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Accounting: Building a Purposeful Career

Keiser University offers an Associate of Arts degree in Accounting designed for students seeking entry-level careers as accounting clerks, assistants, and bookkeepers. Our program prepares you with the foundational accounting skills needed to launch your accounting career across diverse business environments.

Develop Core Accounting Skills

Build essential skills in financial accounting, taxation, and business software applications that employers value.

Learn from a Faculty of Industry Experts

Study under faculty who bring real-world expertise in accounting practices, financial management, and business operations.

Study Your Way: On-Campus or Online

Choose from flexible online or on-campus learning formats that fit your schedule and learning preferences.

Prepare for Entry-Level Accounting Positions

Gain the accounting principles and practical skills needed to step into roles like accounting assistant, accounts payable clerk, or accounts receivable clerk.

At a Glance

60

Credit Hours

20+

Courses

18-24

Months*

4

Week Terms

  • Up to 12 credits of transfer credit*
  • Career opportunities such as accounting clerks, bookkeepers, and financial assistants
  • Available On-Campus and Online
  • Financial aid for those who qualify**

* Time to degree completion and the number of transfer credits are estimates, not intended as a guarantee, and can vary based on many case-by-case factors.
** Speak with a dedicated financial aid counselor to explore all your financial aid and funding options.

Associate in Accounting Program Overview

Keiser University’s Associate of Arts degree in Accounting provides students with entry-level accounting skills needed in today’s professional environment. The accounting associate degree focuses on essential practitioner abilities, from preparing financial reports to analyzing financial records and maintaining accounting records. Students learn to prepare financial statements, understand the accounting cycle, and use accounting software applications that businesses rely on daily.
 
The program covers financial accounting fundamentals, including how to track financial transactions, reconcile accounts, and manage financial documents. Students also study federal taxation basics, business strategies, and professional communication skills vital for accounting assistant duties. Coursework addresses ethical practices, regulatory standards, and the professional skills needed to work with financial data accurately and responsibly.
 
Beyond technical accounting education, students develop critical thinking abilities for analyzing financial records and understanding economic trends that impact business decisions. The curriculum prepares students to handle payroll records, process payments, identify payroll discrepancies, and track outstanding debts. These practical skills align with what employers seek when hiring for entry-level positions in accounting departments.

Program Mission

The mission of the Keiser University Associate of Arts in Accounting degree program centers on preparing students for entry-level careers as accounting clerks, assistants, and bookkeepers.

Program Goals

The accounting degree program aims to introduce accounting concepts and skills needed for entry-level accounting positions. Students learn to identify fundamental accounting and tax concepts, prepare fundamental financial statements and tax documents, use common business and accounting software applications at an introductory level, apply professional communication skills in document preparation and presentations, and identify components of regulatory and ethical practices.

Program Highlights

The accounting program at Keiser University stands out for its practical approach to accounting education. Students work with industry relevant accounting software, learn from faculty with industry experience, and gain hands-on practice preparing financial statements and managing financial information. The small class sizes mean more individual attention and support throughout the learning process.

Prerequisites

None. Students can begin the Associate of Arts in Accounting degree program immediately upon enrollment.

Estimated Student Costs

Required and Optional Fees for Programs: Fees are charges set by the university in addition to tuition (and room and board, if applicable). These fees may be required for your program or optional depending on the courses you take, and they support the costs associated with completing an approved program of study. Fees are defined in the university’s catalog or supplement and listed on the university’s billing statement. Fees that are optional will not be paid using GI Bill® benefits and will be the responsibility of the student choosing these additional options. For additional guidance, please contact your Program Director or Admissions Counselor.

Technology Requirement

Due to the use of software in this accounting program, students must have access to a PC with a Windows-based operating system, Internet connection, and ability to install software and access data files. These tools enable hands-on practice with accounting software applications used in professional settings.

