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Program Overview
Madison College students choose to pursue a degree in accounting because of the variety of exciting career paths it offers.
Accounting Careers
Accounting professionals are in high demand by companies and organizations everywhere, so you can apply your skills to work in your community or take them anywhere. Employment opportunities in accounting exist in all industries, including financial, manufacturing, retail, service, non-profit and government institutions.
Madison College's two-year Accounting associate degree will get you ready for a range of professional positions in the field of accounting, including staff accountant, public accountant, cost accountant, tax accountant, account manager, account specialist or payroll accountant.
Real-world, Hands-on Learning
Madison College's accounting program teaches you real-world accounting concepts through hands-on learning. Our expert faculty will support your academic success by providing valuable feedback on your coursework to ensure you develop your accounting skills correctly.
Accounting Year 1
In your first year, you’ll learn essential accounting principles and develop a general understanding of business, finance and taxes. In addition, you’ll be skilled in using business tools like Microsoft Office Excel and QuickBooks.
Bonus: You'll automatically earn the Accounting Assistant technical diploma after completing the first-year curriculum!
Accounting Year 2
You'll expand your accounting knowledge in your second year learning intermediate accounting concepts, and gaining experience in cost management, payroll systems, economics and business law.
“I started an internship before graduating and can see firsthand how well-rounded our Accounting program is.
My main responsibility as an intern is to process Accounts Payable, and I apply concepts from almost every course I've taken while in my current position.”
— Carrie P.
Accounting Program AlumniIn your final term, you'll confidently complete a project demonstrating the accounting knowledge and skills you acquired in the program to perform real-world accounting for a small business. This capstone project is an instant resume-builder for you to showcase your newly acquired accounting talents to prospective employers.
Flexible Course Offerings
You can attend full- or part-time while taking courses in-person or online. Study close to home, whether in Madison at Truax or Goodman South campuses or regionally at our Reedsburg, Portage, Fort Atkinson or Watertown campuses.
Start Your Four-Year Degree Here!
Your accounting associate degree credits transfer if you plan to earn your bachelor’s degree to advance to a higher-level position in the field. We have transfer agreements with many four-year colleges, both inside and outside the state of Wisconsin.
What Is Accounting?
Learn more about accounting careers and Madison College accounting program options.
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Program Courses
Here's a sample course sequence that shows how classes for full-time students are typically organized by semester.
Once you're admitted, your full curriculum and sequence—including any pre-requisites—is defined in your Degree Progress Report.
First Semester10-101-111Accounting 1 - Principles
Introduction to the field of accounting. The accounting cycle of journalizing transactions, posting, adjusting and closing entries, as well as the preparation of accounting statements is emphasized for service industries and merchandising concerns. Details of accounting for cash and receivables are studied. An introduction to a computerized accounting system is also included.4 credits10-102-134Introduction to Business
Explore concepts related to business strategy, marketing, operations, finance, and corporate culture, as well as their interrelationship within the organization. Expand understanding through case studies and a computer business simulation. Recognize the role of small businesses and their participation in international markets. Use an Ethics framework, further explored in upper-level Program classes, to promote and enforce ethical behavior.3 credits10-106-109Business Spreadsheet Applications
Create professional data-driven workbooks utilizing Microsoft Office Excel spreadsheet software. Students will work with formulas to professionally format worksheets, create charts and tables, utilize advanced functions and apply conditional formatting, work with multiple worksheets, workbooks, and templates, incorporate data validation, utilize worksheet protection; create macros, export and cleanse data sets, and perform what-if analysis.3 credits10-804-144Math of Finance
This course takes an algebraic approach to solving financial problems. Topics include personal finance and retirement, mathematics of retailing, mathematics of banking and lending, and statistical applications. Major emphasis is placed on solving problems involving the time value of money by using a financial calculator. The material in this course develops a sound base for subsequent courses by using an analytical approach to problem solving.3 credits10-801-195Written Communication
Develops workplace writing skills which include prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing. A variety of writing assignments are designed to help the learner analyze audience and purpose, research and organize ideas, and format and design documents based on workplace subject matter and content.3 creditsSecond Semester10-101-113Accounting 2 - Principles
Procedures of accounting for partnerships and corporations. Additional topics include fixed assets, current liabilities and payroll, long-term liabilities, investments, statement of cash flows, analysis of financial statements, and may include an introduction to cost accounting.4 credits10-101-123Tax 1
