ACCT 410x – Foundations of Accounting

Syllabus – Fall 2024

Section 14097R Monday and Wednesday 8:00 am to 9:50
am, 4.0 units
Location: ACC 236
Professor: Robert Buce
Office: ACC 214
E-mail: [email protected] (best way to contact me)
Office Hours: Monday and Wednesday 9:50am to 11:00am;
or by appointment in person or Zoom

ACCT 410’s FINAL WILL BE HELD ON Wednesday, December 11, 8-10am

NO FINAL EXAMS WILL BE GIVEN PRIOR TO THIS DATE; NO EXCEPTIONS

IMPORTANT DATES

First day of classes:

Monday, August 26, 2024
Last day to add:
Friday, September 13, 2024
Last day to change to Pass/No Pass:
Friday, September 13, 2024
Last day to drop without a mark of "W" and receive a refund:
Friday, September 13, 2024
Last day to withdraw without a “W” on transcript or change pass/no pass to letter grade:
Friday, October 11, 2024
Last day to drop with a mark of "W":
Friday, November 15, 2024
Last day of classes:
Friday, December 6, 2024
End of session:
Wednesday, December 18, 2024

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course provides an introduction to both financial and management accounting.

Accounting, in general, is a system that provides quantitative information for decision
making. Financial accounting systems summarize the events and transactions of
businesses for external users, such as banks and investors. Management accounting
systems summarize important phenomena for internal users, such as marketing
managers. The presentation will consist of moderately technical expositions of concepts
and material. The primary focus of the course will be on use, interpretation and analysis
of financial information, rather than its preparation.

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LEARNING OBJECTIVES
The overall goal of this course, as mentioned above is to introduce you to financial
accounting and management accounting. Supporting this goal are several specific
learning objectives and desired outcomes:

You will gain factual knowledge of important financial and management accounting
terminology, including, for example: asset, liability, equity, balance sheet, income
statement, statement of cash flows, net income, current ratio, accounts receivable,
inventory, revenue, cost of goods sold, FIFO, LIFO, fixed cost, variable cost, job order
costing, and activity-based costing.
-- The desired outcome for this objective is that you be able to define and describe these

terms. For example, you might be asked to define the term “asset” and give an example.
You will gain factual knowledge of the placement of various items in financial statements,
including, for example, net income, dividends paid, and operating cash flows. That is,
you should learn on which financial statements these items appear and where, if
applicable, or in which part of the annual report the item appears.

-- The desired outcome for this objective is that you be able to state where items appear in theannual
report. For example, you might be asked to state on which financial statement you would find
dividends paid.

You will learn fundamental financial and management accounting principles. For
example, you should learn the balance sheet equation; the effects of transactions and
events on asset, liability, and equity accounts; revenue and expense recognition
principles; effects of transactions and events on cash flows; various methods of
calculating inventory values and depreciation; the method for calculating breakeven
point; methods for calculating product costs; and so forth.

-- The desired outcome for this objective is that you be able to describe these principles. For example,
you might be asked whether a transaction increases or decreases a particular account’s balance.

You will learn to apply the above factual knowledge to novel situations. That is, you
should be able to apply the definitions and descriptions of important terms, and apply
your knowledge of placement of items in financial statements.

-- One desired outcome for this objective is that you be able to classify examples of concepts, and
locate items in annual reports. For example, you might be asked to determine whether aparticular
item is an asset or a liability (or neither), or locate dividends in a given set of financial
statements.

-- A second desired outcome for this objective is that you be able to critically read media articles
that use financial accounting and management accounting terms. For example, you might be asked

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to read an earnings release or article about a company’s performance and identify instances of
impression management.

You will learn to apply the above accounting principles to novel situations. For example,
you should be able to state (and/or calculate) the dollar effects of a particular
transaction (like purchase of materials on credit) on particular accounts like inventory
and accounts payable). As another example, you should also be able to calculate the
total cost of a manufactured product.

--The desired outcome for this objective is that you be able to calculate various accounting figures
(e.g., account balances, costs, etc.) using fundamental accounting principles. For example, you might
be told that a company borrowed funds from a bank and asked to record the dollar increases or
decreases to specific accounts caused by this transaction.

You will begin to learn how to read and critically analyze financial statements using the
above factual knowledge and principles. Specifically, using your understanding of
important terms, the effects of transactions and events on accounts, and the definition
and underpinnings of financial ratios, you should begin to be able to make assessments
of firms’ economic “health” and performance based on their financial statements .

-- The desired outcome for this objective is that you exhibit a rudimentary understanding of theuse of
financial ratios and other tools for analyzing financial statements. For example, you might be asked
which ratios are appropriate for assessing a firm’s solvency and be asked to compare and evaluate
two companies based on these ratios.

To achieve the above learning objectives, I will employ a combination of background

reading, videos, homework, interactive lecture, working problems during class sections
(individually, together as a class, and in groups), at-home quizzes, and exams. Research on
learning indicates that it is very difficult to gain anything more than a superficial
understanding of the material without practice and feedback, so this class incorporates a
substantial amount of both. Attending class sessions is very important to achieving these
learning objectives. It is extremely important to complete the reading assignment and homework
before class.

