BackACC 201 – Introduction to Financial Accounting and Reporting: Syllabus and Course Overview
Study Guide - Smart Notes
Tailored notes based on your materials, expanded with key definitions, examples, and context.
Course Overview
Introduction
This syllabus outlines the structure, objectives, and requirements for ACC 201 – Introduction to Financial Accounting and Reporting. The course is designed for BA in Management students and covers foundational topics in financial accounting, including the conceptual framework, recording transactions, accrual accounting, financial statement presentation, and analysis.
Course Objectives
Learning Goals
Understand the conceptual framework of accounting: Learn the basic principles and concepts that underpin financial accounting and reporting.
Record business transactions: Develop skills to record and analyze transactions using the double-entry system.
Apply accrual accounting: Distinguish between cash and accrual accounting, and understand the impact on financial statements.
Prepare and interpret financial statements: Gain proficiency in preparing the income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement, and interpreting their components.
Analyze financial position and performance: Use ratios and other tools to assess profitability, liquidity, and cash flows.
Understand internal control and ethical issues: Recognize the importance of internal controls and ethical behavior in accounting.
Course Materials
Textbook
Financial Accounting 12th Global edition plus MyAccountingLab and Pearson e-text by Harrison, W.T., Horngren, C.T., Thomas, C.W., Tiem, W.M., Sweeney, T. (Pearson Education, 2023). ISBN: 9780135218181
Online Resources
MyAccountingLab for assignments and practice problems.
Course web (SUCourse) for syllabus, lecture slides, assignments, and announcements.
Course Structure
Instructional Design
Combination of lectures and class exercises.
Emphasis on problem-solving and real-life financial scenarios.
Assignments and quizzes to reinforce learning.
Grading
Assignments (Home Quizzes): 30%
Mid-term Exam: 30%
Final Exam: 35%
Attendance (Bonus): 5%
Course Schedule
Weekly Topics
Week | Topic / Textbook Chapter | Assignment (MyLab) | Recitation class week? | Recitation work? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 / September 29 | Introduction to course and Accounting; Conceptual framework and overview of Financial Statements / 1 | HW1 | No | - |
2 / October 6 | Recording business transactions / 2 | HW2 | No | - |
3 / October 13 | Accrual accounting / 3 | HW3 | No | - |
4 / October 20 | Presentation of Financial Statements / 4 | HW4 | No | - |
5 / October 27 | Internal Control, Cash, and Receivables / 5 | HW5 | No | - |
6 / November 3 | Inventory and Merchandising Operations / 6 | HW6 | No | - |
7 / November 10 | Midterm Exam (Sat. 10:00 Midterm Ex.) | - | R1 | - |
8 / November 17 | PPE and Intangibles / 7 | HW7 | No | - |
9 / November 24 | Investments and International Operations / 8 | HW8 | No | - |
10 / December 1 | Liabilities / 9 | HW9 | No | - |
11 / December 8 | Stockholders' Equity / 10 | HW10 | No | - |
12 / December 15 | Cash Flow Statement / 11 | HW12 | No | - |
13 / December 22 | Financial Statement Analysis / 12 | HW12 | No | - |
14 / December 29 | January 1: No Class | - | - | - |
Requirements and Policies
Exams and Assignments
Two mid-term exams and one final exam.
Assignments (Home Quizzes) are completed via MyAccountingLab and are essential for mastering the material.
Attendance and participation are encouraged and rewarded.
Academic Integrity
Strict policy against cheating and plagiarism.
Assignments must be completed individually.
Use of Artificial Intelligence
AI tools may be used to support learning, but students must ensure their work is original and reflects their own understanding.
Tips for Success
Attend all classes and participate actively.
Complete assignments on time and review feedback.
Engage with course materials and seek help when needed.
Summary Table: Key Topics Covered
Chapter | Main Topic |
|---|---|
1 | Conceptual Framework and Financial Statements |
2 | Recording Business Transactions |
3 | Accrual Accounting |
4 | Presentation of Financial Statements |
5 | Internal Control, Cash, and Receivables |
6 | Inventory and Merchandising Operations |
7 | PPE and Intangibles |
8 | Investments and International Operations |
9 | Liabilities |
10 | Stockholders' Equity |
11 | Cash Flows |
12 | Financial Statement Analysis |
Additional info: This syllabus provides a comprehensive overview of the course structure, topics, and expectations for students enrolled in ACC 201. It is suitable for exam preparation and understanding the scope of financial accounting in a college setting.