Introduction to federal and state income tax laws with an emphasis on personal taxes. These areas are included: filing status, personal exemptions and standard deductions; income recognition, itemized deductions, credits, depreciation, gains and losses, and sole proprietorship taxation. The course also requires the preparation of a series of individual income tax returns.4 credits10-101-143QuickBooks
Student users work hands-on in QuickBooks Online to set-up company files; enter vendor, customer, and inventory data; track business activities; process payroll; prepare bank reconciliations, along with adjustments and year-end procedures; and create useful reports. A tutorial approach is followed using a textbook and practice problem company files. This course provides a good foundation to begin preparation to taking the Intuit QuickBooks Certified User exam through Certiport. This exam is not a requirement of the course.2 credits10-106-190Professional Development
Get fully prepared for your job or internship search! Build an electronic portfolio by creating an effective resume, cover letter, and thank you letter. Polish interviewing, networking, and personal branding skills. Learn effective techniques to present yourself to employers for job prospects or promotions.1 credit10-114-130Personal Finance
This introductory course considers finance from the point of view of the individual or family unit. Topics include budgets, insurance, housing, borrowing, saving, investing and estate planning. Students complete personal finance projects applying the material learned.3 credits10-801-196Oral/Interpersonal Communication
Focuses on developing effective listening techniques and verbal and nonverbal communication skills through oral presentation, group activity, and other projects. The study of self, conflict, and cultural contexts will be explored, as well as their impact on communication.3 creditsThird Semester10-101-121Accounting 3 - Intermediate
This intermediate-level course builds on the material covered in the Accounting Principles -1 and -2 courses. It expands on earlier coverage of both the income statement and balance sheet. Revenue recognition concepts and methods are covered. Emphasis is also placed on each classification of asset. This emphasis includes in-depth coverage of cash, receivables and inventory. Coverage also includes operational asset acquisition, depreciation, and disposal. Present value concepts are studied and applied. Excel spreadsheet software is used in this course.4 credits10-101-125Cost Management
This course presents typical accounting methods and processes that are used for collecting information for effective decision making for both manufacturing and service environments. Areas emphasized include job order costing, process costing, standard costing, activity based costing, budgeting, cost allocations, cost-volume-profit analysis and capital investment analysis. Students will be required to prepare and analyze various management reports.4 credits10-101-138Accounting and Payroll Systems
A survey of accounting and payroll systems covering procedures and methods to capture data and report financial information. Specific topics include flowcharting, internal controls, and transaction work in both manual and computerized environments. Special emphasis is also placed on payroll calculations and the processing of payroll information. Lab intensive course involving hands-on experience with Excel spreadsheet software and accounting software.3 credits10-809-199Psychology Of Human Relations
This course explores the relationship between general psychological principles and our everyday lives. Students are given the opportunity to achieve a deepened sense of awareness of themselves and others. This understanding is applied to human relations at home and on the job.3 creditsFourth Semester10-101-122Accounting 4 - Intermediate
Emphasizes analysis of financial statements. Generally accepted accounting principles are applied in the preparation, analysis and interpretation of financial statements. Particular emphasis is applied to valuation of current and long-term liabilities and stockholders’ equity, and earnings per share. Special topics included are deferred income taxes, long-term investments, and leases. Further consideration is applied to errors and their correction, and statements of cash flow. Comparison and analysis is also made between GAAP and international standards(IFRS).4 credits10-101-137Computerized Accounting Applications
Provides practical experience developing and applying flexible solutions to accounting problems using Excel. Spreadsheet tools that may be utilized include analysis formulas, cross-referencing and linking, lookup, statistical, date/time, database and financial functions; tables, pivot tables, dashboards, transferring Excel information into other programs, logical statements (IF); what-if tools, charting and macros. Students will also benchmark ten-key data entry speed and improve this skill as needed.2 credits10-101-142Accounting Capstone
This course will provide students an opportunity to demonstrate their attainment of program outcomes through the completion of a project. This project accounts for a small business through the accounting cycle, review of internal controls, and financial analysis.3 credits10-102-160Business Law 1
This survey course covers legal principles used in the business world. Major emphasis is placed on contracts along with torts, federal and state courts, criminal law, marital property and bankruptcy and wills. The course is taught on a level suitable for an associate degree student. Federal, state and case law serve as the basis of study.3 credits10-809-195Economics
This course is designed to give an overview of microeconomics, macroeconomics, and international economics. Concepts include scarcity, resources, alternative economic systems, growth, supply and demand, monetary and fiscal policy, inflation, unemployment and global economic issues.3 creditsExciting careers in business are waiting for you at Madison College.
Watch the video to learn more.
