Course Description:

This course is designed to help students build a successful accounting career by focusing on essential knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) that align with industry standards. Students will develop both technical and soft skills, including communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, which are critical to thriving in today’s dynamic work environment. The course also covers practical career-building tools such as crafting effective resumes, mastering interview techniques, and creating personalized career plans. Whether preparing for internships or full-time positions, students will leave with a strategic roadmap for advancing their accounting careers.

REQUIRED TEXTBOOK AND MATERIALS:

Required: Career Development for Tomorrow’s Accounting Professionals. Kathy Tuberville. (2020) ISBN: 79816449464316.

There are two options available for the textbook; please keep in mind we use the CengageNow
access for all of the course assignments. We highly recommend either of the two methods listed, we
cannot guarantee if you purchase the textbook from an online retailer that it will contain the
necessary materials for the class. If you have any questions or concerns, please send me an email.
• “Opt In” Option: All Inclusive Digital Access: You have already purchased the textbook and
access code via registration, you do not need to purchase anything else. However, you have the
option to purchase a physical copy of the textbook from the ACC bookstore for an additional cost.
OR
• “Opt Out” Option: Purchase the textbook from the bookstore: If you prefer a hard copy of a text,
this custom, shrink wrapped, loose-leaf book can only be purchased through the local ACC
bookstores. The shrink-wrapped package includes the text, the access code for CengageNow which is
the required interactive online homework system and includes access to the eBook of the text. This
information is available via the Textbook Materials link in Blackboard Ultra.

Module 1:

Textbook:

Ch. 1: So you selected accounting as a major?

Ch. 2: Know yourself!

Ch. 3: Career Communications for a Winning Image

NACE Career Competencies:

1. Career and Self Development

2. Communication

3. Critical Thinking

AI Project: Prompts

Module 2:

Textbook:

Ch. 4: Interviewing skills to ace the interview

Ch. 5: Networking for success

Ch. 6: The importance of negotiation skills in your career

NACE Career Competencies:

3. Intercultural Fluency

4. Leadership

5. Professionalism

AI Project: Using AI to prepare for the interview

Module 3: 

Textbook: 

Ch. 7: Finding your career path

Ch. 8: You're ready, now what?

Ch. 9: Next steps in your career - planning ahead

NACE Career Competencies

7. Teamwork

8. Digital Technology

AI Project: The future of AI in Accounting

Module 4:

Career Development Activities: Forage.com

Course Learning Objectives:

The course objectives are the overall mastery concepts of the course; here are the following 7 core concepts:

1. Identify and apply key KSAs (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities) required for success in various accounting roles and understand how to continuously develop these competencies.

2. Demonstrate proficiency in soft skills such as effective communication, collaboration, and problem-solving, with a focus on their relevance in accounting settings.

3. Develop a professional resume and cover letter tailored to accounting roles, incorporating best practices for showcasing relevant experiences and qualifications.

4. Master interview techniques specific to accounting careers, including behavioral interviews, technical questions, and effective self-presentation.

5. Create a personalized career plan that outlines short-term and long-term goals, leveraging industry insights and individual strengths to map out a path for career advancement.

6. Explain the role of networking in the accounting profession and learn strategies for building meaningful professional connections.

7. Utilize job search tools and resources to explore internships, job openings, and professional development opportunities within the accounting field."

8. Use AI software to create effective prompts that can assist with tasks like job searching and interview prep.

9. Discuss the future prospects of AI use in Accounting.