Auditors, accountants wanted: Demand for accountants and auditors is projected to increase during the next decade partly because of the economy and new regulations, according to the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics. Idaho had 3,360 accountants and auditors in 2011, the bureau reports. AccountingEdu.org estimates that by 2018, Idaho will have about 4,297, an increase of 28 percent. The annual average salary for those jobs was $60,720 in Idaho, and $62,330 in the Treasure Valley, where the majority of accountants work.

Meeting the demand: Northwest Nazarene University, College of Western Idaho and Treasure Valley Community College have streamlined the educational process for students to earn an accounting degree. NNU formalized an articulation agreement with TVCC that gives students a clear path toward earning a bachelor’s degree in accounting and business administration. In 2011, an agreement was signed that allows CWI students to easily transfer to NNU and take advantage of its degree programs for traditional students and professionals seeking to advance their career. NNU added accounting to the agreement with CWI.

What it means for wannabe accountants: Students who earn an associate degree from CWI or TVCC will be granted junior standing at NNU and will be eligible to transfer up to 62 credits. These students will receive a waiver of all general education requirements with the following exceptions: THEO2100 Introduction to Christian Theology, an elective Bible literature or theology course, KINE1000 Fundamentals of Wellness, an approved capstone course, and one cross-cultural experience.

“Partnerships between colleges and universities such as these are necessary in making higher education accessible for students of all ages,” says NNU Vice President Burton Webb.

Statesman staff and a news release