Accounting for Governmental and Nonprofit Organizations

Online

The unique characteristics of governmental and nonprofit organizations require different accounting skills and principles. Designed for students who work for or serve public agencies or nonprofit organizations, this course provides an introduction to the characteristics of governmental and nonprofit accounting, emphasizing various fund types and account groups. Through online lecture and instructor-led Q&A sessions, this course includes a review and evaluation of presently recommended accounting and financial reporting for state and local governmental units. This course also covers reporting policies that nonprofits need to adhere to in order to be in compliance with SB 1262. By the end of this course, you will understand both the theoretical and practical aspects of governmental and nonprofit accounting and will be able to apply those new skills in their day-to-day work.

Learning Outcomes

  • Compare the characteristics that distinguish governmental and not-for-profit entities from for-profit entities
  • Apply the key concepts and terms used in describing the governmental reporting entity
  • Identify and explain contemporary financial reporting issues
  • Utilize benchmarks and performance measures to evaluate NPOs
  • Prepare financial statements using SFAS No. 117

Skills You Will Gain

  • Fund accounting
  • Budgeting and control
  • Reporting, disclosure and financial analysis
  • Managing for Results
  • Auditing Governments and Not-for-Profit Organizations
Academic Units
4
Section Number
251ACC506
Instruction Method
Online class

Association Credits

American Institute of CPAs (CPE)
40.00 CPE hours

Section Notes

This course is a paced-asynchronous course, which means that all students will be proceeding through the course at the same time. The course consists of online materials, reading assignments, written assignments and discussion forums. The lessons open on a weekly basis throughout the duration of the class. The time it takes you to complete each lesson depends on your individual approach and learning style, but in a given week, students can generally expect to spend approximately:

  • 5-6 hours in online lectures and discussion forums
  • 5-6 hours of work outside of class on readings and assignments

Students can enroll through June 29, 2025. The course begins on June 23, 2025 and must be completed by September 14, 2025. Access to your course will begin one business day before the course’s start date. Refund deadline July 7, 2025. Refunds and/or enrollment transfers will not be approved after this date.

Required Material: Students will be notified about required course materials at least one month prior to the beginning of the course.

Enrollment Policies

Drop requests (withdraw with a refund) will be approved, less a $30 processing fee, if the request is received by 7/7/2025. Refunds and/or enrollment transfers will not be approved after this date. Click here (https://cpe.ucdavis.edu/student-services/withdrawals-refunds-transfers) to view complete enrollment policy information including details on withdrawals and transfers.  

Students have the first week of class to enroll with the understanding that students who enroll after the first day of class are expected to reach out to their instructors to make sure they receive all content and are on track with the course. 

Prerequisites

Principles of Financial Accounting.

Technical Requirements

To ensure your success in this course, please review our technical requirements page at online learning.

Discounts

Early Enroll Discount

Enroll 14 days before the course start date to save $50 on the course fee.

Info Session Discount

Attendees of UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education Information Sessions may be eligible for $100 discount on a class by entering the Coupon Code provided at the Information Session.  Contact UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education Student Services office, at (800) 752-0881, if you have questions about this discount.