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Bookkeeping and Accounting Undergraduate Certificate

Start Your Path to a Career in Bookkeeping and Accounting

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Certificate in Bookkeeping and Accounting

Career Outlook and Growth

Looking for a career that provides job stability combined with growth opportunity? A career in bookkeeping and accounting provides both. With a Bookkeeping and Accounting Undergraduate Certificate from Bryan University, you’ll gain a specialized skillset that will help set you apart in the marketplace.

Expanding Career Opportunities

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for Accounting and Bookkeeping professionals are expected to add another 183,900 industry job openings in the United States through the year 2032.1

Bryan University can fast-track you to success, giving you the education, skills, and confidence to qualify for a great job in less than a year!

1Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/office-and-administrative-support/bookkeeping-accounting-and-auditing-clerks.htm (visited February 5, 2024). Also online at https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/43-3031.00. Note that job market conditions are dynamic and can change. This data is not intended to predict the market conditions that will be present when you graduate from your program and may differ based on your geographic location and other factors.

Attractive Careers

As a graduate of the Bryan University Bookkeeping and Accounting Certificate program, you’ll have the knowledge and skills to be job-ready for career opportunities2 such as:

  • Accounting Assistant
  • Accounts Payable Specialist
  • Accounts Receivable Specialist
  • Bookkeeper
  • Bank Teller
  • File Clerk
  • Payroll Clerk
  • Insurance Claims & Policy Processing Clerk
  • Loan Processor

2Example occupations shown herein do not imply a guarantee of employment. Students are responsible for conducting occupational research for their chosen program. Employers have unique hiring practices and job-specific requirements, which may include years of experience for manager positions. Graduates with little to no prior experience should expect an entry-level position.

Diverse Employers

With hands-on training and the right preparation from an accredited school, you could find yourself working in a career you love. Graduates may find themselves working in a variety of settings such as:

  • Business consulting groups
  • Federal, state, and local government agencies
  • Finance and insurance firms
  • Manufacturing and production facilities
  • Small to large businesses
  • Non-profit enterprises
  • Service industries
  • Retailers
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Career & Job Search Services for Students & Grads

You’ll receive a dedicated career services advisor that provides job search assistance, job networking best practices, interview preparation, and helps you create an eye-catching resume.

Employers Who Have Hired BU Grads

Program Highlights

24
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Total Credits
100%
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Online
2
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Courses at a Time
8
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Weeks per Course

Get the Skills Employers Want

Bryan U programs are aligned with employers’ needs to ensure you get the most current and relevant skills, including:

Certificate

  • Accounting & bookkeeping principles
  • Accounting & bookkeeping practice with QuickBooks
  • Payroll accounting
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Business communications 
  • Profit calculations
  • Fundamentals of taxation for individuals & businesses
  • Preparation for the Microsoft Excel Specialist Certification and the National Association of Bookkeepers Certification exams.

Associate Degree

  • Leadership & management
  • Accounting & financial statements
  • Business analytics
  • Accounting principals
  • Ethics & business law
  • Speaking & presenting
  • Management & strategy
  • Preparation for NACPB’s Bookkeeping, Accounting, Tax, & QuickBooks certs – two exam attempts included in tuition

Gain Valuable Experience

Bryan University’s Bookkeeping and Accounting Certificate is aligned with current competencies that employers need and developed in collaboration with industry experts. You’ll gain real-world practice experience online combined with assignments that simulate job tasks to ensure you’re job-ready upon graduation

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Get valuable practice during your program in preparation to take the National Association of Public Bookkeepers in Bookkeeping certification– one attempt included in tuition.

Simulated Job Tasks

Complete course assignments that are based on real-world cases and simulate related job tasks.

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Upgrade Your Skills & Career Options: Stackable Programs with Dual Enrollment

You can enroll in the Bookkeeping and Accounting Certificate and the Associate Degree in Accounting concurrently. This means once you complete your certificate, you can get to work sooner while completing your associate degree. If you have prior college credit, or you have already completed an associate degree at another institution, we will accept as many credits as possible (and potentially your entire associate degree) to help accelerate your Bryan program.

Hear from Our Successful Graduates

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"The experience at Bryan University exceeded my expectations and improved my life." 
–Claire Cielinski, BU Graduate
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“I’ve never met a group who care about students the way the instructors do at Bryan. It was an awesome experience.”
–Brandon Granger, BU Graduate

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Meet Your Program Faculty

  • Dr. Jennifer Newmann
    Dr. Jennifer Newmann
    Program Director, Bryan University

    Doctor of Education, EducLeadership, University of California San Diego; Global Master of Business Administration, National University. Bachelor of Science, Psychology, Arizona State University.

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    Dr. Jennifer Newmann
    Dr. Jennifer Newmann Program Director, Bryan University

    Doctor of Education, EducLeadership, University of California San Diego; Global Master of Business Administration, National University. Bachelor of Science, Psychology, Arizona State University.