Accreditation Statuses

The following accounting programs at Keiser University-Ft. Lauderdale Campus and its off-campus instructional sites hold separate accounting accreditation by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP): Bachelor of Arts in Accounting and Master of Accountancy. The Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting is accredited by ACBSP for business, and the Associate of Arts in Accounting is not within the scope of specialized accreditation from ACBSP.

Program Outline

Available On-Campus and Online
 
The Associate of Arts in Accounting at Keiser University provides a comprehensive foundation in accounting records management, financial accounting, federal taxation, and accounting software proficiency. Students learn accounting principles that prepare them for entry-level jobs in various industries, from small businesses to large accounting firms. The accounting program combines general education with specialized accounting courses to develop well-rounded professionals ready for the demands of today’s accounting career paths.
 
To receive an Associate of Arts degree in Accounting, students must earn 60.0 credit hours. Program requirements are as follows:

Associate Degree in Accounting Courses



Accounting Major Courses ( 24.0 credit hours )
* Accounting Principles I 3.0 credit hours
* Accounting Principles II 3.0 credit hours
* Accounting Information for Business Decisions 3.0 credit hours
* Integrated Accounting 3.0 credit hours
Business Law 3.0 credit hours
Financial Management 3.0 credit hours
Introduction to Marketing 3.0 credit hours
* Principle of Taxation 3.0 credit hours

* Courses must be completed with a grade of “C” or higher.

Lower Division General Education Courses (36.0 credit hours)
Behavioral/Social Science (3.0 credit hours)
American History Pre 1876 3.0 credit hours
American History Since 1876 3.0 credit hours
Political Science 3.0 credit hours
Introduction to Psychology 3.0 credit hours
Sociology 3.0 credit hours
Communications (3.0 credit hours)
Speech Communications 3.0 credit hours
Computers (3.0 credit hours)
Introduction to Computers 3.0 credit hours
Economics (6.0 credit hours)
Microeconomics 3.0 credit hours
Macroeconomics 3.0 credit hours
English (6.0 credit hours)
English Composition I 3.0 credit hours
English Composition II 3.0 credit hours
Humanities/Fine Arts (3.0 credit hours)
American Literature 3.0 credit hours
English Literature 3.0 credit hours
Contemporary World Literature 3.0 credit hours
Mathematics (6.0 credit hours)
College Algebra 3.0 credit hours
College Mathematics 3.0 credit hours
Applications of Mathematics 3.0 credit hours
Statistics (required) 3.0 credit hours
Natural Science (6.0 credit hours)
General Biology 3.0 credit hours
General Biology Laboratory 1.0 credit hour
Advanced Biology 3.0 credit hours
Advanced Biology Laboratory 1.0 credit hour
Environmental Science 3.0 credit hours

Credit hours in parentheses indicate the required number of credit hours in each discipline.

 

If you’re someone who cares about…

Numbers, details, and making sense of a company’s finances while looking for stable career opportunities,

an associate accounting degree might be your path forward.

Accounting students bring strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the discipline needed to maintain accurate financial records. Whether you focus on accounts payable, accounts receivable, or preparing financial statements, this program gives you the tools to build a solid accounting career foundation.

Accounting, AA
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Top 100 Hispanic-Serving Institutions
(2024, Hispanic Outlook on Education Magazine)

U.S. News & World Report

Top 25 university in the country in providing Social Mobility, including being ranked #1 in 2023
(U.S. News & World Report)

The Chronicle of Higher Education

#2 Best 4-year graduation rates, private, nonprofit, nonresidential
(2023, The Chronicle of Higher Ed.)

What Jobs Can You Get with an Associate Degree in Accounting?

Associate degree holders in accounting find opportunities across industries. From maintaining financial records for local government agencies to processing incoming payments for private companies, the career path options continue growing. According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, accounting roles remain essential to business operations nationwide. While we cannot guarantee actual job growth or specific outcomes, our accounting education prepares graduates for various entry-level positions.

