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Accounting Courses

Accounting courses can help you learn financial reporting, budgeting, tax preparation, and auditing principles. You can build skills in analyzing financial statements, managing cash flow, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Many courses introduce tools such as Excel for financial modeling, QuickBooks for bookkeeping, and various accounting software that streamline processes and enhance accuracy. By engaging with these topics and tools, you can gain practical knowledge that prepares you for various roles in finance and business.


Popular Accounting Courses and Certifications


  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Pennsylvania

    Introduction to Financial Accounting

    Skills you'll gain: Financial Statements, Financial Statement Analysis, Accrual Accounting, Financial Accounting, Financial Reporting, Accounting, Financial Analysis, Balance Sheet, Income Statement, Cash Flows, General Ledger, Bookkeeping, Revenue Recognition, Business Metrics, Return On Investment, Depreciation

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    8.4K reviews

    Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Pennsylvania

    Introduction to Finance and Accounting

    Skills you'll gain: Financial Statements, Financial Statement Analysis, Return On Investment, Accrual Accounting, Financial Accounting, Capital Budgeting, Financial Reporting, Accounting, Finance, Inventory Accounting, Financial Analysis, Balance Sheet, Income Statement, Portfolio Management, Capital Expenditure, Equities, Cash Flows, Corporate Finance, Forecasting, Cash Flow Forecasting

    4.6
    Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
    ·
    14K reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    U

    University of Lausanne

    Accounting 1

    Skills you'll gain: Balance Sheet, Income Statement, Cash Flows, Financial Accounting, Financial Statements, Accounting, Bookkeeping, Working Capital, General Accounting, Accrual Accounting, Financial Reporting, Financial Analysis, Ledgers (Accounting), Profit and Loss (P&L) Management, Accounts Payable and Receivable

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    274 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    I

    Intuit

    Intuit Academy Bookkeeping

    Skills you'll gain: Reconciliation, Financial Statements, Financial Statement Analysis, Inventory Accounting, Payroll, Bookkeeping, QuickBooks (Accounting Software), Payroll Administration, Inventory Control, Payroll Processing, Income Statement, Balance Sheet, Financial Reporting, Depreciation, Fixed Asset, Payroll Tax, Property Accounting, Accounting Software, Financial Accounting, Financial Analysis

    4.6
    Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
    ·
    8K reviews

    Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    I

    IESE Business School

    Accounting: Principles of Financial Accounting

    Skills you'll gain: Financial Statements, Financial Statement Analysis, Income Statement, Accounting, Cash Flows, Balance Sheet, Accrual Accounting, Financial Accounting, Financial Reporting, Microsoft Excel, Financial Analysis, Cash Management

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    3.3K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    I

    Intuit

    Bookkeeping Basics

    Skills you'll gain: Bookkeeping, QuickBooks (Accounting Software), Financial Statements, Accounting Software, Financial Accounting, Ledgers (Accounting), Accounting, Accounting Records, Balance Sheet, Income Statement, General Ledger, Small Business Accounting, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Cash Flows

    4.6
    Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
    ·
    6.4K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

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  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

    Financial Accounting: Foundations

    Skills you'll gain: Revenue Recognition, Accrual Accounting, Financial Statements, Accounting, Financial Accounting, Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Accounting Records, Inventory Accounting, Accounts Receivable, Income Statement, Balance Sheet, Financial Reporting, Cash Flows

    Build toward a degree

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    4.6K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Virginia

    Financial Accounting Fundamentals

    Skills you'll gain: Financial Statements, Financial Accounting, Balance Sheet, Financial Reporting, Financial Statement Analysis, Accounting, Annual Reports, Accrual Accounting, Income Statement, Financial Analysis, Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Accounting Records, Ledgers (Accounting), Cash Flows

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    2.8K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

    Fundamentals of Accounting

    Skills you'll gain: Balance Sheet, Financial Statements, Income Statement, Management Accounting, Financial Statement Analysis, Performance Measurement, Organizational Strategy, Capacity Management, Cost Accounting, Cost Control, Financial Reporting, Performance Metric, Asset Management, Financial Accounting, Financial Analysis, Budgeting, Budget Management, Accounting, Business Metrics, Small Business Accounting

    4.6
    Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
    ·
    2K reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of California, Irvine

