ACC 850 Managerial Accounting

MBA Core Course - Integrated Skills Course

In today's society, accountants must not only help to generate the data which determines continued viability of a firm but also must be able to effectively communication the importance of the data to business executives. To assist the MBA students in achieving those goals, it is expected that incoming students understand basic accounting principles. A review of cost accounting issues will be part of this course, e.g., variable and fixed costs, opportunity costs, buy/sell costs, breakeven analysis and other cost accounting issues. However, emphasis will be placed on managerial accounting and the management of the information being provided. Preparing, understanding, and being able to explain financial statements will be a focus in the class. The importance of understanding concepts and issues associated with budgets, forecasting, income analysis, performance evaluation/analysis, and similar concepts will be stressed. Application of managerial accounting concepts is further stressed in real-world projects designed for each student to enhance their knowledge of a certain subject. Students can choose to design a project associated with their work experience or a project can be provided for them. Such projects could provide a value-added argument for continued employer "buy-in" to support the student's pursuit of their MBA degree. This course will help prepare students for future management roles by developing critical thinking and problem solving skills. Using accounting concepts to stimulate such skills will net an effective manager who can effectively communicate the needs of the firm to the user of the information.

Course stresses:

• Oral and written communication.
• Critical thinking
• Problem solving

Catalog Description:

Focus on managerial accounting concepts, including costing, budgeting, forecasting, planning and control. Emphasis on preparing and using financial statements as well as various managerial reports for decision-making.

Course Prerequisites:

ACC 201, ACC 202, or ACC 820 or equivalent each with a minimum grade of "B-".