Accounting Associate Degree
Begin a Rewarding Career with an Associate Degree in Accounting from NECC
Why Enroll in the Accounting Associate Degree Program?
Are you a detail-oriented person with a strong work ethic who enjoys analyzing numbers and talking things through? If so, earning an Associate Degree in Accounting from NECC could be the equation you need to thrive as a professional accountant.
Crunch the Numbers: NECC Degrees Really Add Up
NECC’s Accounting Associate Degree program will equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in tasks ranging from basic bookkeeping to complex financial analysis, making you highly sought after in the job market. In addition to learning basic accounting principles, you’ll be able to gain real-life experience through internships at local companies and join Alpha Beta Gamma, a prestigious national business honor society.
Ready to discover how an accounting degree could be the ideal math for you?
Accounting Associate Degree Program at NECC
View video on the NECC YouTube Channel.
What You’ll Get from Our Accounting Program
Where Numbers Meet Opportunity
In the world of accounting, every number tells a story, opening doors to endless possibilities. Here, at the intersection of numbers and opportunity, your analytical skills will not only be valued but will also become the foundation of your professional success in an exciting career in business, industry, banking, government, or non-profits.
Because there are many job opportunities for part-time auditors and bookkeepers, some NECC Accounting graduates work while earning a bachelor’s degree.
Do Cool Stuff, Not Just Homework
Forget about endless lectures. We’re talking about interactive classes and workshops where you practice what you’ve learned in real-life scenarios, as well as projects that connect you with others in the local community. You’ll have the opportunity to join Alpha Beta Gamma, a prestigious national business honor society.
Gear Up for a Great Career as an Accountant or Auditor
At NECC, we’re here to help you build a skill set that’s in demand. Whether you see yourself as a Bookkeeper, Chief Financial Officer (CFO), or anything in between, we’ve got you covered. While guiding you every step of the way, our experienced instructors will show you how to:
Learn accounting theory and practice, cost methods, and financial reporting- Begin working immediately as a bookkeeper, accountant, or auditor
- Thrive while working in a wide variety of industries and business settings, including your home
- Improve your communication skills
- Gain real-world experience through internships at local companies
Your Schedule, Your Rules
Juggling life, work, and study? No problem. With a mix of online and on-campus options, NECC makes it easy for you to fit study into your life, not the other way around. Many classes in our Associate Degree in Accounting program are offered in hybrid format and generally require attendance a few hours per week at our Lawrence or Haverhill campuses during the day or evening.
Once you’ve completed our Accounting Associate Degree, you have the option of applying those credits toward a bachelor’s degree in a related field at a four-year institution.
Quote:
My internship was at Bradford & Bigelow, Inc. and I was hired for a full-time position a month after I completed my internship.”
FAUSTO CABA, NECC ACCOUNTING MAJOR
Where This Journey Can Take You
An accountant is well-versed in how to help businesses, individuals, and organizations make critical financial decisions by collecting, tracking, and correcting their finances. Accountants are responsible for financial audits, reconciling bank statements, and ensuring financial records are accurate throughout the year.
Imagine yourself serving in one of these accounting roles:
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
- Management Accountant
- Auditor
- Government Accountant
- Project Accountant
- Tax Examiner
- Many more!
Why Choose NECC for Your Accounting Degree?
We Get It
At NECC, inspiring our students to succeed is our top priority. Modern, relevant, and engaging, our Accounting Associate Degree courses are designed with you in mind.
NECC’s dedicated faculty and staff help students develop the skills they need to advance in the workforce or transfer to a four-year college or university. Our small class sizes ensure personalized attention and support, empowering students to thrive academically. We also offer a variety of student support services, including tutoring, counseling, and academic advising.
With over 60 credit programs, two convenient campuses, robust student support services, and a vibrant student life, NECC is committed to providing an affordable, accessible, and high-quality education for all.
Learn from the Pros
Our instructors aren’t just teachers. They’re experienced professionals who live and breathe accounting.
Experience Beyond the Classroom
At NECC, it’s not just about earning a degree. It’s about building a network, finding your tribe, and acquiring the tools necessary to chase your dreams. Our Haverhill and Lawrence campuses are home to a diverse range of clubs and organizations and activities that help students connect with peers who share similar interests.
