Accounting for Non-Accountants

In today's data-driven business world, professionals across all functions must understand financial information to contribute effectively to decision-making and organizational success. This course equips non-accountants with the essential tools of accounting, empowering them to grasp financial statements, comprehend the impact of business activities, and communicate more effectively with finance teams.

• Understand the principles and structure of the accounting cycle under IFRS.
• Apply double-entry bookkeeping and record financial transactions accurately.
• Analyze and interpret the main financial statements for informed business decisions.
• Identify key adjustments in financial reporting, including accruals and depreciation.
• Distinguish between different accounting standards (IFRS vs. GAAP) and their implications.

• Department Managers and Supervisors
• Non-Finance Professionals in Sales, Operations, or HR
• Junior Finance Staff transitioning to broader roles
• Business Owners or Entrepreneurs

Module 1: Introduction to Accounting and Financial Statements

• What is accounting?
• Users of accounting information
• Overview of the four basic financial statements
• The corporate structure and financial reporting
• Business entity formats and accounting presentation

Module 2: International Accounting Standards

• Introduction to IFRS
• IFRS vs. US GAAP: Key differences
• Importance of global standards

Module 3: Double-Entry Bookkeeping Fundamentals

• The accounting equation
• Structure of double-entry system
• Understanding the chart of accounts
• Practical examples of entries

Module 4: The Recording Process

• General journal and ledger
• Trial balance construction
• Automation in bookkeeping systems

Module 5: Income Statement Components

• Defining revenues and recognition criteria
• Expense classifications
• Calculating net profit and equity
• Understanding capital stock and dividends

Module 6: Balance Sheet Fundamentals

• Structure and components of the balance sheet
• Classification of assets and liabilities
• Equity section explained
• Sample balance sheet interpretation

Module 7: Statement of Cash Flows

• Purpose and components of the cash flow statement
• Operating, investing, and financing activities
• Interpreting cash flow data

Module 8: Financial Statement Adjustments

• Accrual accounting concepts
• Prepayments, depreciation, and bad debts
• Provisions and contingent liabilities

Module 9: Integrated Financial Analysis

• Linking income statement, balance sheet, and cash flows
• Ratio analysis basics
• Evaluating business performance

Module 10: Review and Assessment

• Interactive case study analysis
• Group discussion and scenario exercises
• Final quiz and wrap-up discussion

The course combines various teaching methods, including instructor-led presentations, group discussions, case study analyses, and assessments through quizzes and a final exam to engage participants and ensure they understand and retain the material.