COURSE NUMBER: BA120-2

COURSE TITLE: Introduction to Financial Accounting

UNITS OF CREDIT: 3

INSTRUCTOR: Cerf

E-MAIL ADDRESS: acerf@haas.berkeley.edu

MEETING DAY(S)/TIME:  Wednesday/Friday 1-2 PM in C230 Cheit

PREREQUISITE(S): None

CLASMAT: Class format is lecture two hours per week and discussion session two hours per week.  Homework assignments are turned in weekly and there is a group project involving the analysis of a company's financial report.

ABSTRACT OF COURSE'S CONTENT AND OBJECTIVES:
The objective of the course is to provide you with an introduction to financial accounting and reporting.  The course, coupled with your hard work, is intended to teach you to read, understand, and analyze financial statements.  The course assumes you have no prior knowledge of accounting.  Although the course focuses on becoming users rather than producers of financial statements, you must develop a thorough understanding of the mechanics and procedures of the accounting process.  Emphasis will be placed on understanding the role of accounting information and in evaluating corporate financial performance.  In addition, you will gain an understanding of the limitations of financial reports and the need for alternative information sources.