Business & Information Technology Division

Business: Accounting A.A.S.

Janet Evelyn-Dorsey
Associate Dean of Academic Affairs
(315) 866-0300 or toll free 1-888-GO-4-HCCC, ext. 8240

Alan Cronauer
(315) 866-0300 or toll free 1-888-GO-4-HCCC, ext. 8363

Leanne Jardine
(315) 866-0300 or toll free 1-888-GO-4-HCCC, ext. 8743

Henry Testa
(315) 866-0300 or toll free 1-888-GO-4-HCCC, ext. 8249

Program Summary

The A.A.S. degree in Accounting focuses on preparing students for entry-level positions in the accounting field. This curriculum includes the coursework necessary for an entry-level accounting position upon completion of the associate degree.

For students who are unsure whether they will transfer to a four-year institution or enter the workforce with an associate degree, the A.A.S. degree program is the better choice. Although not a fully transferable program, many of the courses completed in the program will meet transfer requirements.

Program of Study at Herkimer

Click Accounting A.A.S. program for the current program of study page.

Skill Requirements

Successful accountants should have strong critical thinking, analytical, problem solving, decision making, and communication skills. Additionally, the ability to work both independently and as a member of a team is necessary. "Number crunching" and computer literacy skills are essential. Personal attributes usually include being goal-oriented, conscientious, ethical, reliable, and self-directed.

Although most entry-level accounting positions require an associate degree, the majority of higher-level, higher paying jobs in the accounting field require a bachelor's degree. The more advanced positions require a master's degree. Additionally, Certified Public Accountants, Certified Management Accountants, Certified Financial Managers, and Certified Internal Auditors must train for and pass state licensing exams, meet experience requirements, and satisfy continuing education requirements in order to practice professionally.

Nature of the Work

Accountants collect, analyze, report, and interpret financial information and records. In addition, they design and maintain accounting systems, record business transactions, prepare financial statements, and conduct audits. Accountants can also specialize in other areas of the financial field, such as management consulting, banking, financial planning, and taxation.

Almost all major fields and industries require the services of accountants. Accountants find work at public and private accounting firms, corporations, small businesses, financial institutions, government, and other municipal agencies. Many become entrepreneurs owning and operating their own accounting firms while others remain self-employed as one-person operations or consultants. Sometimes, accountants go on to become educators, usually in higher education.

Generally, job satisfaction levels are high and work conditions are comfortable.

Job Outlook

A wide variety of employment opportunities currently exist in this ever-expanding field.  The demand for accountants in the future will likely increase based on the current economic environment.  Pay in this field varies widely with salaries for accountants ranging from $18,000 up to $150,000 or more.  Salaries are based on education, experience, type of position, industry, and location.