WCC Business Department: Frequently Asked Questions

Can credit be granted for prior work or life experiences in lieu of required courses?
Yes. Credit can be granted for documented knowledge you gained from experience, not for the experience itself. Only documented experience, which has resulted in college-level learning equivalent to the objectives of an existing course, will be awarded credit. Call (734) 973-3724 for a Prior Learning Assessment Program brochure.

Do WCC accounting classes satisfy the requirement necessary to take the CPA exam if the student already has a four-year degree?
Students who have a four-year college degree can take courses at WCC to qualify for taking the CPA exam. For more information, call Mark Johnston of the accounting faculty at (734) 973-3578.

Are accounting classes at WCC transferable to four-year colleges and universities?
Yes. At the time of this writing, Accounting 111 and 122 are transferable to most four-year colleges and universities. In fact, these courses are prerequisites for most university business programs. It is always best to check with a WCC advisor or counselor to ensure that the courses will transfer to the college or university you're most interested in. The phone number for the WCC Advising office is (734) 973-5124.

How much time is required each week to complete homework for an accounting class?
Homework assignments are indeed very important to achieve learning goals in an accounting class. And it typically seems that accounting classes involve more homework than what is typical in other WCC classes. However, each accounting instructor tries hard to offer homework assignments that are reasonable and respects a student's busy schedule.

Can students who have taken accounting courses from area high schools articulate credit to WCC?
Yes, but it depends on what high school district you're from. It's best to call Brad Hoth, in the WCC Admissions Office, at (734) 973-3676.

What accounting software packages are being taught in the WCC classes that are required for the Associate Degree and Computerized Accounting Certificate programs?
The primary software being taught in the classes today are Peachtree and QuickBooks, both of which are being used by many businesses and nonprofit organizations.

How much background in computers do I need?
Washtenaw Community College now offers a certificate program in computerized accounting. It is recommended that students have at least a basic understanding of computers and minimum keyboarding skills. This new certificate program offers courses that provide the computer skills needed to better understand and utilize computerized accounting software. For more details, call (734) 677-5431 for a Computerized Accounting Program brochure.

How many hours in accounting do I need to receive a Bachelors Degree in Accounting?
24-30 credit hours depending on the college or university.