Career Pathways in Accounting

  • Accounting Clerk positions across industries
  • Accounts Payable Clerk roles
  • Accounts Receivable Clerk
  • Accounting Assistant positions
  • Bookkeeping roles
  • Billing Specialist
  • Payroll Assistants
  • Auditing Clerks for financial operations
  • Entry-level positions in business administration
Accounting, AA

Gain Job-Ready Skills for Your Accounting Career:

  • Professional communication techniques for business environments
  • Financial statement preparation and analysis
  • Accounting software proficiency
  • Financial records management and organization
  • Data entry accuracy and attention to detail
  • Understanding of accounting principles and tax laws
  • Accounts payable and accounts receivable processing
  • Payroll records maintenance
  • Basic understanding of forensic accounting concepts
  • Business ethics and regulatory compliance awareness

Keiser University offers student-focused learning experience with one class at a time and flexible scheduling options to fit a variety of lifestyles. Students can attend classes on campus, online, or in a hybrid format, with convenient evening hours available. Our small class sizes allow for individualized attention from a faculty of industry professionals. Keiser helps learners achieve their personal and professional goals at all levels.

As an accredited university, Keiser is committed to academic quality and student success. Financial Services support is available, including grants, scholarships, and financial aid for students who qualify—making now the perfect time to take the next step toward your future.

See What Sets Keiser Apart

In this video, Mary Lou Gamino, Keiser University Accounting degree graduate, reflects on her journey with both determination and passion for the accounting field. After earning her associate degree and completing her accounting bachelor’s, she continued advancing by pursuing a master’s in finance while working full-time as an accountant with Miami-Dade County. She credits the one-course-at-a-time format for allowing her to balance work, studies, and her personal life, making it easier to stay focused and succeed academically. As one of the first in her family to earn a bachelor’s degree, Mary Lou highlights the supportive learning environment and dedicated professors at Keiser University, noting how they helped shape her growth both as a student and as a professional.

Students Testimonials

At Keiser University we are here to help you succeed by providing the professional and academic foundation to meet your educational goals and objectives.

Tom Buchanan
Keiser University Nursing Student

Tom Buchanan, a military veteran and nursing student, says Keiser helped him transition into a meaningful healthcare career where he could continue serving his community. He appreciates the strong support available to veterans, including a dedicated VA adviser who is responsive, helpful, and committed to ensuring students fully use the benefits they earned through service.

Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay
Cinematic Arts program graduate

Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay, a Cinematic Arts program graduate, has shared her positive experience. She expressed gratitude to her professors, Samantha Kountz and Jean Jacques, for their encouragement and support during her studies. Her story highlights a passion for film production and acknowledges the program’s contribution to her success.

Kadeshia Rose
Keiser University Software Engineering Student

The environment is friendly. The instructors really actually care about how you are going to get your degree. Keiser was a great fit.

Kennedy Foster
Sports Management Graduate

Keiser University has always supported me in every aspect of my life. Athletically, they have provided top-notch coaches, athletic trainers, and strength coaches who truly helped mold and build me into the player that I am today. Academically, my professors brought out the best in me and constantly made me think critically in real-world situations, and professionally, my professors truly prepared me for my current job. Every task I am given, I can think back to my time at KU and think of an assignment or discussion that I had.

Antigonie Sanabria
Sports Management student

I picked Keiser because, first of all, it’s a school sports management, so I knew that there would be a higher focus of that here, and I knew I could get the best education that I wanted to have if I attended.

Lee Tamburro
Crime Scene Technology student

Being able to solve problems and try to figure out what exactly happened and try to help whoever is the victim is amazing. In a smaller classroom setting you have more time with your teacher. A lot of times you’re just a name on a paper in a bigger class but in Keiser’s smaller classes format, it’s a little more personable, and one class at a time is very helpful.

Amya Black
Culinary Arts, AS degree student

I chose Keiser because of a good friend of mine. She graduated last year and hearing all the good things about the program really made a difference. And this is possibly the best school experience I’ve had. Your teachers know your name. They know your personality. They know what to expect of you. Honestly, they push you to be the best version of yourself.

