How to Find and Enroll in an Accredited Intermediate Accounting Course Online

Are you seeking to advance your financial skills by taking an intermediate accounting course online? This type of course focuses on financial accounting, a crucial field for those aspiring to become bookkeepers, accountants, or treasurers. Whether you’re running a business or aiming for a career in finance, understanding the principles of accounting is essential.

Online intermediate accounting courses are in high demand, but many students are unaware of how and where to find accredited programs. This article will guide you through finding and enrolling in online intermediate accounting courses, saving you time and money by eliminating the need for on-campus learning.

What is Accounting?

Accounting is the backbone of business operations, providing key financial information. It is divided into two primary categories:

• Management Accounting: Primarily used internally by a company’s management and employees for operational improvement.
• Financial Accounting: Intended for external stakeholders, such as investors, creditors, and regulatory bodies, to assess a company’s financial health.

What is Intermediate Accounting?

Intermediate accounting specifically focuses on financial accounting principles. Typically, this course is taught over two semesters but can be completed online at your own pace. The scope of intermediate accounting includes understanding the various policies, concepts, and applications necessary to manage different types of businesses.

Basic Principles of Accounting

The six foundational principles of accounting are crucial to understanding intermediate accounting:

1. Revenue Principle: Recognizing revenue when it’s earned, not when cash is received.
2. Expense Principle: Recording expenses when they are incurred, not when paid.
3. Matching Principle: Matching revenues to the expenses incurred to generate them.
4. Cost Principle: Recording assets based on their historical cost.
5. Objectivity Principle: Ensuring financial statements are based on verifiable evidence.
6. Full Disclosure Principle: Reporting all information that could affect users’ understanding of financial statements.

Differences Between Financial and Intermediate Accounting

While both financial and intermediate accounting deal with finance, the key distinction lies in depth and focus. Intermediate accounting explores the nuances of financial statements, including tax depreciation and financial accounting differences.

How to Study Online Intermediate Accounting Courses

To successfully study intermediate accounting online, follow these steps:

1. Ensure a Quiet Study Environment: You’ll need reliable internet access and a computer.
2. Accredited Institutions: Choose an accredited online institution offering intermediate accounting courses.
3. Set a Schedule: Allocate specific times daily for study and participation in classes.
4. Create a Study Plan: Develop a timetable or roaster that keeps you organized and on track.

Skills You Will Gain from an Intermediate Accounting Course

An online intermediate accounting course equips you with valuable skills, such as:

• Accounting Skills: Understanding journal entries, balance sheets, and income statements.
• Analytical Skills: Analyzing a company’s financial health.
• Technical Skills: Gaining insights into industry-specific accounting practices.

Top Schools Offering Online Intermediate Accounting Courses

Here are some of the best platforms and universities offering intermediate accounting courses online:

1. Introduction to Financial Accounting – University of Pennsylvania (Coursera)

This course offers a thorough understanding of financial statements like income, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. It also covers debit-credit bookkeeping. With a weekly commitment of 5 to 6 hours over 4 weeks, this program is rated 4.7 out of 5.

2. Accounting Classes, Degrees & Certificates – Coursera

Available in multiple languages, Coursera offers courses for those starting a career in accounting. It includes tests and assignments to track learning progress. This course has financial aid options and a 4.5 out of 5 rating.

3. Accounting Courses – Udemy

Udemy offers a range of topics in intermediate accounting, including bookkeeping, SAP FICO, and financial modeling. Courses here help you learn the core principles of accounting. The rating is 4.5 out of 5, and duration varies by course.

4. Accounting Courses – edX

edX provides a variety of topics, from management to personal finance, and prepares students for an MBA. Courses are rated 4.5 out of 5, and duration varies.

5. Financial Accounting Fundamentals – Harvard Business School

Ideal for mid-level professionals, this program covers cash flow, income statements, and balance sheets. It includes courses like Business Analytics and Economics for Managers. The cost is $2,250, and the program runs for 8 weeks with a 4.4 out of 5 rating.

6. Finance and Accounting Courses & Training – LinkedIn Learning

LinkedIn Learning offers courses on personal and business finance, including software like QuickBooks and Excel. The courses are free for one month and rated 4.5 out of 5.

7. Accounting and Bookkeeping Course – Accounting Coach

This course, taught by Harold Averkamp, covers critical topics like working capital, bookkeeping, and liquidity. It includes tests to assess progress and offers materials in PDF format for easy study. Rated 4.5 out of 5.

Steps to Enroll in an Online Intermediate Accounting Course

To enroll in an intermediate accounting course online, you’ll need:

1. A computer and a stable internet connection.
2. To research and choose an accredited school offering the desired course.
3. Submit your application and follow the school’s enrollment process.

Conclusion

Enrolling in an online intermediate accounting course will enhance your understanding of financial statements and prepare you for roles in accounting, analysis, or treasury. Upon completion, you’ll be equipped to:

• Accountant: Manage financial records for CPA firms or corporations.
• Analyst: Evaluate financial services with in-depth knowledge of financial statements.
• Treasury: Join a company’s treasury department to handle cash flow management.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I get a certificate upon completion? Yes, after finishing all the lessons, quizzes, and final tests, you will receive a certificate. Most schools require a passing score of 80% or higher.
• Can I retake tests if needed? Yes, tests can be retaken multiple times until you achieve a passing score.
• Is it possible to earn a degree online in accounting? Yes, thousands of students have earned both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in accounting online from accredited institutions.

Taking an intermediate accounting course online is a flexible, cost-effective way to advance your career or manage your business finances.