SCACPA, BNA CPAs, Fort Mill School District and Winthrop University Launch Innovative Dual Enrollment Program for Aspiring Accountants (07/02/24)

July 02, 2024

HIGHLIGHTS

• This fall, Fort Mill School District's inaugural class of 10 ambitious students will delve into the foundational aspects of accounting via the dual credit course, ACCT 280: Introduction to Financial Accounting at Winthrop.
• SCACPA and BNA CPAs are generously funding tuition and textbook fees for high school students enrolled in this pilot program.

ROCK HILL, SOUTH CAROLINA -- The South Carolina Association of Certified Public Accountants (SCACPA), the South Carolina Association of Certified Public Accountants Educational Fund, BNA CPAs and Winthrop University's College of Business and Technology have teamed up to offer a dual credit accounting program that will serve high school students in Fort Mill School District (FMSD).

The new initiative promises to cultivate a sustainable talent pipeline in the accounting profession by offering a head start to students on their professional accounting journeys.

This fall, Fort Mill School District's inaugural class of 10 ambitious students will delve into the foundational aspects of accounting via the dual credit course, ACCT 280: Introduction to Financial Accounting at Winthrop. However, the learning extends beyond the classroom! Students will explore the diverse career paths available in accounting through class visits by local accounting firms and CPAs.

"We're excited to give our students a head start with this new dual credit accounting program," said Fort Mill School District Superintendent James Epps. "It's a fantastic way for them to earn college credits while still in high school and get a real feel for the accounting world. Partnering with SCACPA, BNA CPAs and Winthrop University is a great opportunity for our students, and we can't wait to see them succeed."

SCACPA leadership notes how the program blends academic theory with practical experience, providing students a unique vantage point at the outset of their careers. Through the dual credit structure, participating high school students can immerse themselves in the world of accounting while simultaneously earning high school and college credits that can transfer to most higher education institutions in South Carolina and the United States, and satisfy introductory accounting course requirements. As part of the FMSD Career and Technical Education (CTE) Program, high school students in the Accounting CTE program who successfully complete dual credit ACCT 280: Introduction to Financial Accounting will be considered completers and are eligible to wear a special cord at graduation.

"At SCACPA, we believe the solution to building a sustainable pipeline requires a multi-pronged and innovative approach, working to influence students at every level," said Chris Jenkins, SCACPA CEO. "We are proud to financially support this program and anticipate fostering deeper engagement."

As Jenkins notes, SCACPA and BNA CPAs are generously funding tuition and textbook fees for high school students enrolled in this pilot program.

"At BNA, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of accounting professionals by providing them with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed," said Bernie Ackerman of BNA CPAs & Advisors. "This partnership exemplifies our dedication to education and community development. We are thrilled to support this innovative dual enrollment program, which will not only equip students with valuable skills but also inspire a passion for the accounting profession. We look forward to witnessing the positive impact this initiative will have on these students' futures and the accounting field as a whole."

"By combining cutting-edge classroom instruction with experiential learning opportunities, we are leading the way towards developing the next generation of successful CPAs," said Adriana Cordis, accounting professor and chair of the Department of Accounting, Finance and Economics. "We are extremely thankful to SCACPA and BNA CPAs for their generous support and are looking forward to a successful and enduring partnership."

Plans are already in motion to expand the program.

How to Get Involved

For more information on Winthrop's Dual Credit program, visit the website or contact Erica Panton via 803/323-4741.

For volunteering and speaking opportunities, and to learn more about Winthrop's accounting program, visit the website or contact Cordis via email at [email protected] or by calling 803/323-4622.