PREREQUISITES AND/OR RECOMMENDED PREPARATION

The course has no prerequisites and requires no special skills. The quantitative aspects
of the course require only elementary math skills, and you are allowed to use a
calculator.
This course is intended for those with limited or no prior business coursework. The
course is not open to students who have credit for other accounting courses, including
BUAD 280 and 281 (or a similar course at another 4-year university). This course
satisfies the requirement for the business minor (and for other departments’ majors);
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however, it cannot be used toward a degree in accounting or business. Students who
successfully complete the course are eligible to apply to the Leventhal School of
Accounting’s Masters programs.

REQUIRED MATERIALS

The following required text for this course is a custom text drawn from the following:
 Survey of Accounting (7th edition, ISBN:978-1-264-44297-3) by Thomas P.
Edmonds, McGraw Hill
 Managerial Accounting: Creating Value in a Dynamic Business Environment
(13th edition, ISBN: 978-1-264-10069-9) by Hilton, Ronald W., Platt, David E.,
McGraw Hill (2023).
This course will utilize course materials from McGraw Hill Connect. You are required
to purchase Connect access, which includes the eBook. In addition, only if desired, you
may purchase a loose-leaf version of the custom text.
If you desire to acquire Connect access/eBook AND a loose-leaf version of the text,
choose Option 1 below. This option provides a special bundled price of $85 for
Connect access/eBook AND the loose-leaf.
If you only want to purchase Connect access/eBook (no loose-leaf), choose Option 2
below (at a $70 discounted price). With Option 2 you will have the ability to upgrade
and purchase the loose-leaf for an additional $30.
Option 1: Instructions to Purchase Bundle of Connect/eBook AND Loose-Leaf Text for $85

Please use the following link and follow the directions provided (click on “add to cart” to
receive loose-leaf text):
https://www.mheducation.com/highered/custom/product/1266726462.html
This is a package of the loose-leaf book + access code for Connect. Please note, shipping
takes 5-8 business days. You do have 2 weeks free access to Connect from the start of class,
but please order early so you receive the book and code on time. Once received, KEEP THE
ACCESS CARD that comes with the book. You will then need to go to Connect to register
your access code.

Option 2: Instructions to Purchase Connect Access/eBook Only for $70

Purchase of Connect access/eBook is easily done from within BrightSpace. Below are
instructions:

Brightspace Student Registration Instructions: Video

If you need any help, contact McGraw Hill Support: 1-800-331-5094

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You will then be presented options to access Connect and the ebook.

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For students desiring additional access to a hard copy of the textbook, a copy may be
found in the library on the first floor of ACC.
There may also be readings from the business press or other sources, which I will post
on Brightspace should I find them relevant and topical.
This course will utilize Brightspace to post course materials such as PowerPoint slides,
muni-case studies, Reading Assignments, Homework Assignments administered by
McGraw Hill Connect, Team Project Instructions and Templates as well as Course
Announcements.
Technology requirements are different for each course. Marshall has site licenses for a
variety of software that students can access free of charge. A list of available software
is located at https://uscmsb.sharepoint.com/sites/IT/SitePages/Software.aspx If you
have any concerns about purchasing required software, please let me know. You are
responsible for ensuring that you have the necessary computer equipment and reliable
internet access. Students are invited to explore what lab or loaner options exist. Contact
the Marshall HelpDesk (213-740-3000 or [email protected]) if you need
assistance
You will find it helpful to have a simple calculator in class each day as we often will
work on problems during class sessions. Students should also plan to have either a
smartphone or laptop available for each class so as to complete the occasional live
survey.

COURSE NOTES
I will post slides and handouts to our class Brightspace site prior to class. In my
experience, some students prefer to learn during class by taking notes within the
electronic slides – thus, you are welcome to download the slides and use them during
class on your laptop or tablet. Alternatively, I have observed that some students prefer
to take notes “by hand.” You should choose the approach that works best for you.
Please make sure that you are able to access Brightspace after the first class. I will
generally communicate with you through Brightspace (which is connected to your USC
email account). Please make sure that you have your USC email forwarded to another
account if you do not check your USC email account frequently.

TIPS TO BE SUCCESSFUL

1. Treat the lecture videos like a traditional lecture and take notes. You will need to
review these notes before exams.
2. When taking post video assessment quizzes, seek to understand why an answer
is correct or incorrect. Same for homework problems. Don't just assume that you
understand if you get the question correct. After graded homework is submitted
you will be able to view feedback for each question. Read and make sure you
understand this feedback whether you got the question correct or not. You
should focus on understanding and not memorizing. There is a lot of material in
this course and it is not possible to memorize and be successful.
3. Practice, practice, practice. You must work problems to learn accounting. Take
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 the in-class and out-of-class post-assignments very seriously. It is highly
recommended that you work the post-assignment practice sets multiple times.
Like the quizzes, seek to understand why an answer is correct or incorrect.
4. Work on this class daily. Do not wait until the due date to complete assignments.
If you wait until the last minute you will be focused on completing the
assignment on-time and not on learning and understanding.
5. Watch the lectures and complete assignments in a quiet environment where you
are not rushed. You need time to re-watch videos and re-work problems.
6. Always review old material before starting new material. Remember this course
is cumulative. Reviewing often will ensure that you are prepared to learn the
new material. Come to class and bring questions. The class is an opportunity to
get all your questions answered and clear up any confusion. You will also get
the opportunity to help other students. Remember the best way to learn is to
teach.

