Accounting Diploma

Do you like working with numbers, organizing data and communicating with people? Then a career in accounting may be the perfect fit for you. Here at Iowa Lakes, you have the option of pursuing a Certified Professional Bookkeeper Certificate, an Accounting Diploma or an Associate in Applied Science Degree as an Accounting Specialist.

Learn something new every day while acquiring the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in an accounting career. Become familiar with the basic principles of accounting and discover the variety of specialties within this industry, including public accounting, private accounting or governmental and nonprofit accounting.

Prepare for a recession-proof career in a field that’s stimulating, challenging and constantly evolving. Learn how the business world works and gain the skills and experience of a specialist.

Faculty Contact

Erin Latona
Executive Dean of the Estherville Campus
712-362-7913 | elatona@iowalakes.educreate new email

Program Details

PROGRAM LENGTH: 3 Terms

DEGREE: Diploma (35 credits)

CAMPUS: Any, Online

Special Certifications Available

Did You Know?

Starting Salary: $44,153

Average Salary: $67,033

Projected Employment Growth: 1.4%

Online availability 100%

Curriculum

Term 1

Credits: 4

The course examines the accounting methods, principles and terminology needed in the preparation and analysis of financial statements. Included is a study of partnership accounting.


Credits: 3

Emphasis on expository and argumentative writings including a review of usage and mechanics.

Prerequisites: Satisfactory score on the ACT, Accuplacer, ASSET,COMPASS as determined by Iowa Lakes policy


Credits: 3

CSC-110 is an introductory course that surveys a variety of topics to include history, hardware, software, terminology, com­munications, computer ethics, and societal impact of computers. In addition to computer literacy, students will complete hands-on modules using operating systems, word processing, database, presentation, and spreadsheet software; such as Microsoft Office programs.


Credits: 1

Introduces business and accounting students to career opportuni­ties in the business world. The course includes methods of net­working and the processes needed to successfully begin a career.


Credits: 3

Students are given the opportunity to apply human relations concepts and evaluate experience and observations. Social skills required in various occupational settings will be developed, emphasizing how appropriate personal attitudes lead to social and business success.


Term 2

Credits: 4

Continuation of ACC 131, covering corporate accounting, long-term debts, financial analysis, managerial accounting and budgeting concepts.

Prerequisites: ACC 131 – Principles of Accounting I


Credits: 3

This introductory course covers the processes of completing payroll records and implementing payroll procedures. Topics include methods of computing compensation, state and federal laws affecting payroll, mandatory and voluntary payroll deduc­tions, methods of keeping records, and preparation of internal and governmental reports.

Prerequisites: ACC 131 – Principles of Accounting I


Credits: 3

This course is designed to provide hands-on approach to learning how modern computerized accounting systems function. This ap­plication includes the following: general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, bank reconciliation, budgeting, purchase order processing and inventory, sales order processing and inven­tory, fixed assets, and payroll.


Credits: 2

The course emphasizes correct grammar, punctuation, spelling and tone as applicable to written business communications, let­ters and memos. Included are techniques for writing informational, persuasive, sales, and good and bad news messages.


Credits: 3

The fundamentals course develops the basic skills involved in a variety of communication situations, including oral presentations and interpersonal speaking.  Emphasis is placed on organization, audience analysis, vocal and physical delivery, listening, nonverbal communication, critical thinking, and methods of dealing with communication apprehension through class discussion and activities.


Term 3

Credits: 4

The course is designed to prepare students for successful completion of the Certified Bookkeeper National Certification Examination. Included in the course is a review of adjusting entries, correction of accounting errors, payroll accounting, depreciation, inventory, and internal controls and fraud prevention.

Prerequisites: ACC 131 – Principles of Accounting I


Credits: 2

Provides experience in the application of accounting principles to a simulated retail business.

Grading: P/Q


† indicates a course that fulfills the diversity requirement. This course may also fulfill another general AA requirement.