The importance of accounting information systems in the accounting curricula: A CPA perspective.

ABSTRACT Research regarding accounting program curricula design has been extensive. While attention has been given to generic skills, the relative importance of specific functional skills has been lacking. The importance of accounting information systems (AIS) knowledge and skills has been assumed but rarely tested although it is an integral part of most accounting programs. Little attention has been given to the comparative value of AIS topics within the overall accounting curricula. In this study, 56 CPAs were surveyed to elicit opinions about the importance of individual accounting skills and determine the importance of AIS to the program. Responses support the value of AIS skills to practitioners and compare well to generic and other functional skill sets. Accounting educators will benefit from this research by gaining a new perspective on the importance of AIS within the overall accounting program and external stakeholders ranking of skills.