GRADING AND ASSIGNMENT DETAIL

Your grade in this class will be determined by your relative performance on exams,
quizzes, in-class exercises, and the Team Project and other points as listed below:

Points % of
Grade

Reading Assignments 0 0%
Class Participation and Professionalism 50 5%
Connect Videos, Quizzes, Homework (200 200 20%
maximum out of 222 potential points)
Team Project 75 7.5%
Mid-Term Exam #1 225 22.5%
Mid-Term Exam #2 225 22.5%
Final Exam 225 22.5%
Total 1,000 100%

Final grades represent how you perform in the class relative to other students. Historically,
the average grade for this class is about a 3.3 (i.e., a “B+”). Three items are considered
when assigning a student’s final grade:

1. Your total point score as a percentage of the available points for all assignments and
exams (the points you receive divided by the number of points possible).
2. The overall average percentage score within the class.
3. Your ranking among all students in the class.

After each student’s total points are determined for the semester, letter grades will be
assigned according to the Marshall School of Business grading guidelines, which

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generally allows for grading on a curve. There will likely be a wide range of scores. As
such, a curve will work in your favor.

Assignments

Although no points will be awarded for completing reading assignments or videos, it is

highly recommended that student completed the reading assignments/videos prior to the
due dates to establish a foundational understanding of the material that will be taught during
lectures. For classes with pre-class videos, there is generally a quiz/assessment that is due
before the start of that class. For classes with reading assignments there is generally
assigned homework that is due before the start of the next class.

Please note, as documented in the Course Calendar, not every Learning Objective (LO) in
every chapter will be covered. Of course, students are encouraged to read each chapter in
full and/or complete all LO videos, however, only those Learning Objectives listed on the
Course Calendar/Schedule below are “Required”.

The Course Calendar lists the Reading/Video Assignments and due dates. In addition, for
convenience the reading assignments are posted on Brightspace in Assignments. If you
click on the assignment, it will take you to the textbook on McGraw Hill’s platform.

For classes that have Pre-class videos and assessments assigned, they will be taken on
Connect and are scored for accuracy. Unless I indicate otherwise, each assessment will
be due by 8:00pm the day before each class session where it is scheduled (see course
calendar later in this syllabus). These videos and assessments will be posted on
Brightspace shortly after the Wednesday class session the week before the class session
where the assessment is due, if not sooner. I strongly recommend that you begin the
assessment well before the due date/time to allow for any technical issues. You can
view your submission in the Brightspace gradebook, and it is your responsibility to
confirm that your quiz was validly received by Brightspace by the due date/time. Please
contact me ASAP if you experience any issues.

Class Participation and Professionalism

While no points will be awarded for class participation, numerous academic studies have
found that there is a direct, positive correlation between active student participation and
academic performance. Active, engaged and thoughtful participation will very likely be a
dramatic impact on your performance.

Each student begins the course with 50 Professionalism points. These points are the
student’s to keep or lose, based on (1) your thoughtful response to questions discussed in
class, (2) “classroom citizenship” including maintaining a professional classroom
environment, respectful relationships with teaching assistants, tutors, your fellow classmates
and me. Frequently missed classes, late arrivals or early departures, failure to attend Class
Project Team meetings, lack of communication or inappropriate behaviors or

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communication will be considered with regards to professionalism points. Ideally each
student will begin and end the course will all 50 professionalism points.

Classroom Policies

Active class participation is important in achieving the learning objectives for this course.
Unless students provide an accommodation letter from USC OSAS or from Marshall
detailing visa or travel restrictions, attendance and active participation is expected in the
classroom.

Any student with such accommodations should submit their accommodation document to
me as soon as possible.

Connect Homework Assignments

A maximum of 200 points out of a total of 222 potential points may be earned related to
Homework. Homework will be administered through the McGraw Hill Connect technology
platform. The Course Calendar lists the due dates for each homework assignments.
Assignments are due by 8:00 pm on the date listed on the Course Calendar.
Homework assignments will be auto-graded via Connect. Students will have two attempts
per assignment.

Students will have access to hints. Detailed feedback will be provided after submitting the
first and second attempt.

After submission of the first attempt students will be made aware of the portions of the
assignment that were completed correctly as well as any portions answered incorrectly.
(Green indicators for correct solutions or Red for incorrect solutions.) On the second
attempt, students only need to change those portions answered incorrectly on the first
attempt.

Note: Connect does offer a second attempt if a student’s first attempt is 100% correct.

The highest score across both attempts will be posted to Brightspace. However, it is
important to note that homework points WILL NOT be posted to Brightspace until a
link is established between Brightspace and the McGraw Hill Connect platform. To
establish the linkage, at least once during semester each student must click on a Homework
Assignments listed on Brightspace in “Assignments.”

While it is highly recommended that students complete ALL assigned Homework prior to
the due date, the 22-point difference between the total potential points and the maximum
that may be earned provides each student with the flexibility of missing the due date on at
least one assignment without incurring a penalty. Accordingly, Homework not completed
by the Due Date and Time will earn 0 points. No homework extension will be granted
regardless of the circumstance. PLEASE do not ask for a homework extension, NO
HOMEWORK EXTENSIONS WILL BE GRANTED.

Team Project
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The team project is designed to help you apply many of the concepts that you have learned
in class. You will receive more instructions on the Team Project requirements during class
and via Brightspace ahead of time. However below are a few important things to know.