Marcus Walton
Keiser University Cybersecurity student

Keiser University is one big giant family and I feel that I’ve I learned a lot more here than I would on a traditional campus. This university has changed my life; I’m more assertive, I am completing tasks more efficiently, and I’ve learned a whole lot about it and cyber security.

Haley Roberge
BS in Forensic Investigations graduate

What I love about Keiser is the fact that there’s intimate class sizes, teachers that actually care about what you’re going to school for and they have real life experience; they’re going to be there for you throughout your journey; it’s not just you see that teacher one time and you’re done.

Will Doyle
Sports Medicine & Fitness Technology Graduate

I heard about Keiser University through a battle buddy that I was overseas with in the military. For me school was tough; the more one-on-one attention at Keiser helped me a lot and the teachers that seemed to reach out to you and care. I think that little push right there kept me dedicated. I became a gym owner because I got the skills I needed at Keiser.

Alex Avila
Sports Medicine & Fitness Technology Student

Hands On, Practical Instruction. We have incredible instructors who are very knowledgeable in this field.

Jacvelyne Michel
Keiser University Nursing Student

I chose to study at Keiser University because they offer the accelerated nursing program which I could get my BS in in 16 months. They push us to do our best and they’re very fixated on us passing all of our classes and understanding the concepts. And they really prepare us well for the NCLEX exam.

Ryan G
Culinary Arts Graduates

“I know that when I go for a job interview and I have Keiser University on my resume that I am going to get the job.”

Jillian Bellis
Keiser University Nursing Student

Jillian Bellis, a nursing student, says Keiser University gave her the opportunity to return to school and pursue her lifelong passion for nursing. She highlights key benefits of Keiser, including flexible pathways for adult learners and career changers, supportive programs designed for students at different life stages, and the chance to pursue meaningful, career-focused education later in life.

Solange Mondesir
Keiser University College of Nursing Student

Seeing Keiser nurses out in the field – Keiser pushes out good nurses. So, I know I’m going to be prepared once I step out of the program.

Kadeshia Rose
Keiser University Software Engineering Student

The environment is friendly. The instructors really actually care about how you are going to get your degree.  Keiser was a great fit.

Kiefer Suau
Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering graduate

Keiser University provided me with the foundation to turn ambition into action, equipping me with the discipline, purpose, and support necessary to make a lasting impact. The dedicated faculty and my incredible colleagues continually challenged, inspired, and encouraged me, shaping both my personal and professional growth. With my Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, I’ve been able to pursue meaningful contributions in public service and technology, while advancing my career as a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst for Behavioral Pedestal LLC and Spring Health ABA.

Brian Mardy, RN
Associates of Science Degree in Nursing

I was an active reservist and wanted to enter nursing. Keiser University provided me with new opportunities to do much more in life.

Gaelen Przybylowicz
Keiser University B.S. in Law Enforcement Operations – Forensics Concentration Graduate

I learned a lot about my subject field while attending Keiser. All my teachers continually promoted success and successful thinking, and my peers helped me to a higher standard than others because they knew I could achieve more.

Christy Marek
Keiser University B.S. in Law Enforcement Operations Graduate

KU taught me how to thoroughly do an investigation, read a police report, and understand crime scenes and photos of crime scenes along with any other evidentiary items. I really loved the classes in our program as well as being able to focus on one class a month. It allowed me to learn more.

Brandon Alexander Presley
Legal Studies Student

“My experience at Keiser has been incredible, especially because of the small class sizes—they’re really catered to us and make learning more personal and engaging. As a veteran, I was worried about adjusting back to a structured routine, but the campus made that transition much easier.   Overall, this campus has truly become like a family to me.”

Sarah S.
Keiser University Medical Assisting Graduate

I cannot thank Keiser University enough for the experience and the learning opportunities I have had here. I never thought that at 20 years old, I would be halfway through my bachelor’s degree and working full-time as a medical assistant.

