Course Description
An introduction to the professional ethics rules applicable to the practice of accountancy in the United States. Students will explore AICPA, SEC, PCAOB, and IRS ethical rules applicable to the practice of public accounting, including auditor independence.
Athena Title
Professional Ethics
Semester Course Offered
Offered fall and spring
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
- Gain knowledge and experience in identifying ethical conflicts encountered by accountants in practice. - Apply ethical analysis and decision-making tailored to accounting case studies and fact patterns. - Recognize the structure and content of key regulatory guidance impacting the practice of accountancy in the United States. - Understand the importance of independence, when it is required, and its application to non-attest services. - Recall the IRS and AICPA ethical requirements applicable to tax services.
Topical Outline
- Analyzing Ethical Matters - AICPA Code of Professional Ethics - AICPA Conceptual Framework and Specified Conclusions - AICPA Conceptual Framework and Acts Discreditable to the Profession - AICPA Independence - SEC and PCAOB Independence Rules - Business Relationships with Audit Clients - SEC – Non-audit Services - SEC – The Role of the Audit Committee - Independence Rules of Other Regulators - Statement on Standards for Tax Services - Internal Revenue Service - Ethics and Regulation - Tax Return Preparers - Regulations and Penalties - Penalties and Sanctions Applicable to Accountants - A Who's Who of Guilty, Not So Guilty, and Enablers - Recent Ethical Actions
Syllabus