Team Presentation
Each team will make an in-class presentation summarizing the findings and
conclusions. Every member of the team must be present. Every team member
should make a contribution to the project, even if not speaking.

Peer Evaluation/Assessments
It is critically important that ALL members of the Team contribute equally in all aspects
of the Team Project. At completion each student will complete a Peer
Evaluation/Assessment. The Peer Evaluation/Assessment provides a mechanism for
Team Members to provide feedback to the Professor and their Teammates regarding their
contributions to the effort. In my evaluation of you and the team I will thoughtfully
consider the information provided through the Peer Evaluation. My evaluation you and
your team performance will be based on (1) timely completion of all deliverables, (2)
following directions, (3) originality, thoughtfulness and quality of reasoning with respect
to your conclusions, (4) persuasiveness of your presentation and (5) your productive
contribution to the team. It is important to note that any student failing to submit the
Peer Evaluation/Assessment by the posted deadline will result in the loss of 5 points
per day up to 10 points.
Examinations
All three examinations will be administered in person within a classroom environment using
paper examinations. Accordingly, students must be physically present to take each examination.
Examination Administration Policy
All examinations will be “Closed Book and No Notes or Formula Cards”. Four function
calculator provided.
Midterms
There are two Midterms on the dates listed in the Course Calendar. Each Midterm is
worth 22.5% of total available course points.
Midterm Policies
 No Midterms will be given prior the date listed in the Course
Calendar
 No Make-up Midterms
 Failure to take a Midterm will result in 0 points being earned for that
Midterm.
 In the event that a student is unable to take Midterm #1 or Midterm #2
due to a documented medical emergency, the points associated with the
missed Midterm will be reallocated across the remaining Midterm and/or
Final. In the unlikely event of this situation, the Professor will provide
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 more specific information regarding the point reallocation methodology
that will be utilized.

Final
The Final Exam is worth 22.5% of total available course points. The Final is “partially
cumulative” covering the chapters previously tested on Midterms 1 and 2 and the
chapters covered after Midterm 2. Please refer to the Course Calendar below for the
specific chapters to be included.

Final will be held on Wednesday, December 11, 8-10am

Be advised that NO final will be given prior to December 11, 8-10am as listed on the
University’s Final Schedule. NO EXCEPTIONS. Per USC policy:

Attendance
Students are highly encouraged to attend all classes in person and to arrive prior to
commencement of the class. While attendance at 100% of the classes is required, student class
attendance is one of the criteria used to evaluate professionalism. In a professional business
environment recurring failure to attend standing meetings is considered unprofessional behavior.
Late Arrival to Class
When students arrive late to class, it disrupts the flow of a lecture or discussion, distracts other
students, impedes learning, and generally erodes class morale. Moreover, if left unchecked,
lateness can become chronic and spread throughout the class.
“Being late is not an accident. It is a choice.” People that are late are sending a signal to those
who have made an effort to be on time . . . “You aren't as important as I am.” Being late is not
only disrespectful. Frequent tardiness will result in the loss of Professionalism Points.

OTHER MATTERS

Collaboration Policy
Students are permitted and encouraged to discuss with others their ideas for completing
assignments; however, once a student begins writing the deliverable, all work must be individual
and independent. Students may not seek help from anyone outside the class, including but not
limited to former students of this course, friends and family, tutors, and online forums. Students
may consult course materials and web resources. Students may not post anything related to the
assignments online. Failure to abide by the above guidelines may constitute a case of suspected
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plagiarism or cheating, which will be reported and investigated. For more information about
unauthorized collaboration visit https://libraries.usc.edu/tutorial/academic-dishonesty or
http://lib-php.usc.edu/tutorials/academic-dishonesty/story_html5.html.
Appendix II contains the specific Penalties for Academic Integrity Violations.

Retention of Graded Coursework

Final exams and all other graded work which affected the course grade will be retained for one
year after the end of the course if the graded work has not been returned to the student. If graded
work is returned to you electronically, it is your responsibility to file it.

Course Content Distribution and Synchronous Session Recordings Policies

USC has policies that prohibit recording and distribution of any synchronous and asynchronous
course content outside of the learning environment.

Recording a university class without the express permission of the instructor and announcement
to the class, or unless conducted pursuant to an Office of Student Accessibility Services (OSAS)
accommodation. Recording can inhibit free discussion in the future, and thus infringe on the
academic freedom of other students as well as the instructor. (Living our Unifying Values: The
USC Student Handbook, page 13).

Distribution or use of notes, recordings, exams, or other intellectual property, based on university
classes or lectures without the express permission of the instructor for purposes other than
individual or group study. This includes but is not limited to providing materials for distribution
by services publishing course materials. This restriction on unauthorized use also applies to all
information, which had been distributed to students or in any way had been displayed for use in
relation to the class, whether obtained in class, via email, on the internet, or via any other media.
Distributing course material without the instructor’s permission will be presumed to be an
intentional act to facilitate or enable academic dishonestly and is strictly prohibited. (Living our
Unifying Values: The USC Student Handbook, page 13).

