Accounting Program Header Image

Accounting involves the preparation of financial records that are a critical part of efficient and effective business operations. The GFC MSU Accounting program covers a wide range of topics related to the accounting field including a study of general business, individual income tax, payroll, and technology. Upon completion of this program students are prepared to work at public, private, or governmental organizations in a variety of positions including accounting clerk, bookkeeper, payroll technician, and tax preparer.

 
Job Title Average Wage Annual Job Openings Expected Growth
Tax Preparer MT: $46,770/yr
US: $46,290/yr
MT: 50
US: 9,800
MT: 12%
US: 2%
Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Audit Clerk MT: $37,370/yr
US: $45,560/yr
MT: 930
US: 170,200
MT: 0%
US: -3.0%
Payroll and Timekeeping Clerk MT: $46,640/yr
US: $47,610/yr
MT: 60
US: 11,400
MT: 0%
US: -13%
Billing and Posting Clerk MT: $37,250
US: $38,330
MT: 190
US: 48,900
MT: 12%
US: 3%

*Information obtained from O*NET OnLine

Graduates from this program will be prepared to: 

These skills are useful in every type of organization that wants to create and maintain and effective and efficient workplace.  Associate-level accountants are prepared to work in a variety of industries  including healthcare, retail, manufacturing, government, and not-for-profit. The positions can focus on specialized accounting skills like tax preparation or be part of the overall administrative support function of an organization that includes accounting and bookkeeping responsibilities.  At the associate degree level, there are no licensing requirements or additional certifications required to work in most areas of accounting.

The Great Falls College MSU Accounting Program is designed to be flexible. The entire program can be completed online, but students have the option to take classes in a variety of formats.  Small class sizes provide students with the opportunity to develop connections with other students and faculty with experience working directly in the field. The Accounting Program also has internship opportunities available for students who want to build skills and earn credits in a workplace setting.   

Accounting Program Estimated Costs

Figure Out Your Finances

Students seeking federal financial aid (which includes grants and loans) must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) which online at fafsa.ed.gov. As a result of completing a FAFSA, an applicant will receive a federal Student Aid Report (SAR) in the mail or online. An electronic version of the SAR is automatically sent to the schools listed on the FAFSA. To list Great Falls College MSU, use our school code: 009314.

Students applying for financial aid may also be required to provide proper federal income tax information, completed verification materials, and any other information requested by the Financial Aid Office. Students must apply for financial aid annually.

Assistance is available to prospective students applying for financial aid. In addition, financial aid counseling for new students is an integral part of the admissions and orientation process. Once enrolled, students may receive counseling and assistance as needed. For assistance, please call 406-771-4334, or write to the Financial Aid Office, Great Falls College MSU, 2100 16th Ave S, Great Falls, MT 59405, or email finaid@gfcmsu.edu.

Great Falls College MSU also offers a wide variety of different scholarships to assist you in paying for your college. To view a list of current scholarship offerings, please see our scholarship page.

 

Accounting Program Requirements

Continuing Your Education

The Associate of Applied Science degree in Accounting is designed to allow students to work in the field directly after graduation. Those who desire to continue their education may choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree in business or accounting at one of the following partner institutions:

Additional information about transferring Great Falls College credits to another institution can be found on our Transfer Opportunities page.

 


Accounting Faculty

 

Kerry Dolan

Kerry Dolan
Program Director/Faculty

Office: B112
Phone: 406.771.4380
kerry.dolan@gfcmsu.edu

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