Accounting

Students in the classroom listening to the instructors lecture

Optimize Your Earning Potential in the Accounting Field

Develop the skills and abilities needed to succeed in the highly competitive business world by studying accounting at NOVA. You can choose from the following degrees and certificates.

AVAILABLE PROGRAMS

Associate Degree in Accounting

Launch or advance your career in the accounting field with NOVA’s Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Accounting degree. You’ll be prepared for jobs as an accounting trainee, accounting technician, junior accountant and accountant. By taking three additional courses, you can earn the Career Studies Certificate (CSC) in Accounting and be eligible to sit for the Certified Public Accountancy (CPA) exam.

Length
Two Years
Credits
64
Locations
Alexandria, Annandale, Loudoun, Manassas, Woodbridge
Curriculum Details

Accounting Career Studies Certificate

With NOVA’s Career Studies Certificate (CSC) in Accounting, you’ll meet the Virginia Board for Accountancy requirements to sit for the Certified Public Accountancy (CPA) exam. You’ll also be prepared for accounting positions in the government and private sectors.

Length
One Year
Credits
27
Locations
Alexandria, Annandale, Loudoun, Manassas, Woodbridge, Online
Curriculum Details

Accounting Information Security with Data Analytics Career Studies Certificate

With NOVA’s Career Studies Certificate (CSC) in Accounting Information Security with Data Analytics, you’ll be prepared for the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) exam. If you’re a CPA, you’ll be prepared for the Certified Information Technology Professional (CITP) exam.

Length
One year
Credits
28
Locations
Alexandria, Annandale, Loudoun, Manassas, Woodbridge
Curriculum Details

Bookkeeping Certificate

With NOVA’s Bookkeeping certificate, you’ll gain the knowledge you need to keep a simple set of accounting books and qualify for entry-level bookkeeping and accounting positions.

Length
One Year
Credits
31
Locations
Alexandria, Annandale, Loudoun, Manassas, Woodbridge, Online
Curriculum Details

Why Study Accounting at NOVA?

Dedicated Accounting Faculty

You’ll learn from NOVA accounting faculty who are passionate teachers committed to your success. They’re also experienced accounting experts who know what you need to succeed.

Relevant Accounting Courses

You’ll take classes that feature leading technology and relevant content that’s designed to help you stand out for accounting and bookkeeping jobs.

Affordable Accounting Programs

You’ll receive an affordable accounting education. You may even qualify for NOVA scholarships and those offered through accounting organizations such as AFWA, AICPA, TACTYC and VSCPA.

Program Details

The Accounting program currently offers four pathways for students to pursue;

  1. Bookkeeping Certificate
    • Provides students with sufficient knowledge to keep a simple set of accounting books and to qualify for entry-level positions in bookkeeping and accounting
  2. Career Studies Certificate (CSC) in Accounting Information Security with Data Analytics
    • Prepares students for the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) exam and prepares registered CPAs for the Certified Information Technology Professional (CITP) exam.
  3. Career Studies Certificate (CSC) in Accounting
    • Meets the requirements of the Virginia Board for Accountancy to sit for the CPA examination.
  4. Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Accounting

Upon completion of the program, students can take an additional three courses for the Accounting Career Studies certificate and then are eligible to proceed to the Certified Public Accountancy (CPA) exam (if other education requirements are satisfied).

More Program Details and Resources

Accreditations

Northern Virginia Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award the associate degree in accounting and accounting certificates.

Accounting Program Career Outcomes

By studying accounting at NOVA, you’ll develop the critical thinking and analytical skills you need to excel in the accounting profession. You’ll be prepared to stand out for job opportunities such as accounting trainee, accounting technician, junior accountant and accountant.

Credits and
Transfer Info

Credit for Prior Learning

Northern Virginia Community College accepts industry-standard certifications, credentials and/or professional courses for credit. Broadly, licenses, credentials and/or certifications must be current and valid for consideration. For more information regarding the status of the certification and its eligibility for credit, please see an advisor or faculty members in the discipline area that awards CPL credit.

Transferring

While transfer isn't the main focus of this credential, NOVA maintains agreements for smooth transitions of career-oriented programs to senior institutions. Explore transfer possibilities and connect with an advisor or counselor for personalized guidance.

Your Next Steps to NOVA