The goal of this certificate is to broaden your knowledge of the vocabulary, processes, and practices of this important functional area of business. It is one of the few certificates in The W. A. Franke College of Business open to non-business majors (after they have completed appropriate prerequisites).
Many consider accounting to be the backbone of business-providing the structure for tracking an organizations' finances. Others compare it to the eyes and ears of a business-carefully watching what is happening, and, like a stethoscope, listening for weaknesses and obstructions to profit.
The accounting certificate offers a strong introduction to current practices and technology to individuals who are entering the accounting profession, but can also be useful for mid-level professionals who need to stay ahead of the competition, move their careers forward, or build their earning potential.
A certificate focuses on practical training and workforce skill development in a particular field.
To receive an undergraduate certificate of 12 or more units at Northern Arizona University, you must complete a planned group of courses from one or more subject matter areas with a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0. Approximately 75 percent of the credits must be earned through coursework at NAU (specific unit requirements may be found in the Details Tab).
Federal financial aid may not be available for certain certificates when they are completed as standalone programs (i.e., not pursued at the same time as a degree). Refer to the 'Details' tab for more information.
In addition to University Requirements:
Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.
| Minimum Units for Completion | 21 |
| Major GPA | 2.0 |
| Highest Mathematics Required | MAT 114 |
Purpose Statement
The accounting certificate is designed to supplement business and nonbusiness majors with intermediate proficiency in accounting as an analytical tool for understanding business. The coursework offers a strong coverage of current practices and technology to develop practical skills valued in business, government and non-profit organizations.
Student Learning Outcomes
Students will be able to:
Take the following 21 units with a minimum GPA of 2.0:
This certificate may only be pursued and completed concurrently with a degree program. This certificate is not available as a stand-alone certificate.
Students enrolled in this certificate may not enroll in or pursue the following:
The FCB does not accept upper-division transfer credits from programs not accredited by the AACSB (such as the University of Phoenix or the Bachelor of Business Administration program at NAU).
You must complete 50 percent, or 9 units, of certificate coursework that are not used in your major, minor, or other certificates, and you must complete at least 60 percent of certificate coursework at Northern Arizona University.
Some courses may have prerequisites. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.