Accounting

Tax Preparation Certificate

Photo: man at a desk with adding machine The Tax Preparation Certificate will provide you with a basic understanding of income tax law and income tax procedures for individuals. As part of the program, you'll prepare basic individual income tax returns for others. It can be completed in three quarters.

The Washington State Employment Security Department projects a 22% increase in the number of job openings in Washington State between 2004 and 2014. This program will prepare you for work in national "chain" tax preparation companies as well as CPA and accounting firms.

Earnings for tax preparers in Washington range from $9.60 to $22.74/hour. This position also offers the possibility of part-time or seasonal work for those who are interested in supplementing their income. Working as a tax preparer is also a great way to gain experience and fund additional education in accounting, business, finance or other fields.

Individuals or accounting, business or tax preparation professionals who want to learn more about tax preparation or specific tax topics are welcome to take individual courses that are part of our tax preparation certificate programs.

Curriculum
Course Number Required Courses Credit Hours
Total 15
ACCT255 Individual Income Tax 5
ACCT258 Practical Income Tax Preparation I 5
ACCT259 Practical Income Tax Preparation II 5

Total credits for certificate: 15

All course work must be completed at North Seattle Community College. Experiential Learning and transfer-in credits can not be applied to this certificate. All program requirements must fulfill a 2.0 GPA or above.

Throughout this program of study the importance of a responsible and professional work ethic is stressed. Factors leading to such a work ethic are identified and discussed. Instruction is also provided in effective leadership and how it enhances the work environment. Input from this program's industrial advisory committee is essential to curriculum content pertaining to the work ethic and leadership as well as the technically oriented curriculum.

Effective Fall 2008
Tax Preparation Certificate
52.0302 / 505F