Accounting FAQ

PREPARE FOR THE CPA EXAM

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How many courses per semester may I take?

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.

Are all of the courses in the Certificate in Accounting offered online?

Yes. 

Can I enroll in just a few courses? I’m not interested in applying to and earning the certificate.

Yes.

Can I take courses before applying for admission to the program?

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.

Can I transfer credit into this program from another institution?

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 [email protected] or School of Continuing and Professional Studies, 104 Midmont Lane, PO Box 400764, Charlottesville, VA 22904-4764 Attn: Admission Services 

Do I need a degree to apply for admission to the Certificate in Accounting?

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.

What grades must I earn to be awarded the certificate?

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. 

By completing this program, will I be qualified to sit for the CPA exam?

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

What is the average length of time to finish this program?

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. 

I’m not interested in being a CPA, but I do want to learn accounting to help me in my job. Is your program for me?

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

 

What are the job prospects for accountants?

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. 

Still have questions?  We're here to help!

Answers to those questions asked most frequently about our school by our prospective students can be found here.  If you don't find what you're looking for, please don't hesitate to contact us.  

 

* The information contained on this website is for informational purposes only. The Undergraduate Record and Graduate Record represent the official repository for academic program requirements.

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