Quondra B.
Keiser University Medical Assisting Graduate

“I have had the experience of dealing with classes that accommodated my schedule of being a full-time employee as well as a full-time mother of three. The hands-on experience and the knowledge received was outstanding. I was elated by the amount of information I received in such a short period of time.”

Danna Murphy
Master of Science in Nursing Graduate

“I really enjoyed the small class sizes and having an advisor at the campus who was able to guide me when I needed advice. I could take the program online, which helped tremendously as I was staying home with my children. Being able to do my schoolwork on my own timetable helped me to be accessible for my children and my husband.”

Arisnelvys Gonzalez, JD
Paralegal Studies Graduate

“Keiser University provided me with everything I needed for my future career as a licensed Florida Bar Attorney. While at KU I retained an Associates Degree in the Paralegal Studies Program. The Program helped me develop not only the essential skills a paralegal is required to hold but also long-term practical and professional skills.”

Justin Pugh
Full Stack Engineer

“The instructors at Keiser University impacted my life. They believed in my ability to become a great graphic designer, regardless of how I felt about my skills. KU helped to prepare me for the real world and got me to where I am today.”

John F. Phelan
Fire Chief – Mashpee, MA

“When I first enrolled, I was new to the online educational environment and nervous as to how the experience would go. Keiser University has a knack for selecting educators who are perfect for this method of instruction, which allowed me and my fellow classmates to get up to speed quickly.”

Wayne Webb
Criminal Justice Graduate

“KU prepared me for Pat Thomas Law Enforcement Academy and the Florida State Correctional program. I have finally reached my goal of becoming a full-time deputy, with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.”

Emily Emilov
Forensic Investigations Graduate

“At Keiser University we’re here to help you succeed by providing the professional and academic foundation to meet your educational goals and objectives.”

Ayden Przybylowicz
Associate of Science in Culinary Arts Graduate

“Because of the experiences I had at Keiser, along with the contacts I made, I made great progress throughout my career already. I thoroughly enjoyed the quality of my education at KU.”

Jennifer Kotzur
Curriculum and Instruction, PhD

“The C & I program at Keiser University is one of the best PhD programs, offering student-center learning and student-first learning. KU provided the rigor and growth I needed to be prepared for my future endeavors.”

Marie Boone
Family Nurse Practitioner, MSN

“I chose Keiser University because I was looking for a local University that was flexible and suited my needs as a parent and full-time RN. The weekly live interactions with the professors were a definite plus. The tuition was reasonable and less than other Universities. Keiser University’s motto, “purity, truth, wisdom” was honored by the commitment of the nursing faculty to the students.”

Javier Araque
Keiser University’s College of Nursing

“My name is Javier Araki, and I’m in the nursing program at Keiser University. What stands out most to me is their students-first approach. Everything is centered on preparing us for the real-world demands of the field. The faculty and staff genuinely support you and help in every way they can. Because of that environment, I truly feel empowered and confident about my future in nursing.”

Anthony Alber
KU Sport Management and Operations, MS Graduate

“I am forever grateful to have been a part of the Keiser Sports Management program! Not only did I gain professional momentum to kickstart my career, I received help from professors that truly care about their students and made great friends along the way.”

Osmara Cailam
Master of Science in Nursing Graduate

“Choosing Keiser was instrumental because they offered small class sizes and the faculty provided one-on-one time with all of the students. Being in an online program, it is essential to have someone accessible to you and the faculty was always there when we needed them. I was also impressed at the structure, organization and curriculum for the program at Keiser.”

Ryan Bushey
Content and Media Production

“My instructors weren’t interested in just teaching. They were invested in every single student. They were invested in me. I’m proud to say I went to Keiser University, if for no other reason, because of my personal and professional development my instructors brought me.”

Jane Krolewski
Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner Graduate

“The Family Nurse Practitioner Program at Keiser University is an excellent program managed by a group of dynamic and dedicated professional educators. During my time at Keiser University, there was never a moment when I felt alone or lost. The support and guidance of my instructors were instrumental in accomplishing my professional goals and certification.”

