Ethics in Accounting

The business scandals of recent years have highlighted the importance of ethical behavior in the accounting profession. This course covers the elements necessary to make proper ethical decisions by first defining what ethics are and then identifying the questions that need to be asked in everyday business practices. Key ethical standards specific to the accounting profession are explored, highlighting the unique role of the accountant both as "trusted advisor" to his/her client and the (often conflicting) role of "reporter" of financial information to the marketplace and governmental agencies. The course begins with a study of the earliest models of business ethics through today's professional requirements of the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct, the State Board of Accountancy and other regulatory agencies. Instruction includes writing assignments, classroom lectures and presentations based on assigned readings. Students leave this course with a better overall understanding of the challenges of ethical business practices.