    Introduction to Financial Accounting: The Accounting Cycle

    Skills you'll gain: Ledgers (Accounting), Accounting Systems, Accounting, Month End Closing, Accounting Records, Bookkeeping, Financial Accounting, Financial Statements, General Accounting, General Ledger, Accrual Accounting, Standard Accounting Practices, Financial Reporting, Income Statement, Balance Sheet, Revenue Recognition, Business Ethics, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Reconciliation, Transaction Processing

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    728 reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    T

    Technical University of Munich (TUM)

    Cost Accounting

    Skills you'll gain: Cost Accounting, Management Accounting, Income Statement, Operating Cost, Cost Management, Inventory Accounting, Profit and Loss (P&L) Management, Gross Profit, Strategic Decision-Making, Accounting, Product Planning, Resource Allocation, Product Assortment, Depreciation, Financial Accounting, Production Process, Financial Statements, Price Negotiation, Capacity Management, Decision Making

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    320 reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

    Financial Accounting: Advanced Topics

    Skills you'll gain: Cash Flows, Financial Statements, Financial Accounting, Depreciation, Fixed Asset, Equities, Financial Analysis, Financial Reporting, Balance Sheet, Accrual Accounting, Market Liquidity, Loans

    Build toward a degree

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    1.8K reviews

    Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

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In summary, here are 10 of our most popular accounting courses

  • Introduction to Financial Accounting: University of Pennsylvania
  • Introduction to Finance and Accounting: University of Pennsylvania
  • Accounting 1: University of Lausanne
  • Intuit Academy Bookkeeping: Intuit
  • Accounting: Principles of Financial Accounting: IESE Business School
  • Bookkeeping Basics: Intuit
  • Financial Accounting: Foundations: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
  • Financial Accounting Fundamentals: University of Virginia
  • Fundamentals of Accounting: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
  • Introduction to Financial Accounting: The Accounting Cycle: University of California, Irvine

Frequently Asked Questions about Accounting

Accounting is the systematic process of recording, analyzing, and reporting financial transactions. It plays a crucial role in business and personal finance by providing a clear picture of financial health. Understanding accounting is important because it helps individuals and organizations make informed decisions, manage resources effectively, and comply with legal requirements. Accurate accounting ensures transparency and accountability, which are vital for building trust with stakeholders.‎

A variety of job opportunities exist in the accounting field. Common positions include accountants, auditors, tax specialists, and financial analysts. Additionally, roles such as forensic accountants and management accountants are increasingly in demand. Each of these positions requires a solid understanding of accounting principles and practices, making it essential to acquire relevant skills and knowledge through education and training.‎

To succeed in accounting, you should develop a range of skills. Key competencies include analytical thinking, attention to detail, and proficiency in accounting software. Strong mathematical skills are also important, along with the ability to interpret financial data. Communication skills are essential for conveying complex information clearly to clients or stakeholders. Familiarity with regulations and ethical standards in accounting is equally crucial.‎

There are many online accounting courses available that cater to different skill levels and interests. Some of the best options include the Fundamentals of Accounting Specialization and the Introduction to Financial Accounting: The Accounting Cycle Specialization. These courses provide foundational knowledge and practical skills to help you succeed in the accounting field.‎

Yes. You can start learning accounting on Coursera for free in two ways:

  1. Preview the first module of many accounting courses at no cost. This includes video lessons, readings, graded assignments, and Coursera Coach (where available).
  2. Start a 7-day free trial for Specializations or Coursera Plus. This gives you full access to all course content across eligible programs within the timeframe of your trial.

If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in accounting, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎

To learn accounting effectively, start by identifying your learning goals and preferred study methods. You can explore online courses, textbooks, and tutorials. Engaging with interactive content and practical exercises can enhance your understanding. Additionally, consider joining study groups or forums to connect with others and share insights. Consistent practice and application of concepts will reinforce your learning.‎

Typical topics covered in accounting courses include financial statements, the accounting cycle, budgeting, and cost analysis. Courses may also address specialized areas such as tax accounting, auditing, and financial reporting. Understanding these topics will provide a comprehensive foundation in accounting principles and practices.‎

For training and upskilling employees in accounting, courses like the Accounting Data Analytics Specialization and Cost Accounting Specialization are excellent choices. These programs focus on practical skills and analytical techniques that can enhance workplace performance and decision-making.‎

This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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