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Associate in Applied Science - Accounting Assistant

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As a paraprofessional in the accounting field, the accounting assistant analyzes and interprets the essential information about the operations of a business and contributes vitally to important policies and decisions.

An accounting assistant should have an above-average aptitude for working with numbers and the ability to concentrate and communicate. Accounting affords a continuing challenge to creative, alert minds.

In addition to earning and AAS at the completion of the six-quarter program, students will earn an Accounting Clerk Certificate after completing the first three-quarters of the AAS degree, and an Accounting Assistant AAS after completing the full six quarters of the program. All students graduating from this program must have a minimum grade of 2.0 in each of the accounting, business, economics, and management courses. Students must also have a 2.0 cumulative minimum grade point average in all required courses in this program.

This degree is non-transferable to a four-year university. Students working toward the associate in arts degree for transfer to a four-year institution should consult individually with an advisor or counselor for planning the Business DTA or AA degree program. For information on Business DTA and AA degree requirements, refer to the Degree and Certificate Requirements section of the CCS catalog. More information on specific transfer programs can be found in the Academic Programs section of the CCS catalog.

Learning Outcomes

  1. Analyze financial data and prepare statistical comparisons for use in the budgeting process.
  2. Assist in determination of inventory order quantities, cash requirements, capital investment decisions, and break-even analysis.
  3. Use various types of office machines.
  4. Post and/or supervise the posting of accounts receivable and payable.
  5. Help maintain data processing applications of routine accounting systems.
  6. Have a basic comprehension of business operations, a knowledge of business vocabulary, and an understanding of economic systems.
  7. Prepare monthly, quarterly or annual business and payroll tax reports.
  8. Process payroll related transactions.

Career Opportunities

The potential for advancement for accountants is limited only by training, ability, and effort. Many accountants move into positions in management because they understand the operations of all phases of business. Salary prospects for truly competent accountants are excellent.
POTENTIAL POSITIONS INCLUDE: accountant, accounting or inventory clerk, bookkeeper, cost accountant, junior accountant, junior auditor, junior federal assistant, office manager, payroll clerk or supervisor, paraprofessional.

Typical Student Schedule for Summer 2025


0 credits are required for the Associate in Applied Science

Disclaimer: The college cannot guarantee courses will be offered in the quarters indicated. During the period this guide is in circulation, there may be curriculum revisions and program changes. Students are responsible for consulting the appropriate academic unit or adviser for more current and specific information. The information in this guide is subject to change and does not constitute an agreement between the college and the student.

Start

Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer

Website

https://scc.spokane.edu/What-to-Study/Programs/Pathway-Course-Map?plan=Accounting

Locations Offered

Online Learning

SCC - Colville Center

SCC - Inchelium Center

SCC - Newport Center

SCC - Republic Center

Spokane Community College

Financial Aid Eligible

Yes. Read more about Financial Aid.

What to Expect to Pay Details
All dollar figures appearing below reflect the total cost of completing the program described by the Typical Student Schedule located on this web page, which are for the current graduation requirements of this program. Exact totals may vary depending on the catalog requirements you are following, if you have transferred in courses, or if you have been granted substitutions.

Tuition, program fees, and course fees are for the current academic year, as approved by the Community Colleges of Spokane Board of Trustees. Tuition and fees are subject to change by the Washington State Legislature and/or the Community Colleges of Spokane Board of Trustees.

Resident tuition is what Washington residents pay. Non-Resident tuition is what out-of-state students pay. International tuition is what out-of-country students pay. For clarification on residency, see Determining your Residency Status.

Book costs are based on what students actually paid last year in this program.

Program fees are one-time costs required for the program that are not included in course fees or in tuition. These fees include things like tools, equipment, and uniforms. Only a few programs have program fees.

Course fees cover the cost of special equipment and materials needed to complete coursework. These fees are not included in tuition. Not all courses have fees.

  • Tuition
  • Resident
    $
    9,544
  • Non-Resident
    $
    11,488
  • International
    $
    21,823
  • Books
    $
    1,687
  • Program Fees
    $
    300
  • Course Fees
    $
    11