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How to Apply
To Apply
Earning a degree is a great way to advance your career development opportunities, so apply today!
If you are an international student and want to apply to Madison College, or transfer your F-1 student visa here, check program availability and then complete the International Admission Process.
Note: It is recommended to only apply for a semester that has already started if you are currently enrolled in classes, or you have verified that classes are still available for that semester.
Application Dates
Fall 2026
- Application open
- Application completion deadline is November 15, 2026
Spring 2027
- Application open
- Application completion deadline is April 15, 2027
Summer 2027
- Application available on September 15, 2026
- Application completion deadline is July 15, 2027
Fall 2027
- Application available on October 15, 2026
- Application completion deadline is August 31, 2027
Admission Requirements
All materials must be submitted by the application deadline.
1. Admission Application
The online application allows you to save your work as you complete it and ensures fast, secure delivery to our office.
2. Education Completion
Submit official transcripts from the institutions you attended that indicate one of the following:
- High school completion (current high school seniors may submit an in-progress transcript)
- GED/HSED completion
- College transcript or Madison College experience showing:
- Completion of an associate degree or higher, or
- At least 30 credits completed with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4-point scale
- The credits must be completed at a single college and cannot be combined with other transcripts
- Any transfer credit listed on a transcript does not count toward the 30-credit minimum
- Credits completed at Madison College are evaluated and do not require a transcript
All high school and/or college transcripts are recommended to be submitted for Credit for Prior Learning evaluation.
Additional Notes
Individual courses may have prerequisites to enroll. Admission into a certificate or waiting list does not guarantee eligibility to enroll in courses. See the Curriculum section for the list of courses for the certificate.
Questions?
Contact the Enrollment Center at EnrollmentServices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.
Get Started!
Apply to Madison College and take the first step towards your Accounting career.
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Transfer Opportunities
UW System Schools
The terms of the B.S in Leadership & Org Studies agreement are limited to students who complete selective A.A.S or A.A.A. degrees and are admitted to the Organizational Studies emphasis at UW-Oshkosh. Students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higherThis program-to-program articulation agreement between UW-Platteville and Madison College provides students with guaranteed admission into the UW-Platteville Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) Accounting major and to be awarded a minimum of 48 Associate Degree credits toward the BBA Accounting major after successful completion of their Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)-Degree at Madison College.This program-to-program articulation agreement between UW-Stevens Point and Madison College allows the opportunity for Madison College students who have earned the Associate Degree in Accounting, to be awarded 62 credits upon entry to the UWSP School of Business and Economics, Accounting major at a Junior level standing. SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS: 1. Associate degree graduates must have earned a minimum grade point average of 2.50. An ineligible candidate may appeal for consideration through the Head, School of Business and Economics. 2. UWSP’s Practicum in Computing - Excel course (CIS 102) will be waived for incoming transfer students per this articulation agreement. 3. The acceptance of credits applies only to this Program-to-Program Articulation. 4. For acceptance of equivalent courses, Madison College courses must have been completed within the last 5 years. Beyond this period, course equivalents will be assessed on an individual basis.Wisconsin Private Schools
Students completing an approved transfer program with a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or greater will be granted admission to a bachelors degree program. Transfer students must complete at least 25% of their baccalaureate degree credits at Herzing University.Student who earn an Associate Degree from Madison College can transfer a minimum of 60 credits and a maximum of 72 credits to Lakeland College to be applied to the requirements of the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Sciences degree.Completion of an A.A.S. Degree at Madison College after 2018, and meeting admission requirements for the Rader School of Business (RSOB) at the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) can earn a B.B.A degree in Technical Sales at MSOE.WTCS students that complete the Associate Degree in Accounting and apply to Viterbo University, are guaranteed acceptance of 45 core accounting content courses and 15 cr of general education totaling 60 cr. Students must have a minimum G.P.A. of 2.25 on a 4.0 scale.Out-of-State Schools
