An Integrative Approach to Teaching Advanced Cost Accounting

Abstract

This paper discusses an approach for an undergraduate advanced cost accounting course that is based on a model which integrates both the American Assembly of Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) required topics and areas of knowledge from the liberal arts core, business core and technical (accounting) core. The paper also describes the current state of advanced cost accounting courses in AACSB-accredited accounting programs. The survey results suggest, not only that there is an increasing preference to offer a second cost accounting course, but that the integration of knowledge is a primary reason for including such a course in the curriculum. Additionally, the paper illustrates teaching strategies and project examples that may be useful to accounting departments currently modifying course curricula and to cost accounting instructors desiring a more versatile cost accounting curriculum.