Accounting Certificate Program

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

Yes

Get More Info

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

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.

See Courses

Have questions? Talk to an Academic Advisor

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

Apply Now

Important Note for International Students: Candidacy fees are included in your program fees and do not need to be paid separately.

View Dates & Program Fees for International Students

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

Payment Options

Eligible for VA Benefit
Federal Financial Aid is not available

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

Accounting and Enterprise Business Systems

Receive hands-on experience in a computer lab on how to best utilize enterprise business software, often referred to as ERP Systems or Automated Accounting packages.

View Course

Federal Income Taxation

This course explores individual income taxation issues, including tax determination, exemptions, gross income, general and itemized deductions, and all expenses, gains, and losses.

View Course

Financial Auditing

This course utilizes case studies to examine client’s financial statements, legal liability, internal control, evaluation, sampling techniques, audit reports, and reviews the principles governing certified public accountants.

View Course

Intermediate Accounting Theory and Practice - A

This is the first course in the 3-course Intermediate Accounting sequence and covers the interpretation, use, processing, and presentation of accounting information and the preparation of principal accounting statements.

View Course

Intermediate Accounting Theory and Practice - B

This is the second course in the 3-course Intermediate Accounting sequence and covers long-term assets and intangibles, current and long-term liabilities, and stockholders equity.

View Course

Ethics Requirement

Ethics in Accounting

This course covers the elements necessary to make proper ethical decisions by defining what ethics are and identifying the questions that need to be asked in everyday business practices.

View Course

Optional Internship Course

Internships in Accounting, Internal Audit and Taxation

The internship is an opportunity for the student to apply the material previously studied in your accounting courses. It provides practical experience in a variety of accounting job functions.

View 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.

Learn More

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.

Learn More

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.

Related Programs

Female financial advisor working with couple in home

Invested In Your Success

Have questions or need guidance?

Talk to an Advisor

Accounting

Get More Info

This program is perfect for...

What you can learn.

Pursue a career in accounting.

What our graduates say.

Get Started