Whether you choose to gain leadership experience, stay healthy and fit, join a club, or participate in varsity sports, and student activities, we’ll guarantee you’ll have fond memories of your time at NECC.
We Got Your Back
From the day you start until the day you land your first big gig, our team is here to support, guide, and cheer you on. At NECC, our goal is to empower our students by equipping them with the skills and tools necessary to thrive, wherever they choose to work.
Career Services
NECC Connect
What Can I Do With This Major?
Got Prior Learning or Work Experience?
With NECC’s Credit for Prior Learning, you can move through the program at a faster pace, and graduate sooner! The best part is these credits are covered free-of-charge for eligible Massachusetts learners.
Support for Every Student
NECC offers a variety of student support services, including tutoring, counseling, and academic advising, to help students thrive academically. Want to transfer to NECC? Our advisors are happy to assist you.
Career outlook for accountants in Massachusetts
Accountants across America serve a vital role by helping individuals and businesses make informed financial decisions. Due to increasing demand, job opportunities for accountants and auditors are growing approximately 4% annually. At NECC, our Accounting program graduates have an exceptional rate of employment while working in various settings within the private, public, and government sectors.
How much can I expect to make as an accountant?
The earning potential for accountants in Massachusetts varies based on several factors, including education, certification, role, experience, and employment setting. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual median wage¹ for an accountant or auditor in the U.S. is around $80,000.
With an Accounting Associate Degree from NECC, you’ll be qualified to pursue or advance your career in these accounting roles:
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
Perform various accounting duties, including tax preparation, auditing, and consulting. The median annual wage in Boston, MA, for this role was $297,765 as of April, 2024. The wage range typically falls between $78,733 and $516,797.¹
Management Accountant
While working in the public, private, and government sectors, duties include recording and analyzing numbers, helping to choose and manage company investments, risk management, budgeting, planning, strategizing, and decision making. The median annual wage in Boston, MA, for this role was $70,348 as of April, 2024. The wage range typically falls between $64,118 and $77,569.¹
Auditor
Examine, analyze, and interpret accounting records to prepare financial statements, give advice, or audit and evaluate statements prepared by others. Install or advise on systems of recording costs or other financial and budgetary data. The median annual wage in Boston, MA, for this role was $110,079 as of April, 2024. The wage range typically falls between $100,514 and $120,694.¹
Government Accountant
While working at the federal, state, or local level, manage public funds, investigate white-collar crime, perform financial statement audits for government agencies and conduct research on emerging accounting issues. The median annual wage in Boston, MA, for this role was $68,416 as of April, 2024. The wage range typically falls between $61,535 and $74,835.¹
Project Accountant
As the financial gatekeeper, a project accountant manages the expenses, billing, and budget for one or more projects. The median annual wage in Boston, MA, for this role was $86,762 as of April, 2024. The wage range typically falls between $75,351 and $99,581.¹
Tax Examiner
Determine tax liability or collect taxes from individuals or businesses according to prescribed laws and regulations. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $85,043 as of March, 2024. The wage range typically falls between $76,199 and $95,177.¹
How to get started as an accountant in the Merrimack Valley
Feeling pumped? We thought so! Get more details about how to apply for the Accounting Associate Degree program. Still unsure that it’s the right fit for you?
FAQs
Sources and Citations: ¹Salary information provided on this page is sourced from Salary.com. The data reflects estimates based on employer surveys and job listings. Actual salaries may vary based on location, experience, and other factors.
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Campus Tour and Info Session – Haverhill
9:00 am to 10:30 am
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Success Story
Catherine Greene
Accounting major Catherine Greene of Plaistow, NH attends Northern Essex full time, works 25 to 60 hours a week, and is training for a May marathon in Pittsburgh. Still, she finds time for fun.
Helpful Links
- Program Pathway
- Academic Catalog
- Business LibGuide
- Center for Business and Accounting
- What Can I Do With This Major?
Got Questions?
We're here to help. Contact us if you have questions.
Sheila Muller
Assistant Business Faculty/Chair of Department
Business Administration
978-556-3342
