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Accounting

female accountant in blue sweater using calculator

Gain a thorough understanding of accounting standards and principles to prepare for the new core Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Examination. 

Courses
8 Required
0 Elective
Methods
Online
F-1 Visa Eligible

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This program is perfect for...

Financial professionals seeking to expand their career prospects into public or private accounting
Individuals considering transitioning into accounting careers
Professionals pursuing the CPA, CMA®, and CIA® certifications, as well as those considering other accounting industry credentials
Recent college graduates interested in accounting careers or working toward CPA licensing/pre-MBA coursework requirements

What you can learn.

Get a thorough understanding of accounting standards and principles
Complete coursework relevant to the core CPA Examination, and CMA®, CIA® and CFA® certifications
Develop skills in financial accounting, federal income taxation and internal auditing
Discuss how to make proper ethical decisions as an accountant

Pursue a career in accounting.

Recognized by employers throughout Los Angeles and beyond, the UCLA Extension Accounting Certificate program was designed to provide a thorough understanding of accounting standards and principles, and prepare students to sit for the core CPA Examination. The program covers relevant coursework for those considering pursuing CMA®, CIA®, and CFA® certifications.

UCLA Extension works closely with industry experts, advisory boards, and professional associations to assure accounting courses are relevant to current trends and practices. Our comprehensive accounting curriculum is designed for real-world applicability, providing practical skills to help meet the increasing demands of the accounting industry.

For details on the recent changes to the CPA Exam and associated adjustments to UCLA Extension Accounting programs and courses, visit our CPA Exam Preparation page.

Format: Online and In-Person

Accounting fundamentals

This certificate is approved for international students to study full time in the U.S. on an F-1 visa.

International students must meet English language proficiency requirements for admission into the program.

While most certificate programs begin each quarter, some have limited intakes for students studying on F-1 visa. Find this program on the Browse Certificate Programs page to confirm entry quarters before applying.

Learn more:

What our graduates say.

Get Started

Step 1: Enroll in a Course
Courses in this program are open enrollment and paid for individually. You may take courses without committing to the program.
Step 2: Become a Candidate
Establish candidacy in the certificate program to receive tailored information, lock in course requirements, and gain access to exclusive student benefits. Registration Fee: $200
Important Note for International Students: Candidacy fees are included in your program fees and do not need to be paid separately.

Cost and Fees

All courses in this program are paid for individually, unless otherwise noted. An application form is required to establish candidacy in this program. From the 'Apply Now' button, complete the online application and pay the application fee if applicable.
Application and Candidacy Fee
$200
Estimated Textbooks and Materials
$400
Estimated Program Tuition
$7240

International Student Fees format icon

Payment Options

Prerequisites

The following courses are recommended for students without previous training in accounting.

Principles of Financial Accounting
MGMT X 1A

Principles of Financial Accounting II
MGMT X 1B

Cost Accounting and Analysis
MGMT X 422

- or - 

Accounting Fundamentals Certificate

Required Courses

Customize your experience
MGMT X 120C

Intermediate Accounting Theory and Practice - C

This is the third course in the 3-course Intermediate Accounting sequence and covers such complex accounting issues as accounting for investments, revenue recognition, pension plans, leases, and accounting for income taxes.
MGMT X 423.2

Internal Auditing

This course introduces students to the internal audit profession and process. It is designed for CPAs, CIAs, CMAs; controllers, auditors; financial managers; corporate executives; federal and state auditors.

Ethics Requirement

Optional Internship Course

An internship in accounting can provide you with practical experience in a variety of accounting job functions. Certificate students must complete a minimum of 5 courses before enrolling in the internship.

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The Accounting and Taxation Scholarship Fund was established in partnership with Baker Tilly US LLP in 2021 to provide financial assistance and greater access to the education necessary for students pursuing careers in accounting or taxation.

The scholarship provides funding to cover the cost of completing the Accounting Certificate or Taxation Certificate programs offered by UCLA Extension (up to $5,000) for an individual who has a passion for continuing education and professional development in accounting or taxation.

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The Vets Count Scholarship was created for active duty U.S. military personnel and U.S. veterans, and their immediate families (spouses or children) who are interested in pursuing financial programs to assist them in achieving their educational and career goals.

The scholarship will pay the registration fees for any two courses in the Financial Management Programs area (see application for more details).

Download Application

For students interested in preparing for and taking the CPA Exam, our coursework can help you. Beginning in January 2024, the CPA Exam underwent a change. For details on the changes and associated adjustments to UCLA Extension Accounting programs and courses, visit our CPA Exam Preparation page.

Learn More

Corporate Training Discounts 
Eligible for employers who register 3 or more of their employees in a course.

Discount for CalCPA Members
CalCPA members can receive 15% off eligible courses.

Contact us for more information.

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