ROCK HILL, SOUTH CAROLINA -- The South Carolina Association of Certified Public Accountants (SCACPA) and Winthrop University’s College of Business Administration have created a dual enrollment accounting program serving high school students in the Lancaster County School District.
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.
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 enrollment structure, participating high school students can immerse themselves in the world of accounting while earning college credits that can transfer to most higher education institutions in South Carolina and the United States, and satisfy introductory accounting course requirements.
“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 S. Cordis, accounting professor and chair of Winthrop’s Department of Accounting, Finance, and Economics. “We are excited about this pilot program and hope our partnership will soon grow to include many more students.”
“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,” continued Chris Jenkins, SCACPA CEO. “We are proud to financially support this program and anticipate fostering deeper engagement.”
The inaugural class of nine ambitious Lancaster County students will delve into the foundational aspects of accounting via ACCT 280: Introduction to Financial Accounting. However, the learning extends beyond the classroom. Students will explore the diverse career paths available in accounting through class visits by volunteer CPAs and visits to local accounting firms.
Plans are already in motion to expand the program.
How to Get Involved
For more information on Winthrop’s accounting program, visit the website or contact Adriana Cordis via e-mail at cordisa@winthrop.edu or by calling 803/323-4622.
For volunteering and speaking opportunities, contact Katharine Keller, SCACPA’s director of member engagement and education, at kkeller@scacpa.org.