Kiefer Suau
Software Engineering Graduate

“The dedicated faculty and my incredible colleagues continually challenged, inspired, and encouraged me, shaping both my personal and professional growth. With my Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, I’ve been able to pursue meaningful contributions in public service and technology.”

Jada Vidal
Culinary Arts Graduate

“Keiser was one of the best choices I made for culinary school but you must put in the time, show up, and listen to your chefs.“

Heather S
Keiser University Criminal Justice Graduate

Once I graduated, I found a job right out of college within my degree. I now proudly work for the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice.

Wayne W.
Keiser University Criminal Justice graduate

When I came to Keiser University, I had no idea what I was capable of doing. I knew if I made good grades and worked hard, it would look good on my resume. It would also show my girls how important an education was. So, I worked hard. KU prepared me for Pat Thomas Law Enforcement Academy and the Florida State Correctional program…I have finally reached my goal of becoming a full-time deputy, with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.

Jason Liska
Keiser Graduate and Lake County Fire Fighter and Paramedic

Liska said he chose the Keiser University Fire Science program because of the professors’ real-life experiences in the field and the convenience of the one-class-at-a-time and one-class-per-month schedule. “You’ve got to find a way to balance things and Keiser was very beneficial in providing me that balance.”

Desiree James
Keiser University Diagnostic Medical Sonography Graduate

I loved that Keiser University focused on one class per month. I feel I gained a lot from this because there were no distractions from other subjects in the same period of time. I found the information for each subject was better retained this way. In addition, my professors were always available for one-on-one help which is nearly unheard of in a large university or state college.

Deanna Confessore
Deanna Confessore – Golf Management graduate – Keiser University

My time at Keiser gave me hands-on experience teaching golf and great mentors to look up to.

Jason Loomis
Executive Director at Great River Golf Club.

“Huge gratitude towards Keiser University, you know, I was a golf enthusiast and wanted to get into the game. And it was a perfect school that opened its doors to me, let me in, and showed me the ropes. And their guidance and education, and not to mention mentorship, even after I graduated, has really propelled me into the professional I am today.”

Samuel Fernandes
Animation and Game Design student – Keiser University

I’m Samuel Fernandes of Keiser University. I’m currently enrolled as a student under the animation and game design bachelors and I enjoy with my whole heart right now. I came to Keiser because it welcomes people and it was very warm and inviting. It allowed me to create the world I want. Here at Keiser, if you want to create world environments, if you want to enlist in characters, the game design program here is perfect.

How to Apply

  1. Submit your online application
  2. Speak with an admissions advisor
  3. Provide transcripts or transfer credits
  4. Enroll and choose your start date

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Keiser University’s accounting programs provide practical education for students ready to enter the accounting field. With flexible online and on-campus options, our programs align with your career goals and schedule. Whether you plan to work as an accounting clerk while continuing your education or want to build long-term expertise in financial management, Keiser provides the accounting education and support needed to help you succeed.

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Accredited University

Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), ensuring your education meets rigorous academic standards.

Flexible Learning Options

Study online or on-campus at Florida locations. Choose one class at a time, on-campus, online, or hybrid. Evening and weekend options remain available for working adults at select campuses, making it easier to balance your accounting education with work and family responsibilities.

Financial Services

Our team guides you through the financial aid process and provides assistance. Grants, scholarships, and financial aid become available for students who qualify, making your associate program in accounting more affordable.

Top Questions About Earning an Accounting Degree

Can I get an accounting degree online at Keiser University?

Yes. Keiser University’s Associate of Arts in Accounting is available online, with the option to study on campus or in a hybrid format if preferred. Students receive the same quality instruction, support, and resources across all delivery methods.

What jobs can I get with an associate degree in accounting?

Graduates of the accounting degree program can pursue careers as accounting clerks, accounts payable clerks, accounts receivable clerks, accounting assistants, bookkeepers, billing specialists, payroll assistants, and other entry-level positions in financial operations. Many work for businesses, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and accounting firms.