  • Dr. Carlos Aquino
    Dr. Carlos Tassa Eira de Aquino
    Faculty, Bryan University

    Master of Science, Structural Engineering, The George Washington University; Doctor of Science in Nuclear Power Plants and Fuel Technology, University of São Paulo; Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro; Post-Doctorate Qualification in Educational Management, University of Campinas.

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    Dr. Carlos Aquino
    Dr. Carlos Tassa Eira de Aquino Faculty, Bryan University

    Master of Science, Structural Engineering, The George Washington University; Doctor of Science in Nuclear Power Plants and Fuel Technology, University of São Paulo; Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro; Post-Doctorate Qualification in Educational Management, University of Campinas.

  • Brad Barber
    Brad Barber
    Faculty, Bryan University

    Master of Education, Specializing in Best Practices, National University; BS, Economics, Brigham Young University.

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    Brad Barber
    Brad Barber Faculty, Bryan University

    Master of Education, Specializing in Best Practices, National University; BS, Economics, Brigham Young University.

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Meet Your General Education Faculty

  • Valerie Akbulut portrait
    Valerie Akbulut
    Faculty, Bryan University

    Master of Arts, Communication, Interpersonal Comm Track, University of Central Florida; Bachelor of Arts, Journalism, Specialization – Integrated Communication: Public Relations & Adve, Communication Studies minor, Butler University.

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    Valerie Akbulut portrait
    Valerie Akbulut Faculty, Bryan University

    Master of Arts, Communication, Interpersonal Comm Track, University of Central Florida; Bachelor of Arts, Journalism, Specialization – Integrated Communication: Public Relations & Adve, Communication Studies minor, Butler University.

  • Kelly Baker portrait
    Kelly Baker
    Faculty, Bryan University

    Doctor of Public Administration, West Chester University of Pennsylvania; Master of Arts, Communication Studies, West Chester University of Pennsylvania; Bachelor of Arts, Communication, Immaculata University.

    read more
    Kelly Baker portrait
    Kelly Baker Faculty, Bryan University

    Doctor of Public Administration, West Chester University of Pennsylvania; Master of Arts, Communication Studies, West Chester University of Pennsylvania; Bachelor of Arts, Communication, Immaculata University.

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    Tonia Benton
    Faculty, Bryan University

    Doctor of Education, Higher Education Leadership, Walden University; Master of Arts, Education: Curriculum/Instruction, University of Phoenix; Bachelor of Arts, English/Secondary Education, Converse College

    read more
    bu seal placeholder
    Tonia Benton Faculty, Bryan University

    Doctor of Education, Higher Education Leadership, Walden University; Master of Arts, Education: Curriculum/Instruction, University of Phoenix; Bachelor of Arts, English/Secondary Education, Converse College

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Program Learning Outcomes

Following the completion of this program, students will be able to:

  • Communicate effectively with supervisors, peers, or subordinates, providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
  • Perform basic accounting calculations for accurate cash management, payroll, and tax reporting using business software.
  • Critically analyze and apply problem solving and logical thinking skills to a variety of bookkeeping and accounting tasks.
  • Demonstrate compliance with federal, state, and company policies, procedures, and regulations.
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Explore Bookkeeping and Accounting Courses

  • BUS-257, 3.0 credits
    Accounting Practice with QuickBooks

    In this course students apply accounting concepts to keep financial records for small service and merchandising companies using QuickBooks. Students learn how to expertly navigate through QuickBooks, perform day-to-day business transactions, and view reports. Topics covered include chart of accounts, accounts receivable, accounts payable, inventory, payroll, and financial statements.

  • BUS-265, 3.0 credits
    Fundamentals of Taxation

    This course provides an introduction to federal income taxation of individuals and businesses, providing a broad overview of the importance of tax considerations in business and personal decisions. Topics such as financial statement analysis, income, deductions, credits, depreciations, and allowances will be explored.

  • UNV-101S, 3.0 credits
    Student Success and Technology Foundations

    A course covering the information and skills needed to succeed in academic studies, including study skills, setting academic goals, managing time, and technology skills such as word processing and presentations.

  • BUS-115, 3.0 credits
    Business Math

    This course focuses on a basic math review with an emphasis on business statistics, profit calculations, payroll, banking, interest calculations, insurance, taxes, and mathematical calculations.

  • BUS-120, 3.0 credits
    Accounting Principles I

    This course provides the foundation for accounting concepts which will be used throughout the students' business program. This course covers an introduction to financial accounting theory and practice and provides students with the tools needed to develop a functional knowledge of fundamental accounting principles. Students will also be introduced to the methods for summarizing, analyzing, and reporting financial data. Topics include bookkeeping cycles, basic accounting principles and procedures, financial statements, merchandising operations and inventory, and accounting for assets.

  • BUS-130, 3.0 credits
    Microsoft Excel I

    Electronic spreadsheets are a powerful tool used in business processes to store, analyze and present information. The focus of the course is to provide the student with functional skills needed to create, edit, and format Microsoft Excel worksheets for a variety of reporting needs.

Pagination Testimonials

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A legacy of graduate success since 1940.

