Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are the online courses different from the campus program?

The online courses are the same for distance learning students in regard to rigor, standards, and student accountability. Online students receive the same instruction and academic credit as their campus peers.

2. Is Auburn University accredited?

Auburn University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). Both the Harbert College of Business and the School of Accountancy are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).

3. How long does it usually take to complete the program?

Auburn University operates on a semester system. Depending on the course load taken, the Graduate Certificate program can be completed in as short as three semesters. The maximum number of classes taken for students working full-time is two courses per semester.

4. What is the average credit load per semester?

On average, students take three to six credit hours (two courses) per semester.

5. Do I have to come to campus?

No, there is no required residency for the Graduate Certificate in Accounting program.

6. What entrance examinations are required?

There are no entrance examinations required for the Graduate Certificate in Accounting program.

7. Is it possible to transfer credits?

Up to six semester hours of graduate credit taken in residence at another accredited graduate school may transfer to the Auburn University Master of Accountancy. Transfer credit is not allowed towards the Graduate Certificate in Accountancy. The credit must be acceptable to the Admissions Committee and the student's advisor and be pertinent to the student's plan of study. Transfer credit will be approved only with an official transcript. Courses with a grade lower than B will not be transferred.

8. Can I audit a class?

Auditing of online courses is not available at this time.

9. Will I have an academic advisor?

Andee Hodo, Assistant Director of Graduate and Online Accounting Programs, serves as the Academic Advisor for all graduate online accounting students. She will work with you on your plan of study, course registration and educational goals.

10. Can I withdraw or drop a course?

Should circumstances in your life change and you need to withdraw from a course, simply contact Andee Hodo at  (334) 844-6207 or andee.hodo@auburn.edu. Notifying the instructor or ceasing to accept class materials does not constitute official withdrawal. The Auburn University Academic Calendar contains important drop deadlines that must be carefully followed.

11. How do I take tests?

Each semester, you will identify your exam proctor on your "Contact and Proctor Form".  Your exam proctor must be someone within your employer who is at superior level or someone within your company's human resources, personnel, or training and development departments; or a proctor may be a local librarian, or a university/college testing services department may be contacted.

12. How do I contact my advisor, professor or peers?

Online students have immediate access to professors and classmates via e-mail once you are registered. 

13. How do I get my books?

Textbooks required for your course(s) may be ordered each semester by visiting www.aubookstore.com.

14. Will I have access to University resources?

Accessibility to all on-campus activities, libraries, etc., is available to you as an off-campus student upon verification of student ID. As an Auburn student, you are also eligible for athletic tickets (football, basketball, baseball, swimming, etc.) at student prices. Information is available through Auburn Access at https://auaccess.auburn.edu.

15. What are the technical requirements?

Access to a computer with a reliable Internet connection is required. Canvas runs on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android or any other device with a modern web browser. It is recommended that you use the newest version of your browser and the most up-to-date Flash plug-in.