AAS in Accounting (Chicago) | Career-Focused Accounting Degree – MCC

Associate of Applied Science in Accounting

Is Career Training Right for You?

Take the Career Quiz

Associate of Applied Science in Accounting


Calculator and accounting materials arranged on a desk, representing financial recordkeeping and accounting work
Accounting tools and financial materials in a professional workspace. 

What Does MCC’s Associate of Applied Science in Accounting Program Include?

Midwestern Career College’s Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Accounting prepares students for entry-level accounting and financial support roles. The program covers bookkeeping, financial recordkeeping, payroll, taxation, budgeting, auditing principles, accounting software, and related business applications. Students develop practical skills for organizing financial information, preparing reports, and supporting business operations.

How Long Is MCC’s Accounting Degree Program?

MCC’s Associate of Applied Science in Accounting is a two-year degree program consisting of 80 instructional weeks across five terms. The curriculum combines accounting and business coursework with practical applications designed to develop technical, analytical, and professional skills.

Is MCC’s Accounting Program Offered Online or on Campus?

MCC’s Accounting program is offered in a hybrid format through its Downtown Chicago campus. Hybrid instruction combines online coursework and virtual lectures with scheduled in-person learning activities, providing students with opportunities to develop accounting and business skills through different instructional formats.

What Careers Can Graduates of MCC’s Accounting Program Pursue?

Graduates may pursue entry-level opportunities in bookkeeping, accounting support, payroll administration, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and other financial or administrative functions. Employment opportunities may be available in businesses, nonprofit organizations, accounting offices, and other workplaces. Some professional accountant and auditor positions typically require additional education, such as a bachelor’s degree.


Program Objectives

The Associate of Applied Science in Accounting program prepares students to:

  • Apply accounting knowledge in taxation, payroll, budgeting, and auditing.
  • Perform core accounting and bookkeeping functions.
  • Use critical thinking and analytical problem-solving in financial environments.
  • Utilize accounting software and business applications to generate reports.
  • Work effectively as part of a professional team.
  • Understand principles of managing self, others, and organizations.


Is an AAS in Accounting Program Right for You?

Take the Midwestern Career College AAS in Accounting Readiness Quiz

Identify your goals, strengths, and career direction so you can make an informed decision about your future. The quiz takes just a few minutes.

Get Your Career Training Readiness Score Now!


What Do Accounting and Bookkeeping Professionals Do?

Accounting and bookkeeping professionals help organizations maintain accurate financial records and support day-to-day financial operations. Responsibilities vary by role, employer, and level of education or professional experience. Common activities include:

  • Maintaining and updating financial records and accounting systems.
  • Organizing invoices, receipts, and other financial documentation.
  • Recording financial transactions and reconciling accounts.
  • Supporting accounts payable, accounts receivable, and payroll processes.
  • Preparing reports and organizing information for financial review.
  • Using spreadsheets and accounting software to maintain business records.
  • Assisting with budgeting, taxation, and auditing support activities.
  • Identifying discrepancies and helping ensure accurate recordkeeping.

More advanced accounting and auditing responsibilities may require additional education, credentials, or professional experience.


Program Information

Campus:Study format:Start date:
Chicago, IL Downtown CampusHybrid01/19/2027
Program Length: 2 Years (80 Instructional Weeks/5 Terms)

MCC’s hybrid programs combine online coursework, virtual lectures, and scheduled in-person learning activities to provide flexibility for students.

Career Overview: Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks

This CareerOneStop video, from the U.S. Department of Labor, introduces the everyday responsibilities, work environments, and skills associated with bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerk occupations.

Certifications

MCC’s Associate of Applied Science in Accounting program develops Microsoft Office and business software skills relevant to the following Microsoft certification pathways:

  • Microsoft Excel Associate (Microsoft 365 Apps)
  • Microsoft Excel Expert (Microsoft 365 Apps)
  • Microsoft Word Expert (Microsoft 365 Apps)
  • Microsoft PowerPoint Associate (Microsoft 365 Apps)

Professional certifications are awarded by their respective credentialing organizations and are subject to applicable examination and eligibility requirements.

Practical Accounting Experience

Applying accounting knowledge in professional environments can help students reinforce classroom learning. Depending on program requirements and individual opportunities, practical experience may include accounting projects, workplace assignments, or appropriately authorized training activities.

Practical applications can help students:

  • Develop professional and workplace skills.
  • Reinforce concepts introduced through coursework and case studies.
  • Apply accounting and business software knowledge to realistic tasks.
  • Build experience relevant to entry-level financial support roles.

Students should consult MCC for information about any available practical training arrangements and applicable requirements.

Career Outlook

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of accountants and auditors is projected to grow by 5% from 2025 to 2035, faster than the average of approximately 3% for all occupations.

This projection describes accountants and auditors, many of whom hold bachelor’s degrees. Graduates of MCC’s AAS in Accounting may also consider bookkeeping, accounting clerk, and related financial support roles, which have different occupational outlooks and educational requirements.

The U.S. Department of Labor’s CareerOneStop also provides occupational and employment information for accountants and auditors.

Projected Job Growth for Accountants and Auditors (2025–2035)

 
All Occupations
~3%
 
Accountants and Auditors
5%

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Accountants and Auditors, employment projections for 2025–2035.

Disclosures

More on the Associate of Applied Science in Accounting


Inside MCC: Student Life, Skills, and Career Stories

Midwestern Career College shares student stories, program highlights, campus updates, career content, and college news across our official social media channels. Explore our latest content and follow MCC on the platforms you use most.

Official MCC channels: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

Return to Top

Admissions Contact Info

Admissions

203 N. LaSalle St.
Chicago, IL 60601

312-236-9000 ext. 1
admissions@mccollege.edu

 

International Admissions

100 South Wacker Drive, LL 1-50
Chicago, IL 60606

312-236-9000 ext. 2
international@mccollege.edu

 

Hours:

Mon – Thu 9:00A.M. – 6:00P.M.

Fri 9:00A.M. – 4:00P.M.

 

 

Request Info

request information

Accessibility Toolbar

Midwestern Career College
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognizing you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.