2025-2026 College Catalog

Accounting Certificate (ACN)

Type: Career, Certificate (C1)

Open Admissions

Division: STEM and Business

 

The Accounting Certificate, a 27-credit program, prepares students for a variety of entry-level accounting positions in small to medium size businesses, partnerships and corporations. Students learn how to analyze, calculate, record transactions, maintain financial records, and prepare financial reports.  Other topics include managerial accounting and taxation, as well as budgeting and accounting for payroll, accounts receivables and accounts payables.

In addition, communication and business technology are emphasized throughout the program.  Both oral and written communication skills are integrated into the course work.  Students also gain hands-on computer experience: specialized training is provided in Excel, Quickbooks, and individual tax preparation software.

Because all the courses in this certificate program are also required in the Accounting Degree (ACD) program, students may continue on to complete the degree program.
 

If you have questions related to program admissions or applications, please contact info@northshore.edu or call 978-762-4188.

 

 

First Year

Fall

ACC108Financial Accounting

3
BUS120Computer Applications for Business

3
CMP101Composition 1

3
MGT102Principles of Management

3
Total Credit Hours:12

Spring

ACC110Small Business Computerized Accounting

1
ACC103Computerized Accounting with QuickBooks

1
ACC201Intermediate Accounting 1

3
ACC203Managerial Accounting

3
ACC208Taxation

3
BUS103Advanced Excel

1
OPN-ELECTIVE
Open Elective

3
Total Credit Hours:15

Requirement Notes

ACC108 may be substituted with ACC101 and ACC102. 

Program Note

Communication and Mathematics proficiency required to graduate.

See guided pathway sheets for advising information specific to your area of focus.

Total Credit Hours: 27

 
Program Student Learning Outcomes
  • Comprehend the importance of accounting, and apply accounting principles and methods to help achieve the organizational goals.
  • Utilize industry-used business software, including specialized accounting and tax platforms, to process financial information, prepare reports, analyze data, and make sound decisions.
  • Demonstrate professionalism in the workplace through the appropriate use of interpersonal communication, resource management, and the ability to work in teams.
  • Evaluate ethical dilemmas in the business environment and apply appropriate ethical decision making as it relates to accounting.
  • Examine subjects such as business law, management, marketing skills, as well as receive exposure to a broad-based liberal arts education.

Occupational Skills Required
  • active listening
  • mathematical reasoning
  • oral and written comprehension
  • deductive reasoning
  • critical thinking

Experiential Learning Required in Program

Experiential Learning Optional in Program

Most Common Linked Occupation Title – All Education Levels
  • Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks
  • Most Common Linked Occupation Title – Associate’s or Less
  • Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks