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Nikki Winston, CPA
In this 1-hour long project-based course, you will access and evaluate financial statements of publicly traded companies and learn how financial statement users rely on this information to make lending, regulatory, and investing decisions.
You’ll also perform common accounting tasks like creating journal entries and producing financial statements.
Note: This course works best for learners who are based in the North America region. We’re currently working on providing the same experience in other regions.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/nuzffq/financial
What's inside
Syllabus
Project Overview
By the end of this project, you will be able to perform basic accounting functions like creating journal entries and analyzing financial statements. You will also understand the importance of financial reporting to external parties and how to use accounting standards to support financial reporting.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Uses specialized terminology, including but not limited to: journal entries, financial reporting, and accounting standards
Develops accounting functions, which are core skills for finance and accounting roles
Outlines the use of accounting standards in financial reporting
Focuses on financial reporting for external parties
Examines accounting functions, which are highly relevant to financial statement analysis
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Save Financial Accounting Explained to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Reviews summary
Financial accounting concepts made clear
Learners say this course makes financial accounting concepts easy to understand. This course teaches learners how to read 10-k reports and financial statements of public companies in order to understand their financial standing. Its engaging content and clear explanations have earned this course largely positive reviews.
Course content is highly engaging.
"Great content"
Concepts are made easy to understand.
"A very simple and very explained course"
"easy understanding"
Course is not challenging.
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Financial Accounting Explained with these
activities:
Review notes and materials from previous courses
Show steps
Refresh your knowledge of fundamental financial concepts by reviewing notes and materials from previous courses or textbooks.
Browse courses on
Financial Accounting
Show steps
-
Gather notes and materials from previous courses or textbooks.
-
Review the material and focus on key concepts.
Start a personal finance project
Show steps
Improve your understanding of personal finance by starting a project to manage your finances, create a budget, or set financial goals.
Browse courses on
Personal Finance
Show steps
-
Research personal finance strategies and techniques.
-
Create a budget and track your expenses.
-
Set financial goals and create a plan to achieve them.
Review CFA curriculum material
Show steps
Become familiar with topics in the course by reviewing the materials covered in the CFA curriculum.
View
2025 CFA Program Curriculum Level II Box Set
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Download and read the CFA curriculum materials.
-
Take notes on the key concepts and formulas.
-
Practice solving problems related to the topics.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Follow online tutorials on accounting
Show steps
Supplement your learning by following online tutorials that provide step-by-step guidance on accounting concepts and procedures.
Browse courses on
Accounting
Show steps
-
Identify online tutorials that cover topics relevant to the course.
-
Watch the tutorials and take notes.
-
Complete any practice exercises or assignments provided in the tutorials.
Join a study group for the course
Show steps
Enhance your learning experience by joining a study group where you can discuss course material, share ideas, and collaborate with peers.
Show steps
-
Reach out to classmates and form a study group.
-
Schedule regular meetings.
-
Discuss course material, assignments, and projects.
Solve practice problems on financial analysis
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of financial analysis concepts by solving practice problems covering various topics.
Browse courses on
Financial Analysis
Show steps
-
Gather a collection of practice problems from textbooks, online resources, or study guides.
-
Dedicate time to solving the problems regularly.
-
Review your solutions and identify areas where you need improvement.
Attend a workshop on financial statement analysis
Show steps
Supplement your understanding of financial statement analysis by attending a workshop that provides hands-on practice and expert guidance.
Browse courses on
Financial Statement Analysis
Show steps
-
Identify and register for a workshop on financial statement analysis.
-
Attend the workshop and actively participate in the activities.
-
Apply the concepts learned in the workshop to your coursework.
Create a financial model for a company
Show steps
Apply the concepts of financial analysis to a real-world scenario by creating a financial model for a company.
Browse courses on
Financial Modeling
Show steps
-
Select a company and gather financial data.
-
Build a financial model using a spreadsheet software.
-
Use the model to make financial projections and analyze investment opportunities.
Create a presentation on a financial topic
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of a financial topic by researching it thoroughly and creating a presentation to share your knowledge.
Browse courses on
Financial Markets
Show steps
-
Choose a financial topic that interests you.
-
Research and gather information on the topic.
-
Create slides for your presentation.
-
Rehearse and present your presentation.
Review notes and materials from previous courses
Show steps
Refresh your knowledge of fundamental financial concepts by reviewing notes and materials from previous courses or textbooks.
Browse courses on
Financial Accounting
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather notes and materials from previous courses or textbooks.
- Review the material and focus on key concepts.
Start a personal finance project
Show steps
Improve your understanding of personal finance by starting a project to manage your finances, create a budget, or set financial goals.
Browse courses on
Personal Finance
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research personal finance strategies and techniques.
- Create a budget and track your expenses.
- Set financial goals and create a plan to achieve them.
Review CFA curriculum material
Show steps
Become familiar with topics in the course by reviewing the materials covered in the CFA curriculum.
View
2025 CFA Program Curriculum Level II Box Set
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Download and read the CFA curriculum materials.
- Take notes on the key concepts and formulas.
- Practice solving problems related to the topics.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Follow online tutorials on accounting
Show steps
Supplement your learning by following online tutorials that provide step-by-step guidance on accounting concepts and procedures.
Browse courses on
Accounting
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify online tutorials that cover topics relevant to the course.
- Watch the tutorials and take notes.
- Complete any practice exercises or assignments provided in the tutorials.
Join a study group for the course
Show steps
Enhance your learning experience by joining a study group where you can discuss course material, share ideas, and collaborate with peers.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Reach out to classmates and form a study group.
- Schedule regular meetings.
- Discuss course material, assignments, and projects.
Solve practice problems on financial analysis
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of financial analysis concepts by solving practice problems covering various topics.
Browse courses on
Financial Analysis
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather a collection of practice problems from textbooks, online resources, or study guides.
- Dedicate time to solving the problems regularly.
- Review your solutions and identify areas where you need improvement.
Attend a workshop on financial statement analysis
Show steps
Supplement your understanding of financial statement analysis by attending a workshop that provides hands-on practice and expert guidance.
Browse courses on
Financial Statement Analysis
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify and register for a workshop on financial statement analysis.
- Attend the workshop and actively participate in the activities.
- Apply the concepts learned in the workshop to your coursework.
Create a financial model for a company
Show steps
Apply the concepts of financial analysis to a real-world scenario by creating a financial model for a company.
Browse courses on
Financial Modeling
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Select a company and gather financial data.
- Build a financial model using a spreadsheet software.
- Use the model to make financial projections and analyze investment opportunities.
Create a presentation on a financial topic
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of a financial topic by researching it thoroughly and creating a presentation to share your knowledge.
Browse courses on
Financial Markets
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a financial topic that interests you.
- Research and gather information on the topic.
- Create slides for your presentation.
- Rehearse and present your presentation.
Career center
Learners who complete Financial Accounting Explained will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Chief Financial Officer
Chief Financial Officer
Chief financial officers (CFOs) are responsible for the financial health of an organization. They oversee all financial operations, including financial planning, budgeting, and investment. This course may be useful for CFOs as it provides a comprehensive overview of financial accounting and financial reporting. It includes instruction on how to prepare financial statements and how to analyze and interpret financial data.
Securities Analyst
Securities Analyst
Securities analysts research and evaluate stocks, bonds, and other financial instruments. They provide recommendations to clients on whether to buy, sell, or hold specific securities. This course may be useful for learners who are interested in pursuing a career as a securities analyst, as it provides a strong foundation in financial statement analysis and valuation techniques.
Financial Controller
Financial Controller
Financial controllers oversee the financial operations of an organization and ensure that financial records are accurate and compliant with regulations. This course may be useful for financial controllers as they must be able to produce and analyze financial statements, and understand the latest accounting standards.
Budget Analyst
Budget Analyst
Budget analysts develop and manage budgets for government agencies and non-profit organizations. They analyze financial data to identify areas where spending can be reduced or efficiency can be improved. Additionally, budget analysts assist in the preparation of financial reports and presentations. This course may be useful for budget analysts as it provides a foundation in financial accounting and budgeting. It includes instruction on how to prepare and analyze financial statements and how to develop and manage budgets.
Financial Manager
Financial Manager
Financial managers oversee the financial operations of companies. They develop and implement financial plans, manage budgets, and make investment decisions. This course may be useful for learners who are interested in pursuing a career as a financial manager, as it provides insights into the preparation of financial statements and the use of accounting standards.
Compliance Officer
Compliance Officer
Compliance officers ensure that organizations comply with all applicable laws and regulations. They develop and implement compliance programs and monitor operations to ensure adherence. Additionally, compliance officers investigate potential violations and report findings to management. This course may be useful for compliance officers as it provides a foundation in financial accounting and regulatory compliance. It includes instruction on how to prepare and analyze financial statements and how to identify and mitigate compliance risks.
Investment Banker
Investment Banker
Investment bankers advise companies on mergers, acquisitions, and other financial transactions. They also help companies raise capital through the issuance of debt or equity securities. This course may be useful for learners who are interested in pursuing a career as an investment banker, as it provides an understanding of financial statements and their use in making investment decisions.
Portfolio Manager
Portfolio Manager
Portfolio managers make investment decisions for individuals or institutions. They manage investment portfolios according to specific objectives, such as maximizing returns or minimizing risk. This course may be useful for learners who are interested in pursuing a career as a portfolio manager, as it provides knowledge of financial statement analysis and investment strategies.
