Accounting

Follow the money

It’s time to crunch the numbers and balance the books. Earn your 2-year degree or short-term certificate in the art and science of accounting to prepare and analyze financial data. With experience and education, you will be able to make informed business decisions and provide trusted counsel and expert services to clients of all types.

Why study Accounting with us?

We have programs designed for you, wherever you are on your career path. We even offer a professional accounting certificate for people who already have a bachelor’s degree (in any field) and would like to sit for the CPA exam. We prepare you for this challenging career with knowledge and field-specific skills. You learn from expert faculty members who have real-world experience, and you benefit from affordable tuition, financial aid options, numerous support services and small class sizes.

Options to fit your next goal

Your long-term goal may still be developing. Match your next goal to any of our affordable programs: 

  • Start working in the accounting field: Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) 
  • Transfer to earn your bachelor’s degree: Associate in Arts (A.A.) 
  • Sit for the CPA exam: Professional Accounting Certificate (after your bachelor’s)

While you study and consider your next steps, you receive opportunities for internships, part-time employment positions and full-time jobs with local businesses. These enhance your education and can lead to post-graduation opportunities.

Highlights

  • Financial Aid/Scholarships Available

    Based on need and/or achievement. Explore ways to pay for college.

  • Transfer Degree

    Save on your first 2 years and transfer your credits to the 4-year school of your choice.

  • Career Degree

    Earn an associate degree in 2 years and gain in-demand technical and job-ready skills.

  • Career Certificate

    Earn a career certificate in 1 year or less to refine your skills into an in-demand career.

Degrees & Certificates

For students planning to transfer to a 4-year college or university for a bachelor’s degree.

These programs are built around general education classes that lead to an associate degree designed to transfer to a 4-year school. CLC participates in the Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI) to ensure that approved courses will transfer to other participating colleges and universities. Transfer degrees typically take 2 years* to complete.

*Assumes full-time enrollment.

For students who want to start or shift to a new career or advance in their current career.

You can earn an Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree at CLC in 2 years*. Gain job-ready skills from experienced instructors and earn work-based experience from apprenticeships and internships. Some of the courses you’ll take earn college credit, which can transfer to a 4-year college or university toward a bachelor’s degree.

*Assumes full-time enrollment.

For students who want to earn job skills for entry level occupations, or level up in their career.

Certificates are designed to be completed in less than 2 years. Many certificate programs contain Career Degree core courses so you can continue with additional study or stack certificates to earn an A.A.S. degree.

Need help?

Your College & Career Navigator (CCN) is your "go-to person" ready to help you get started at CLC.

Your CCN guides you through the admission process, helps you choose your academic program, enroll in classes and connect you with resources.

Talk to a CCN



Turn any bachelor’s degree into a CPA

If you already have a bachelor’s degree, our Professional Accounting certificate program can help you meet the education requirements to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Learn more about these requirements and how we can help you complete them.

Courses in the program

Prepare for an accounting career with challenging classes and real-world experiences.

Meet our instructors

Experience the benefit of small class sizes and personalized instruction from your CLC instructors.



Take the next step...


Be debt-free at CLC

CLC has some of the lowest tuition around. Financial aid and scholarships are available—even for working adults.

Paying for college

Explore careers

Discover majors and career paths to complement and extend your intuitive interests and abilities.

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Request info

Your education is a big investment of your time, money and attention. Gather all the info you need.

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Get started

Start your application today—it’s free and easy to complete. When you’re ready, we’re ready to help you take the next step.

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