PurdueX: Business Accounting Basics

PurdueX: Business Accounting Basics

by Purdue University

Business Accounting Basics

Offered by PurdueX

Course Description

"Business Accounting Basics" is an introductory-level course designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of fundamental accounting principles and financial tools essential for business success. This course is perfect for entrepreneurs, investors, and anyone interested in enhancing their financial literacy.

What You'll Learn

  • Essential accounting terminology and concepts
  • In-depth understanding of the four basic financial statements
  • Building blocks of financial accounting
  • Various accounting cycles in business operations
  • Advanced analytical tools such as break-even analysis, target profit analysis, and degree of operating leverage
  • Skills to evaluate companies for investment decisions
  • Techniques to project profitability and analyze costs

Prerequisites

  • Basic mathematical concepts
  • Some algebra knowledge

Course Content

  • Income Statement
  • Balance Sheet
  • Statement of Retained Earnings
  • Statement of Cash Flows
  • Accounting cycles and their role in creating financial statements
  • Financial analysis tools and techniques
  • Investment decision-making processes
  • Cost analysis and profitability projections

Who This Course is For

  • Aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners
  • Individuals managing personal investments or 401k plans
  • Students pursuing business or finance-related degrees
  • Professionals seeking to enhance their financial acumen
  • Anyone interested in understanding company financials and making informed investment decisions

Real-World Applications

The skills acquired in this course have numerous practical applications:

  1. Entrepreneurs can make informed decisions about their business finances and growth strategies.
  2. Investors can better evaluate potential investment opportunities by analyzing financial statements.
  3. Employees can contribute more effectively to their company's financial discussions and decision-making processes.
  4. Individuals can manage their personal finances and retirement plans more efficiently.
  5. Students can build a strong foundation for further studies in finance, accounting, or business management.
  6. Professionals can advance their careers by demonstrating a solid understanding of financial concepts and analysis.

Course Syllabus

  1. Introduction to accounting terminology and concepts
  2. Overview of the four basic financial statements
  3. In-depth study of the Income Statement
  4. Understanding the Balance Sheet
  5. Exploring the Statement of Retained Earnings
  6. Analyzing the Statement of Cash Flows
  7. Building blocks of financial accounting
  8. Accounting cycles in business operations
  9. Break-even analysis and its applications
  10. Target profit analysis techniques
  11. Understanding and calculating the degree of operating leverage
  12. Financial statement analysis for investment decisions
  13. Projecting profitability and cost analysis
  14. Practical applications and case studies

This comprehensive course will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complex world of business finance, whether you're managing your own company or making informed investment decisions.

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