Artificial Intelligence
In this course, you may use artificial intelligence (AI)-powered programs to help you with
assignments other than exams. You should be aware that AI text generation tools may present
incorrect information, biased responses, and incomplete analyses. To adhere to our university
values, you must cite any AI-generated material (e.g., text, images, etc.) included or referenced in
your work and provide the prompts used to generate the content. Using an AI tool to generate
content without proper attribution will be treated as plagiarism and reported to the Office of
Academic Integrity. Please review the instructions in each assignment for more details on how and
when to use AI Generators for your submissions.
Add/Drop Process

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Most Marshall classes are open enrollment (R-clearance) through the Drop/Add deadline. If there
is an open seat, you can add the class using Web Registration. If the class is full, you will need to
continue checking Web Registration or the Schedule of Classes (classes.usc.edu) to see if a space
becomes available. Students who do not attend the first two class sessions (for classes that meet
twice per week) or the first class meeting (for classes that meet once per week) may be dropped
from the course. There are no formal wait lists for Marshall undergraduate courses, and professors
cannot add students or increase the course capacity. If all sections of the course are full, you can
add your name to an interest list by contacting the Office of Undergraduate Advising & Student
Affairs (213) 740-0690; if new seats or sections are added, students on the interest list will be
notified.
Use of Technology in Classroom Policy
Laptop and Internet usage unrelated to the class is not permitted during academic or professional
sessions unless otherwise stated by the respective professor and/or staff. Use of other personal
communication devices during academic or professional sessions is considered unprofessional
and is not permitted. ANY e-devices (cell phones, iPads, other texting devices, laptops, I-pods)
must be completely turned off during class time. Upon request, you must comply and put your
device on the table in off mode and FACE DOWN. You might also be asked to deposit your
devices in a designated area in the classroom

Videotaping faculty lectures is not permitted due to copyright infringement regulations.

Audiotaping may be permitted if approved by the professor. Use of any recorded or distributed
material is reserved exclusively for the USC students registered in this class. Exceptions to this
policy may be granted to individual students with appropriate documentation on a case-by-case
basis.

Pursuant to the USC Student Handbook (https://policy.usc.edu/studenthandbook/, pages 13 and

27), students may not record a university class without the express permission of the instructor
and announcement to the class. In addition, students may not distribute or use notes, recordings,
exams, or other intellectual property based on USC classes or lectures without the express per-
mission of the instructor for purposes other than personal or class-related group study by students
registered for the class. This restriction on unauthorized use applies to all information that is
distributed or displayed for use in relationship to the class. Distributing course material without
the instructor’s permission will be presumed to be an intentional act to facilitate or enable
academic dishonesty and is strictly prohibited. Violation of this policy may subject an individual
or entity to university discipline and/or legal proceedings.

Open Expression and Respect for All

An important goal of the educational experience at USC Marshall is to be exposed to and discuss
diverse, thought-provoking, and sometimes controversial ideas that challenge one’s beliefs. In
this course we will support the values articulated in the USC Marshall “Open Expression
Statement” (https://www.marshall.usc.edu/open-expression-statement).

Course Evaluations

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The student course evaluations are valuable. This course is continuously improved, based on
feedback from students and instructor observations.

Emergency Preparedness/Course Continuity

In case of a declared emergency if travel to campus is not feasible, the USC Emergency
Information web site (http://emergency.usc.edu/) will provide safety and other information,
including electronic means by which instructors will conduct class using a combination of USC’s
Brightspace learning management system (TBD), teleconferencing, and other technologies.

PROFESSOR BUCE POLICIES / COMMITMENTS

Lecture Slide Policy
Prior to 8:00am I will make “Pre-Class Lecture Slides” available on Brightspace “Content” for
used for note taking. However, I reserve the right to make changes to those slides prior to the
commencement of class.
By 8:00am I will make the finalized “Lecture Slides” available on Brightspace in “Content”
Email Based Homework and/or Practice Examination Question Support Policy
No Email based Homework and/or Practice Midterm/Final Problem/Question support
available. I am more than happy to work with students on Homework and Practice
Midterm/Final Problems/Questions in person during my office hours or during a scheduled in-
person or virtual sessions.
Accordingly, if I receive I an email related to a homework problem or practice examination
question I will respond with a request for the student to visit me during my office hours.
Email Response Commitment
I will make every effort to respond to emails within 1 business day of receipt.

TECHNOLOGY

USC Systems (Brightspace, USC Login, MyUSC, USC Gmail, GoogleApps)

For assistance with your USC login or other USC systems, please call +1 (213) 740-5555
or email [email protected]. They are open Mon – Fri 9:30am – 5pm and weekends from
8am - 5pm (all Pacific time).
Zoom Video Web Conferencing System (MarshallTALK)
For assistance using Zoom, go to Zoom Support Page. You may also call +1 (888) 799-
9666 ext. 2. They are available 24/7.
Marshall Systems (MyMarshall, Marshall Outlook email)
For assistance with Marshall systems you can call +1 (213) 740-3000 Mon-Fri 8am-6pm
(Pacific), email [email protected],edu, or use our self-help service portal as shown
below. The portal allows you to get immediate assistance by searching for the information
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 you need. You can also use it to chat with a technician or input a request. To access the
service portal, follow these steps:
o On a computer or mobile device, go to MyMarshall Home Page and click the “Help”
link on the upper right.
o Log in using your Marshall username and password.
(If you don’t know your Marshall login please follow the onscreen instructions
pertaining to login issues)

If your computer does not have Microsoft Word, Office 365 package is available to you free of
charge and allows you to install Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, and
Access on up to 5 PCs or Macs and Office apps on other mobile devices including tablets. Office
365 also includes unlimited cloud storage on OneDrive. To download Office 365 log into your
student (University) email through a web browser, choose Settings (top right corner), and select
software. If you have further questions or need help with the software, please contact the USC
ITS service portal.

