Ethics in Accounting

Online

Whether you work in the public or private sector, possessing a deep understanding of the ethical standards and practices of accounting is essential. Through online lectures and instructor-led Q&As, you will learn how to identify and properly manage unethical accounting and taxation practices. Case studies and analysis of the different types of fraudulent accounting and taxation practices will also be explored to illustrate and foster deeper understanding of professional codes of conduct and their application in real-world situations. By the end of this course, you will possess the knowledge and skills to identify and apply ethics in the auditing, taxation and fiduciary professions.

Learning Outcomes

  • Evaluate and manage unethical accounting and taxation practices by organizations and individuals
  • Apply ethical standards per the State Board of Accountancy
  • Practice accounting through professional rules of conduct
  • Analyze unethical behavior including greed, fraud and corruption

Skills You Will Gain

  • Ethical principles and reasoning
  • Ethical frameworks
  • Analysis of fraud and corruption
Academic Units
4
Section Number
253ACC552
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

Enroll through January 18, 2026. Class begins on January 12, 2026. Access to your course in Canvas will be available one business day before the course’s start date.

If you anticipate needing any Disability Accommodations, please contact our Student Services representative PRIOR to enrolling in this course. The accommodations must be organized before starting the program. Please contact Tina Ehrke at (530) 757-8727 if you would like to register for a course and you have disability-related needs or concerns. https://cpe.ucdavis.edu/student-services/disabilities

Enrollment Policies

Drop requests (withdraw with a refund) will be approved, less a $30 processing fee, if the request is received by 1/26/2026. 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

Intermediate Accounting I

Intermediate Accounting II

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.