Financial Analyst
Financial Analyst
Financial analysts research and evaluate investments, and provide recommendations to clients based on their findings. They may also manage investment portfolios for individuals or institutions. This course may be useful for learners who are interested in pursuing a career as a financial analyst, as it provides foundational knowledge of financial reporting and analysis.
Tax Accountant
Tax Accountant
Tax accountants prepare tax returns for individuals and businesses. They also advise clients on tax-related matters and help them develop tax strategies. This course may be useful for learners who are interested in pursuing a career as a tax accountant, as it provides knowledge of tax laws and regulations and how to apply them to financial data.
Registered Representative
Registered Representative
Registered representatives sell financial products and services to clients. They may work for broker-dealers, banks, or insurance companies. This course may be useful for learners who are interested in pursuing a career as a registered representative, as it provides an understanding of financial products and their use in investment strategies.
Auditor
Auditor
Auditors are professionals who perform audits on companies to ensure that their financial records are accurate and compliant with regulations. This course may be helpful for learners who are interested in pursuing a career as an auditor, as it discusses how to evaluate financial statements of publicly traded companies. Auditors must be able to identify and assess risks, as well as understand the latest accounting standards.
Loan Officer
Loan Officer
Loan officers evaluate loan applications and make lending decisions. They also work with borrowers to develop repayment plans and manage loan portfolios. This course may be useful for learners who are interested in pursuing a career as a loan officer, as it discusses how to analyze financial statements and assess the creditworthiness of potential borrowers.
Management Consultant
Management Consultant
Management consultants help businesses improve their operations and achieve their goals. They may work on a variety of projects, including strategic planning, process improvement, and financial analysis. This course may be useful for learners who are interested in pursuing a career as a management consultant, as it provides skills in analyzing financial data and making recommendations to improve business performance.
Accountant
Accountant
Accountants produce and analyze financial statements, review financial operations, and prepare tax returns. Their work is valuable across many industries and sectors. Accountants commonly hold positions as staff accountants, senior accountants, and accounting managers. This course may be useful as it teaches how to create journal entries and analyze financial statements. Furthermore, having this knowledge can help build a foundation for learners who plan to pursue a career as an accountant or a related field.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/nuzffq/financial
Reading list
We've selected 11 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Financial Accounting Explained.
Provides a theoretical overview of accounting and is often used as a reference tool by accounting professionals. It would be a valuable resource for students who are looking to gain a deeper understanding of the theoretical underpinnings of accounting.
Provides a comprehensive overview of financial markets and is written in a clear and engaging manner. It would be a valuable resource for students who are looking to gain a better understanding of the financial markets.
Provides a comprehensive overview of IFRS and is written in a clear and concise manner. It would be a valuable resource for students who are looking to gain a deeper understanding of IFRS.
Provides a comprehensive overview of financial accounting and reporting and is commonly used as a textbook at academic institutions. It would be a valuable resource for students who are looking to gain a deeper understanding of financial accounting and reporting.
Provides a comprehensive overview of accounting principles and is commonly used as a textbook at academic institutions. It would be a valuable resource for students who are looking to gain a deeper understanding of accounting principles.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the auditing process and is commonly used as a textbook at academic institutions. It would be a valuable resource for students who are looking to gain a deeper understanding of auditing.
Provides a comprehensive overview of cost accounting and is commonly used as a textbook at academic institutions. It would be a valuable resource for students who are looking to gain a deeper understanding of cost accounting.
Provides a comprehensive overview of financial management and is commonly used as a textbook at academic institutions. It would be a valuable resource for students who are looking to gain a deeper understanding of financial management.
Provides a comprehensive overview of investments and is commonly used as a textbook at academic institutions. It would be a valuable resource for students who are looking to gain a deeper understanding of investments.
Provides a timeless guide to investing and is considered one of the most important books on the subject ever written. It would be a valuable resource for students who are looking to gain a deeper understanding of investing.
Provides a comprehensive overview of security analysis and is considered one of the most important books on the subject ever written. It would be a valuable resource for students who are looking to gain a deeper understanding of security analysis.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/nuzffq/financial
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Effort
About one hour
Level
Intermediate
Via
Coursera
Institution
Coursera Project Network
Instructor
Nikki Winston, CPA
Language
English
Good to know
Uses specialized terminology, including but not limited to: journal entries, financial reporting, and accounting standards
Develops accounting functions, which are core skills for finance and accounting roles
Outlines the use of accounting standards in financial reporting
Focuses on financial reporting for external parties
Examines accounting functions, which are highly relevant to financial statement analysis
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