USC STATEMENT ON ACADEMIC CONDUCT AND SUPPORT SYSTEMS

Academic Integrity:
The University of Southern California is foremost a learning community committed to fostering
successful scholars and researchers dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge and the transmission of
ideas. Academic misconduct is in contrast to the university’s mission to educate students through
a broad array of first-rank academic, professional, and extracurricular programs and includes any
act of dishonesty in the submission of academic work (either in draft or final form).
This course will follow the expectations for academic integrity as stated in the USC Student
Handbook. All students are expected to submit assignments that are original work and prepared
specifically for the course/section in this academic term. You may not submit work written by
others or “recycle” work prepared for other courses without obtaining written permission from
the instructor(s). Students suspected of engaging in academic misconduct will be reported to the
Office of Academic Integrity.
Other violations of academic misconduct include, but are not limited to, cheating, plagiarism,
fabrication (e.g., falsifying data), knowingly assisting others in acts of academic dishonesty, and
any act that gains or is intended to gain an unfair academic advantage.
Academic dishonesty has a far-reaching impact and is considered a serious offense against the
university. Violations will result in a grade penalty, such as a failing grade on the assignment or
in the course, and disciplinary action from the university itself, such as suspension or even
expulsion.
For more information about academic integrity see the student handbook
(https://policy.usc.edu/studenthandbook/) or the Office of Academic Integrity’s website
15
(https://academicintegrity.usc.edu/), and university policies on Research and Scholarship
Misconduct (https://policy.usc.edu/research-and-scholarship-misconduct/).
Please ask your instructor if you are unsure what constitutes unauthorized assistance on an exam
or assignment or what information requires citation and/or attribution.
Appendix II contains the specific Penalties for Academic Integrity Violations.

Students and Disability Accommodations:

USC welcomes students with disabilities into all of the University’s educational programs. The
Office of Student Accessibility Services (OSAS) is responsible for the determination of
appropriate accommodations for students who encounter disability-related barriers. Once a
student has completed the OSAS process (registration, initial appointment, and submitted
documentation) and accommodations are determined to be reasonable and appropriate, a Letter
of Accommodation (LOA) will be available to generate for each course. The LOA must be given
to each course instructor by the student and followed up with a discussion. This should be done
as early in the semester as possible as accommodations are not retroactive. More information can
be found at osas.usc.edu. You may contact OSAS at (213) 740-0776 or via email at
[email protected].
Student Financial Aid and Satisfactory Academic Progress:
To be eligible for certain kinds of financial aid, students are required to maintain Satisfactory
Academic Progress (SAP) toward their degree objectives. Visit the Financial Aid Office
webpage for undergraduate- and graduate-level SAP eligibility requirements and the appeals
process.
Support Systems:
Counseling and Mental Health - (213) 740-9355 – 24/7 on call
Free and confidential mental health treatment for students, including short-term psychotherapy,
group counseling, stress fitness workshops, and crisis intervention.
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline - 988 for both calls and text messages – 24/7 on call
The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention
Lifeline) provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or
emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, across the United States. The Lifeline is
comprised of a national network of over 200 local crisis centers, combining custom local care
and resources with national standards and best practices. The new, shorter phone number makes
it easier for people to remember and access mental health crisis services (though the previous 1
(800) 273-8255 number will continue to function indefinitely) and represents a continued
commitment to those in crisis.
Relationship and Sexual Violence Prevention Services (RSVP) - (213) 740-9355(WELL) – 24/7
on call

16
Free and confidential therapy services, workshops, and training for situations related to gender-
and power-based harm (including sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and stalking).

Office for Equity, Equal Opportunity, and Title IX (EEO-TIX) - (213) 740-5086
Information about how to get help or help someone affected by harassment or discrimination,
rights of protected classes, reporting options, and additional resources for students, faculty, staff,
visitors, and applicants.

Reporting Incidents of Bias or Harassment - (213) 740-5086 or (213) 821-8298

Avenue to report incidents of bias, hate crimes, and microaggressions to the Office for Equity,
Equal Opportunity, and Title for appropriate investigation, supportive measures, and response.

The Office of Student Accessibility Services (OSAS) - (213) 740-0776

OSAS ensures equal access for students with disabilities through providing academic
accommodations and auxiliary aids in accordance with federal laws and university policy.

USC Campus Support and Intervention - (213) 740-0411

Assists students and families in resolving complex personal, financial, and academic issues
adversely affecting their success as a student.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion - (213) 740-2101

Information on events, programs and training, the Provost’s Diversity and Inclusion Council,
Diversity Liaisons for each academic school, chronology, participation, and various resources for
students.

USC Emergency - UPC: (213) 740-4321, HSC: (323) 442-1000 – 24/7 on call
Emergency assistance and avenue to report a crime. Latest updates regarding safety, including
ways in which instruction will be continued if an officially declared emergency makes travel to
campus infeasible.

USC Department of Public Safety - UPC: (213) 740-6000, HSC: (323) 442-1200 – 24/7 on call
Non-emergency assistance or information.