Franklin University will guarantee acceptance of Madison College graduates with an AA, AS, or AAS. Madison College graduates will have junior standing at Franklin University and may transfer up to 94 additional credits toward their baccalaureate degree. -
Career Outcomes
After completing the Accounting program at Madison College, you will be able to:
- Process financial transactions throughout the accounting cycle
- Evaluate financial information to support decision making
- Process payroll
- Perform cost accounting tasks
- Perform income tax accounting tasks
- Apply internal controls to minimize risk
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Graduate Summary
Graduate Report Summary Overview
2023 2024 2025 Number of Program Graduates 31 45 42 Number of Surveys Sent 31 45 42 Number of Surveys Returned 17 23 25 Percent of Surveys Returned Available for Employment 14 17 24 Percent Available for Employment 82.4% 73.9% 96.0% Not in Labor Market Percent Not in Labor Market 17.6% 8.7% 4.0% Available for Employment
2023 2024 2025 Graduates Employed 14 16 24 Percent of Graduates Employed 100.0% 94.1% 100.0% Employed in Related Occupation 11 12 20 Percent Employed in Related Occupation 78.6% 75.0% 83.3% Employed in Unrelated Occupation 3 4 4 Percent Employed in Unrelated Occupation 21.4% 25.0% 16.7% Employed - No Response 0 0 0 Percent Employed - No Response 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Seeking Employment 0 1 0 Percent Seeking Employment 0.0% 5.9% 0.0% Reaction To Training at Madison College
2023 2024 2025 Student satisfaction Mean (Out of 4) 3.5 3.8 3.6 Number of Satisfaction Responses 16 19 25 Very Satisfied (4) 8 16 16 Percent Very Satisfied 50.0% 84.2% 64.0% Satisfied (3) 8 3 9 Percent Satisfied 50.0% 15.8% 36.0% Unsatisfied (2) 0 0 0 Percent Unsatisfied 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Very Unsatisfied (1) Percent Very Unsatisfied 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Primary Reason for Attending Madison College
2023 2024 2025 Number of Primary Reason Responses 17 19 25 Preparation for Getting a Job 2 8 8 Percent Preparation for Getting a Job 11.8% 42.1% 32.0% Career Change 6 7 8 Percent Career Change 35.3% 36.8% 32.0% Improvement of Existing Skills 3 3 1 Percent Improvement of Existing Skills 17.6% 15.8% 4.0% Preparation for Further Education 4 1 8 Percent Preparation for Further Education 23.5% 5.3% 32.0% Personal Interest 2 0 0 Percent Personal Interest 11.8% 0.0% 0.0% Other 0 0 0 Percent Other 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% When Employment was Obtained
2023 2024 2025 Number of When Employment Obtained Responses 14 16 24 Before Enrollment 4 6 6 Percent Before Enrollment 28.6% 37.5% 25.0% While Attending the College 6 5 11 Percent While Attending the College 42.9% 31.3% 45.8% After Training at the College 4 5 7 Percent After Training at the College 28.6% 31.3% 29.2% Location of Employment (related and unrelated)
2023 2024 2025 Number of Employment Location Responses 14 20 24 In College District 12 16 21 Percent In College District 85.7% 80.0% 87.5% In Wisconsin, Not in District 1 0 1 Percent of In Wisconsin 7.1% 0.0% 4.2% Outside of Wisconsin 1 0 1 Percent Outside Wisconsin 7.1% 0.0% 4.2% Employer Location Unknown 0 4 1 Percent Location Unknown 0.0% 20.0% 4.2% Salary Trend 2023 2024 2025 Full Time Employment (Related Job) Full Time Salary Count 11 9 17 Average Monthly Wage $4,637 $4,284 $4,852 Average Hourly Wage $26.96 $24.91 $28.21 Average Work Hours per Week 40.0 40.4 40.1 Part Time Employment (Related Job) Part Time Salary Count 3 1 Average Hourly Wage $26.10 $23.00 Average Work Hours per Week 23.0 25.7 -
Graduate Employers
Graduate Employers for academic year: 2025 Employer(s) Job Title City* State** Positions Berndt CPA Accountant Bioferm Energy Systems Staff Accountant Capitol Bank Accounting Associate City of Madison Accountant Columbia County Health & Human Services Accounting Assistant Portage Degree Controls, Inc Accounts Receivable Specialist Nashua NH Diego Crespo Accounts Receivable Associate Edgerton Gear Administrative/Accounting Assistant Edgerton Envision IT Business Operations Assistant Fisher-Barton Group Staff Accountant Watertown Maple Bluff EMS & Fire Resident Services Specialist Meriter Hospital Clinical Nutrition Supervisor Mueller Sports Medicine Inc Cash Application Specialist Prairie du Sac Quicksave Games LLC Co-Founder Fitchburg Unspecified Accountant Unspecified Accounting Assistant Spring Green Wegner CPA & Consultants Staff Accountant 2 Weldcorp Mfg Financial Controller DeForest * - Only cities outside of Madison will display.
** - Only states outside of Wisconsin will display.
*** - If you have a position to post, please contact Career and Employment Services at jobpostings@madisoncollege.edu
