Elevating the Value of Variance Analysis

This course tackles the question: Is it ethical to “manage” the earnings number – that is, to use legitimate discretion in the preparation of the financial statements to manage the numbers in a way that serves the interests of the manager independent of whether it serves the interest of the firm’s owners? We begin by creating an ethical framework based on the professional code of ethics. We then cover the what, why, how and when of earnings management behavior, describing and illustrating the variety of ways in which managers use their discretion in operating, investing, financing, and reporting decisions to influence the financial reports. In the vast majority of these cases, we rely on real-world examples, taken from publicly-available financial statements that received unqualified audit opinions. For the various categories of earnings management, we consider how they can be evaluated within the ethical framework we established in the beginning of the course. The result is an informed and thoughtful approach to assessing whether a given earnings management practice is consistent with professional ethics, a valuable tool whether you are an external auditor reviewing a set of statements, a preparer of the statements, or an outsider attempting to determine the usefulness of the statements. Worth 3 Technical CPE Credits (CPA/NASBA)

UPDATED 2024: In this course, you will intern with Central Products’ HR Manager to explore different facets of the Human Resources profession. A wonderful review of the fundamentals or an overview for first-time learners, this course covers everything from legal issues and behavioral ethics to motivating leadership and team-building. You will familiarize yourself with the hiring process, from pre-employment through retirement or termination, and assist Anne Chavez as she navigates through everyday HR issues like globalization, unions, and OSHA regulations. Course Type: Business Simulation. Worth 28.5 PDCs (SHRM) and 26 CEUs (HRCI General Credits).

This course is course 7 in the 8 - course series on Financial Reporting and Analysis offered by PRATTedu. It is comprised of 3 videos, covering investments in equity securities (including mark-to-market accounting, equity method and consolidations) ; property, plant and equipment; and intangible assets. The financial statements and the footnotes of the companies featured in this course include Walt Disney, 3M and Yahoo. Course Type: Video. Worth 2 Technical CPE Credits (CPA/NASBA).

UPDATED 2024: Forecasting is the basis for accurate plans, and in this course you will learn how to use quantitative methods to make predictions about various organizational trends. By implementing benchmarking and breakeven analysis to help with decision-making, you’ll cement your ability determine the best steps for the future of your organization. Course Type: Business Simulation. Worth 5 PDCs (SHRM) and 5 CEUs (HRCI Business Credits).