17
Office of the Ombuds - (213) 821-9556 (UPC) / (323-442-0382 (HSC)
A safe and confidential place to share your USC-related issues with a University Ombuds who
will work with you to explore options or paths to manage your concern.

Occupational Therapy Faculty Practice - (323) 442-2850 or [email protected]

Confidential Lifestyle Redesign services for USC students to support health promoting habits
and routines that enhance quality of life and academic performance.

18
 SCHEDULE OF CLASSES/COURSE SCHEDULE

Pre-class Homework
video/assessment Pre-class due by 8pm
Cla Mon- Wedn due by 8pm day reading the day
ss day esday Topic before class assignment before class
Introductions, course overview, case Connect
1 8/26
study orientation video
2 Accounting Framework/ E Chap 1 (LO 1-3,
8/28
Foundational basics (E Chap 8) 4, 6)
3 9/2 No class (Labor Day)
4 9/4 Accounting equation and E Chap 1 (LO 1-6,
transactions (E Chap 1) 7, 8, 10 )
5 9/9 Accounting equation with Accruals E Chap 2 (LO 2-1,
and Deferrals (E Chap 2) 2, 3, 6, 7, 8)
6 9/11 Accounting for merchandising: E Chap 3 (LO 3-1,
Period/product cost, cost flow, 2, 3, 4)
purchases (E Chap 3)
7 9/16 Accounting for inventory shrinkage, E Chap 3 (LO 3-5,
gains/losses, net revenue, 6, 7, 9)
inventory/cost of goods sold
transactions (E Chap 3)
8 9/18 AR and Inventory Cost Flow (E Chap E Chap 5 (LO 5-1,
5) 2, 3)
9 9/23 AR and Inventory Cost Flow (E Chap E Chap 5 (LO 5- 4,
5) 5, 6)
10 9/25 Exam 1 review
11 9/30 Exam 1
12 10/2 Long term Operational Assets (E E Chap 6 (LO 6-1,
Chap 6) 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10)
13 10/7 Liabilities (E Chap 7) E Chap 7 (LO 7-1, Class Project
3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10) assigned
14 10/9 Equity (E Chap 8) E Chap 8 (LO 8-1,
2, 3, 4, 5, 7)
15 10/14 Financial Statement Analysis (E Chap E Chap 9 (LO 9-1,
9) 2)
16 10/16 Financial Statement Analysis (E Chap E Chap 9 (LO 9-3, Class Project:
9) 4, 5) Workplan
17 10/21 Financial Statement Analysis – ROI HP Chap 13
and EVA (LO 13-2, 3, 4,
5)
18 10/23 Managerial Accounting intro, Time HP Chap 16 HP 13-29, 33
Value of Money/Capital Budgeting (LO 16-1, 2)
19 10/28 Exam 2 review 16-28, 16-40
20 10/30 Exam 2
21 11/4 Cost Behavior HP Chap 6 (LO Class Project:
6-2, 3, 4, 5, 6) Outline
19
22 11/6 Cost volume profit (CVP) Part 1 HP Chap 7 (LO 6-24, 25, 34
7-1, 2, 3, 4)
23 11/11 No class (Veteran’s Day)
24 11/13 CVP Part 2 HP Chap 7 (LO
7-7, 8, 9)
25 11/18 Budgeting/FP&A HP Chap 9 (LO 7-29, 33, 40
9-2, 3, 5, 6) &
Chap 11 (LO
11-1, 2)
26 11/20 Class Project Team Presentations 9-25, 28, 30.
11-31 and
Class Project:
PPT
Presentation
27 11/25 Business Decisions Part 1 HP Chap 14
(LO 14-2, 3, 4,
5)
28 11/27 No class (Thanksgiving)
29 12/2 Business Decisions Part 2 HP Chap 14
(LO 14- 6)
30 12/4 Business Decisions Part 3 HP Chap 14 14-35, 40
(LO 14-5, 6)
31 12/9 Final review (optional, location TBD)
12/11 Final Exam 8-10am

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 Appendix I
USC Marshall School of Business
Undergraduate Program Learning Goals and Objectives (last update 12/21/17)

Learning goal 1: Our graduates will demonstrate critical thinking skills so as to become
future-oriented problem solvers, innovators and decision makers in diverse and rapidly
changing business environments.
 Students will demonstrate the ability to anticipate, identify and solve business problems.
They will be able to identify and assess central problems, identify and evaluate potential
solutions, and translate a chosen solution to an implementation plan that considers future
contingencies
 Students will demonstrate the ability to be accurate, clear, expansive (thorough, detailed)
and fair-minded in their thinking
 Students will critically analyze concepts, theories and processes by stating them in their
own words, understanding key components, identifying assumptions, indicating how they
are similar to and different from others and translating them to the real world
 Students will be effective at gathering, storing, and using qualitative and quantitative data
and at using analytical tools and frameworks to understand and solve business problems
 Students will understand the concepts of critical thinking, entrepreneurial thinking and
creative thinking as drivers of innovative ideas

Learning Goal 2: Our graduates will develop people and leadership skills to promote their
effectiveness as business managers and leaders in the 21st century’s evolving work and
organizational structures.
 Students will recognize, understand and analyze the roles, responsibilities and behaviors
of effective managers and leaders in diverse business contexts e.g., functionally diverse,
culturally diverse, geographically diverse, etc.
 Students will understand factors that contribute to effective teamwork including how to
elicit, manage and leverage diverse perspectives and competencies.
 Students will recognize, understand, and analyze the motivations and behaviors of
stakeholders inside and outside organizations (e.g., teams, departments, consumers,
investors, auditors)

