until the intermediate level is completed. It is recommended that students not enroll in Intermediate Accounting during the same semester as Cost Accounting because these courses are very demanding. These courses are the first professional courses in our program and are at the core of what you will need to know for the CPA exam.

Yes. 

Yes.

Individuals must apply to and be offered admission to earn a certificate. A maximum of two courses that will count towards satisfying the requirements for the certificate may be taken at SCPS prior to admission.

Individuals can transfer two courses for academic credit from a regionally accredited college or university. Introductory Accounting I and Introductory Accounting II are required courses for the certificate and may be transferred pending approval. Transfer courses must have been taken within the last three years. Official transcripts and course syllabus are required for an analysis of the content, level, and comparability of the transfer course, as well as the quality of the student’s performance with a grade of B- or better. Official transcripts with a request for transfer of credits can be sent to SCPSregistration@virginia.edu or School of Continuing and Professional Studies, 104 Midmont Lane, PO Box 400764, Charlottesville, VA 22904-4764 Attn: Admission Services 

A bachelor’s degree is required to apply for admission to the post-baccalaureate Certificate in Accounting. As of April 2, 2021, we are no longer accepting applications for the undergraduate certificate in accounting.

Students in the post-baccalaureate accounting program must earn a B- or better in all courses required for the certificate to be awarded; students in the undergraduate accounting program must earn a C or better in all courses required for the certificate to be awarded. Should a grade fall below a B- for post-baccalaureate or C for undergraduate, the student has the option of retaking the course in order to complete the requirements and be awarded the certificate. 

The certificate program includes courses that are both required and recommended as preparation to sit for the Certified Public Accounting (CPA) examination. However, students should pay close attention to the CPA Examination qualifications as it may differ by location. For more information on CPA Examination qualifications visit www.aicpa.org

The average is 2.5 years. Most students begin with one course per semester and then begin taking two courses each semester after the intermediate level. 

Yes, the program will be beneficial to anyone wishing to become an accountant or become more knowledgeable in accounting.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in accounting and auditing is expected to grow 13 percent through 2022 … [those] who have a professional certification, especially CPAs, should have the best prospects.