Associate of Applied Business
in Accounting

Associate of Applied Business in Accounting

Program Overview

The Accounting Program at Youngstown State University (YSU) offers a robust foundation for students aiming to embark on careers within the diverse fields of accounting. The program not only primes students for immediate employment in various accounting roles but also lays down the academic foundation necessary for pursuing a bachelor’s degree in accounting or related fields at four-year institutions. Graduates from this program emerge as crucial members of management teams, equipped with the ability to analyze financial data to pinpoint organizational strengths and weaknesses, and offer strategic business improvement suggestions.

Program Objectives and Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the YSU Accounting Program, graduates will be proficient in:

  • Synthesizing Financial Information: Preparing comprehensive financial statements that accurately reflect economic events.

  • Ethics in Accounting: Applying professional ethical standards to resolve conflicts and ensure integrity within the accounting practice.

  • Technology Application in Accounting: Demonstrating proficiency in the use of essential personal and professional information technology applications relevant to the accounting field.

  • Written Communication Skills: Developing and presenting well-organized, concise, and grammatically correct written reports tailored for the appropriate financial and accounting audience.

  • Oral Presentations: Effectively delivering oral presentations on accounting or related technical topics to the appropriate audience.

Program Features

The Accounting Program emphasizes:

  • Organization and analysis of accounting data.
  • Recording of transactions with accuracy.
  • Examination and management of inventory.
  • Preparation and management of payrolls.
  • Assembly and interpretation of financial statements.
  • Evaluation of financial information for strategic decision-making.
  • Proficiency in both manual and computerized accounting systems.
  • Competence in the use of spreadsheet and word processing applications vital for the modern accounting profession.

Career Opportunities and Outlook

The demand for skilled accounting professionals is consistently strong across public, private, non-profit, and governmental sectors. Graduates of the YSU Accounting Program find employment as:

  • Accounting Clerks
  • Staff Accountants
  • Bookkeepers
  • Tax Preparers
  • Auditors
  • Cost Accountants

Many of our graduates also pursue further education, obtaining bachelor’s degrees and Professional Accounting Certifications, including the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license.

Bureau of Labor and Statistics Data and Job Outlook

According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the field of accounting and auditing is projected to grow 7 percent from 2020 to 2030, about as fast as the average for all occupations. The continual demand for thorough financial documentation is expected to increase the demand for accounting services. The average annual opening for accountants and auditors over the decade is estimated to be 135,000, driven by the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations or exit the labor force.

By choosing the Accounting Program at Youngstown State University, you are stepping towards a career filled with ample growth opportunities and the potential to significantly impact the financial health and success of various organizations.

Speak to a Faculty Member

Dr. Jeremy Schwartz

Director, Lariccia School of Accounting and Finance

jtschwartz@ysu.edu