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Program facts 
Develop a basic understanding of tax law and procedures with this 18-credit-hour certificate program. You can complete this program on campus or online, giving you additional flexibility.
Take classes in financial accounting, payroll accounting, individual and business tax accounting, tax research, business software packages and business writing. Expand your learning outside the classroom by participating in Harper College’s active Accounting Club.
Individuals with accounting training are highly valuable to employers. Upon completion of this program, you’ll be well-positioned for entry-level employment as a tax preparer or accounting clerk.
This 17 credit-hour certificate program provides students with a basic understanding of tax law and tax procedures. The certificate includes coursework needed to obtain an entry-level position in national "chain" tax preparation companies as well as in CPA and accounting firms.
| Number | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Required | ||
| ACC 101 | INTRODUCTION TO FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING | 4 |
Description: Presents accounting as an information system that produces summary financial statements primarily for users external to a business. Emphasizes the reporting of the effect of transactions and other economic events on the financial condition and operating results of a business. Topics include basic accounting concepts, financial statements, accrual and cash basis, the accounting cycle, monetary assets, inventories, fixed assets, current and long-term liabilities and owner's equity. The course assumes a corporate form of organization. Note: High school algebra is recommended. IAI BUS 903 Lecture Hours: 4 Lab Hours: N/A Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| ACC 250 | INDIVIDUAL TAX ACCOUNTING | 3 |
Description: Offers a practical study of current federal and Illinois taxes as they relate to individual income tax procedures. Topics studied include income inclusions and exclusions, capital gains and losses, business and personal deductions, and accounting methods. Prerequisite: ACC 101 with a grade of C or better. Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: N/A Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| ACC 251 | BUSINESS TAX ACCOUNTING | 3 |
Description: Presents the basic concepts of corporation income taxation, partnerships, estates and trusts. The course includes a study of the taxation on the transfer of wealth, both during lifetime and testamentary. Prerequisite: ACC 101 with a grade of C or better. Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: N/A Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| ACC 257 | ETHICS AND TAX PRACTICES | 3 |
Description: Analyzes income tax issues that relate to the requirements of individuals who have the legal right to prepare tax returns on behalf of individuals, business entities, and estates and trusts. These requirements include ethical conduct, practice privileges, and assessment and appeal procedures that must be followed in representing clients before the IRS and other tax agencies. Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: 0 Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| ACC 261 | TAX RESEARCH | 1 |
Description: Presents basic techniques of conducting federal tax research using authoritative databases. Students will develop skills necessary and interpret tax case guidelines using tax cases. Students will communicate their research results in a professional business format. Recommended prerequisite: ACC 250 or equivalent experience. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: N/A Contact Hours: 1 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| or ACC 283 | CPA REVIEW COURSE/REGULATION | |
Description: Provides the student with the tools necessary to understand, review, and practice for the Regulation (REG) section of the CPA Exam. A general understanding of the topics listed in outline would constitute a minimum requirement. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 0 Contact Hours: 1 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| ENG 130 | BUSINESS WRITING | 3 |
Description: Teaches formal and psychological aspects of business correspondence. Introduction to various kinds of business letters, memoranda and reports. Improvement of grammar, spelling and word usage. Prerequisite: ENG 096 with a grade of P or other placement options. https://www.harpercollege.edu/testing/english-placement-grid.php Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: N/A Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| Total Hours | 17 | |
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For more information about studying accounting at Harper College, contact Admission Outreach at 847.925.6700, or submit a request information form. You can also apply online.