Accounting

Careers in Accounting

Bookkeepers, account clerks and audit clerks maintain financial records, examine documents, prepare payroll and process accounts payable and receivable. Tax specialists maintain and prepare tax records.

These workers use spreadsheets and accounting software. They must exercise diligence, math skills and judgement in handling confidential information.

Workers in these fields may be self-employed or work for a variety of large and small organizations, including retail stores, corporations and nonprofit groups. 

Employment Outlook: 2020-2030

• The number of jobs for accountants and auditors is expected to increase by 12%, with more than 169,600 job openings during this 10-year period
• Jobs for budget analysts are expected to increase 10%

These ten-year projections for California employment are calculated by the state Employment Development Department, which collects data about the state's workforce and economic trends.

Accounting Programs at De Anza

De Anza offers certificate and degree programs that include courses in bookkeeping, tax preparation, tax accounting and general accounting – taught by instructors who have backgrounds in public accounting or other industry experience.

These classes can be helpful for anyone who is interested in accounting, business or finance. They also provide excellent preparation for transfer to four-year universities. Students who have already taken introductory accounting courses can take advanced courses, with clearance from the department coordinator, to prepare for the CPA exam. 

Students in our program also have opportunities to meet recruiters and pursue internships with prominent firms.

Accounting

• Accounting - Certificate of AchievementOnline OptionDetails for Certificate of Achievement - Accounting

  In this program Business students gain accounting knowledge needed for an entry-level accounting position.

  Requirements

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• Accounting - Certificate of Achievement-AdvancedDetails for Certificate of Achievement-Advanced - Accounting

  In this program Business students gain the skills needed for a professional job in accounting or related positions such as analyst or staff accountant.

  Requirements

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• Accounting - Associate in ArtsDetails for Associate in Arts - Accounting

  This program prepares Business students for transfer to a four-year institution as Accounting majors. Students gain the skills needed for a professional job in accounting or related field such as analyst or staff accountant.

  Requirements

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Accounting: Noncredit

• Bookkeeping - Certificate of CompletionNEWDetails for Certificate of Completion - Bookkeeping

  This noncredit certificate provides a short-term, skills-based pathway that prepares students for entry-level employment in bookkeeping and accounting support roles. Students gain practical experience in bookkeeping concepts and accounting measurement using Excel, QuickBooks and AI tools in accounting. They learn to complete all phases of the accounting cycle, from recording transactions to preparing key financial statements. It is designed for adult learners, career changers, disproportionately impacted students and small-business entrepreneurs seeking to develop marketable skills, reenter the workforce or manage their own businesses. Emphasizing equity, accessibility and career mobility, the certificate serves as both a stand-alone credential for immediate job readiness and a foundation to pursuing more advanced pathways.

  Requirements

In addition to the programs listed above, you may be able to apply courses in this department toward General Education requirements.

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