Accreditation & Approvals

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Benefits for You

Included in Tuition

As a Bryan University student, you’ll receive these benefits and services included in tuition at no extra cost.

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    Industry Certifications & Credentials

    Prepare for third-party certifications – one certification exam attempt paid for by the university.

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    Electronic Books & Courseware

    We give you easy access to your e-textbooks and software.

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    Tutoring & Academic Support

    Our tutors and academic staff provide personalized support whenever you need it.

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    School Starter Kit

    You’ll receive a starter package to ensure you’re ready to succeed in your program.

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    Accelerated Programs & No Waiting Lists

    Finish in the shortest time possible and never get wait-listed for course registration.

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    Refresher Classes

    As a graduate, audit previously completed courses free to keep your skills sharp.

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    Personal Success Coach

    You'll receive dedicated support to help you succeed in and out of the classroom.

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    Career Services

    Get expert help to ensure you're job-ready and connect with employers.

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    Mentoring from Expert Faculty

    Learn from faculty with real-world experience in their field.

Recommended by Students & Grads

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Why Learn Online

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    Flexible & Convenient

    We recognize that life can be busy and complex, so we’ve designed the learning experience around you. You have the option to complete your homework assignments online each week at days and times convenient to you. You have the flexibility to resubmit homework to improve your grades and gain greater mastery of the course content.

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    Learn Faster & Retain More

    We provide you with user-friendly learning technology such as adaptive digital textbooks and simulated job tasks to help you learn faster, easier, and retain more knowledge. All your efforts are recorded so you can track your progress and plan your time more effectively.

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    Personalized Academic Support

    Studying online with Bryan lets you learn from the comfort of home while connecting you in live events with peers, teachers, industry professionals, and mentors. If you happen to miss the event, we record them so can you watch them later and not miss a beat. Whenever you need help with an assignment, you can schedule a tutor at any time online with the click of a button.

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    Live, Industry-Relevant Events

    You will have ample opportunities to connect with your classmates and expand your professional network through monthly live webinars on industry-relevant topics.

How You Learn Online

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Live Classes & Events on Zoom

Most programs provide live classes that are also recorded in case you miss them and need to watch them later - click here for a list of live classes by program.

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Re-submit Homework for Mastery

Didn't get the grade you wanted? At Bryan U, you can resubmit your homework to improve your grades.

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User-Friendly Learning Technology

You'll learn using a program that adapts to your knowledge level while helping you learn faster and retain more.

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Share Your Interests

Engage with others in class using a social platform to share your thoughts on topics you're interested in.

BU Student Experience

Affording College

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Tuition Lock Guarantee

Bryan offers affordable tuition rates for all students, no matter where they reside. We don't differentiate between residents or non-residents. We also lock-in your tuition rate when you enroll, so you can rest assured that your tuition will never increase over the length of your program.

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Transfer Credits

If you apply to Bryan University with prior college credits and/or a degree, we’ll accept as many credits as possible to validate the hard work you’ve already completed. If you complete a Bryan U associate degree or undergraduate certificate, these credits are transferrable to a higher degree, such as a bachelor’s degree.

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Financial Aid if You Qualify

As an accredited institution, students of Bryan University who are residents of the United States may qualify for federal financial aid. Our team of dedicated financial advisors can also help you understand what other options are available to you. To learn about those who qualify, please visit our financial aid page.

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Active-Duty Military & Veterans

For students who are veterans or active-duty members of the U.S. military, you may also use your military educational benefits, if qualified. Please see our military benefits page for more details. You may also complete the Request Information form or call us at 888-721-9773 to receive immediate assistance.

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Tuition Rates Go Down the Longer You're in School

As you progress through each credential level (e.g., certificate to associate degree, or associate degree to bachelor’s degree), your tuition decreases. Plus, your tuition is locked in once you enroll so that it never goes up as long as you remain continuously enrolled in good academic standing. For a current listing of Bryan University’s tuition rates by program, please visit our tuition rates page.

Admission Requirements

To be admitted to Bryan University, prospective students must complete the following requirements:

  • Earn a high school diploma or its equivalent.
  • Be at least 17 years of age. If a student is under the age of 18, they will be required to have a parent or legal guardian counter-sign enrollment forms.
  • Fill out the University’s Application and pay a $25 registration fee.
  • Pass a computer and internet speed assessment to ensure technology minimums are met. Please see the university’s course catalog to see detailed technology requirements.
  • Complete all required forms for admission.
  • For transfer credit evaluation, submit official transcripts from past colleges and universities attended.
  • Complete an online introductory course – “LaunchPad” – to demonstrate the ability to navigate online coursework.
  • Attend online orientation to meet your faculty and classmates.
  • For all healthcare, public health, paralegal, and pharmacy technician programs, applicants must complete and pass a required criminal background check, which is provided by the university.
  • Note that students applying to healthcare programs may need to identify a practicum site. The university provides a list of approved practicum sites and will support students in site selection.

To begin this process, we invite you to contact a member of our admissions team at 888-768-6861 or complete the Request Information form.

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