A student can earn an associate's degree in accounting administration through two main types of programs. The first is by attending classes on campus, either at a traditional community college or through a school such as Strayer or ECPI (see Resources). Among schools offering on-campus programs are Eastern Iowa Community College, Chattahoochee Technical College and Bishop State Community College in Alabama; all three offer accredited programs (see Resources).
The second option is an online-only program. Accredited online programs include the ones offered by Greenville Technical College, Ivy Tech Community College (Columbus campus, although several of the school's satellite sites also offer accredited programs) and Northampton Community College in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania (see Resources).
Students who do not want to earn an associate's degree in accounting administration may choose to enroll in a certificate program instead. This option is less intensive than the degree program and offers a more narrow view of the accounting and business fields. The Accounting Degree Guide website says students are less likely to find an accredited certificate program, as the three major accrediting agencies acknowledge only degree-earning programs (although the school offering the certificate may be accredited).
A certificate program may be taken either online or on campus. Among the schools offering this certification are Pinellas Technical Education Centers, Pasadena City College and Orange Coast College (see Resources).
Though the exact classes required for an associate's degree in accounting administration vary based on the school and program, the website Degree Directory lists many of the basic courses. They include basic accounting, business education and project management. The goal of these courses is to give students the math and critical thinking skills they'll need in the workplace, as well as knowledge of business and law.
Make sure you obtain your accounting administration associate's degree from an accredited school and program. The Accounting Degree Guide website lists three major accrediting agencies: the Association for Advancing Collegiate Schools of Business, the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs and the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education. Selecting a school or program that is not accredited by one of these agencies may leave you with a degree that is not acknowledged by potential employers or is not valid for admission into a bachelor's degree program.
Prospective students should consider several factors before selecting an accounting administration program. Zeshawn Beg, a Ph.D. student at Harvard Business School, urges potential students to examine the program's affiliation with professional organizations, the role alumni play on campus and the school's job placement of graduates. These factors will not only enhance your experience while in school, but can help you further your career after graduation.