Can I transfer credits from another institution?

Yes, Keiser University accepts transfer credits for undergraduate and graduate-level programs. Our admissions team will work with you to review your transcripts and determine your transfer eligibility. Credits transfer based on several factors including accreditation and course equivalency. Learn more about credit transfer requirements and eligibility requirements.

Does this associate degree prepare me for further education in accounting?

Yes. While this associate degree prepares you for entry-level employment, many graduates choose to continue their accounting education to expand their career opportunities. You may advance your accounting education by getting a bachelor’s degree in accounting or related fields to gain advanced knowledge and qualify for higher-level positions. In addition, some graduates work toward credentials like Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Management Accountant, or Certified Internal Auditor certifications. Others gain experience in the field while taking additional coursework.

How can an entry-level accounting job lead to career growth?

Entry-level accounting positions provide valuable experience working with financial statements, financial data, and daily accounting operations. As you gain hands-on experience maintaining financial records and supporting accounting teams, you develop a deeper understanding of how businesses manage their finances.

Some accounting clerks choose to specialize in areas such as payroll processing, while others build broad experience across multiple accounting functions. The skills developed in roles like accounting assistant or payroll clerk can serve as stepping stones to positions with greater responsibility, including supervisory roles or specialized areas such as financial analysis or forensic accounting.

How does an associate degree in accounting differ from a bachelor's degree in accounting?

An associate accounting degree provides foundational knowledge ideal for entry-level roles and typically takes about two years to complete. A bachelor’s degree offers a deeper understanding of accounting concepts, including advanced topics like forensic accounting, management accounting, and complex tax laws. In addition, the bachelor’s degree typically takes four years and opens doors to positions with more responsibility and higher earning potential. Many students start with an associate degree to enter the workforce quickly, then continue toward a bachelor’s degree while working.

Is financial aid available for online students?

Yes. Online students pursuing an online degree can access the same financial aid resources as campus-based students, including grants, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs. Learn more about Keiser University’s Financial Services.

What accounting software will I learn?

Students gain experience with common business and accounting software applications used in professional environments. The program focuses on developing software skills employers seek when hiring accounting clerks and assistants.

Can this degree help me become a Certified Public Accountant?

The associate degree provides a foundation for your accounting education. Becoming a certified public accountant typically requires a bachelor’s degree, 150 credit hours of education, and passing the CPA exam. Many students start with an associate degree, work in accounting positions to gain experience, then continue their education toward CPA credentials. The accounting principles you learn in this program create a solid base for advanced study.

How long does it take to complete the accounting program?

The Associate of Arts in Accounting requires 60 credit hours. Most full-time students complete the program in approximately 18 to 24 months. Time to degree completion is an estimate, not intended as a guarantee, and can vary based on many case-by-case factors.

What types of companies hire accounting clerks and assistants?

Accounting professionals work in virtually every industry. Options include corporations, small businesses, healthcare organizations, educational institutions, manufacturing companies, retail operations, financial services firms, government agencies at local and federal levels, nonprofit organizations, and professional accounting firms. The diversity of opportunities means you can find accounting positions aligned with your interests.

Can I work while completing my accounting degree?

Many students work while pursuing their degree. Keiser’s flexible scheduling options, including evening classes and online coursework, help working adults balance education with employment and family responsibilities. Starting your accounting education while gaining workplace experience can strengthen your resume.

What math skills do I need for an accounting degree?

The program requires completion of mathematics courses including college algebra and statistics. Strong attention to detail and comfort working with numbers proves more valuable than advanced mathematical ability. Most accounting work involves careful data entry, organization, and basic calculations supported by accounting software.

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By clicking the "Submit" button, I authorize Keiser University to make or allow the placement of recurring marketing calls, emails, and texts to me at the phone number that I have provided, including through the use of automated technology or a prerecorded or artificial voice. I understand that I am not required to provide my phone number as a condition of purchasing any property, goods, or services. Privacy Policy