What skills accounting students need: Evidence from students perceptions and professionals expectations

Abstract

Purpose- The aim of the study is to identify the skills that should be gained in accounting education according to the perceptions of students and the expectations of professional accountants and to determine whether there is a difference between the opinions of students and professionals. Methodology- A questionnaire which includes the skills to be gained in accounting education, was applied to the students in different departments where accounting education is given, at Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University. It was also applied to the accounting professionals registered to Canakkale Chamber of Certified Public Accountant. Findings- The results of the study revealed that there were differences between the opinions of students and professional accountants in 11 out of 30 skills that should be included in accounting education. Conclusion- Although there are similarities between students' perceptions and expectations of professionals, there are some differences. It would be appropriate to review and update the accounting education in line with the expectations considering these differences.