Programs of Study


Accounting and Finance: Payroll Certificate

Program Description

Craven Community College’s Accounting curriculum is designed to provide students with the knowledge and the skills necessary for employment and growth in the accounting profession. Using the language of business, accountants assemble, analyze, process, and communicate essential information about financial operations.

For degree completion, students are required to successfully complete 69 semester hour credits (SHC) of courses. Students study financial and managerial accounting, taxes, governmental and not-for-profit accounting, bookkeeping, auditing, and payroll accounting. In addition to 10 required courses in accounting principles, theories, and practice, students learn about business law, general business, and economics. Related skills are developed through the study of communications, social sciences and humanities, and computer applications. Students may complete the program online, as well as in traditional face-to-face formats.

Craven Community College’s Accounting Program is accredited by the Accreditation Council of Business Schools and Programs.

Admission Criteria

Admission to this program requires that students be high school graduates or have a recognized equivalency. 

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

  • Analyze, classify and record transactions for profit and non-profit organizations.
  • Demonstrate mastery of accounting skills for
  1. adjusting entries,
  2. correction of accounting errors,
  3. payroll,
  4. inventory,
  5. depreciation, and
  6. internal controls and fraud prevention.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of federal and state tax law.

Career Opportunities

The Accounting program prepares students to begin their careers assisting accountants as full-charge bookkeepers, junior accountants, accounting clerks or office managers. An accounting assistant provides bookkeeping capabilities to a variety of employers through such responsibilities as accounts receivable/payable, payroll, balance sheets, and income statements, billing, and bank statement reconciliation. Entry-level accounting positions are offered in many types of organizations, including:

  • accounting firms
  • small businesses
  • manufacturing firms
  • banks
  • hospitals
  • school systems
  • governmental agencies

With work experience and additional education, an individual may advance in the accounting profession.

Contact Information

Executive Director of Career Programs
252-638-7372

Admissions Office
252-638-7430

Certificate Requirements

Courses in this program

Certificate Classes