Learning Goal 3: Our graduates will be effective communicators to facilitate information

flow in organizational, social, and intercultural contexts.
 Students will identify and assess diverse personal and organizational communication
goals and audience information needs
21
  Students will demonstrate an ability to gather and disseminate information and
communicate it clearly, logically, and persuasively in professional contexts
 Students will understand individual and group communications patterns and dynamics in
organizations and other professional contexts

Learning goal 4: Our graduates will demonstrate ethical reasoning skills, understand
social, civic, and professional responsibilities and aspire to add value to society.
 Students will recognize ethical challenges in business situations and assess appropriate
courses of action
 Students will understand professional codes of conduct

Learning goal 5: Our graduates will develop a global business perspective. They will
understand how local, regional, and international markets, and economic, social and
cultural issues impact business decisions so as to anticipate new opportunities in any
marketplace.
 Students will understand that stakeholders, stakeholder interests, business environments
(legal, regulatory, competitor) and business practices vary across regions of the world
 Students will understand how local, regional and global markets interact and are
impacted by economic, social and cultural factors.

Learning goal 6: Our graduates will understand types of markets and key business areas
and their interaction to effectively manage different types of enterprises.
 Students will demonstrate foundational knowledge of core business disciplines, including
business analytics and business economics
 Students will understand the interrelationships between functional areas of business so as
to develop a general perspective on business management
 Students will apply theories, models, and frameworks to analyze relevant markets (e.g.
product, capital, commodity, factor and labor markets)
 Students will be able to use technologies (e.g., spreadsheets, databases, software) relevant
to contemporary business practices

Undergraduate Accounting Program Student Learning Objectives (last updated 6/13/19)

22
 Students will demonstrate technical proficiency in the
OBJECTIVE Technical accounting discipline, including the use of technical
1 Knowledge accounting knowledge to help solve problems and
make decisions.
Students will demonstrate the ability to critically
Research, Analysis
OBJECTIVE analyze, synthesize, and evaluate information for
and Critical
2 decision making in the local, regional and global
Thinking
business environment.
OBJECTIVE Ethical Decision Students will demonstrate an understanding of ethics,
3 Making ethical behavior and ethical decision making.
Students will demonstrate the ability to communicate
OBJECTIVE
Communication ideas both orally and in writing in a clear, organized
4
and persuasive manner.
Leadership, Students will demonstrate leadership skills and the
OBJECTIVE
Collaboration and ability to work cooperatively and productively to
5
Professionalism accomplish established goals.
Students will demonstrate an understanding of
technology issues and utilize relevant technology
OBJECTIVE tools and applications to gather and evaluate
Technology
6 information, analyze and solve problems, work
interactively with other people, and develop and
present conclusions.

23
 APPENDIX II
Penalties for Academic Integrity Violations

Acct 410 Grade Penalties

The following Grade penalties may only be imposed if a student is determined to
be responsible for a violation of the Student Handbook.
https://policy.usc.edu/studenthandbook

Plagiarism or use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Grade Penalty for Students

The submission of material authored by another person
but represented as the student’s own work 0 Points on the Assignment1

Re-using any portion of one’s own work (essay, term paper,

project, or other assignment) previously submitted without
citation of such and without permission of the instructor(s) 0 Points on the Assignment1
involved.
Improper acknowledgment of sources in essays or papers,
including drafts. Also, all students involved in 10% to 100% Deduction of Points
collaborative work (as permitted by the instructor) are on the Assignment depending upon
expected to proofread the work and are responsible for all the extent of of the improper
particulars of the final draft. acknowledgement1
Acquisition of academic work, such as term papers,
solutions, or other assignments, from any source and the
subsequent presentation of those materials as the student’s
own work, or providing academic work, such as term 0 Points on the Assignment1
papers, solutions, or assignments that another student
submits as
their own work.
Cheating Grade Penalty for Students
Submitting material that was substantively drafted or
revised by another. 0 Points on the Assignment1
Any use or attempted use of external assistance in the
completion of an academic assignment and/or during an
examination; or, any behavior that defeats the intent of an
examination or other classwork or assignment, unless 0 Points on the Assignment1
expressly permitted by the instructor.
Submission of work altered after grading shall be
considered academically dishonest, including but not
limited to changing answers after an exam or assignment
has been returned or submitting another’s exam as one’s 0 Points on the Assignment1
own to
dispute a grade and/or gain credit.

24
Obtaining for oneself or distributing any academic work,
such as solutions to homework, a project or other
assignment, or a copy of an exam or exam key, without 0 Points on the Assignment1
the
knowledge and expressed consent of the instructor.
Unauthorized collaboration on any academic work, such
as an exam, a project, homework, or other assignment. 0 Points on the Assignment1
Collaboration will be considered unauthorized unless
expressly part of the assignment in question or
expressly permitted by the instructor.

Cheating - Continued Grade Penalty for Students

Taking a course or completing any coursework or exam

for another student, or allowing another individual to take
a course, complete coursework or a portion of a course, or 0 Points on the Assignment1
exam in one’s stead.
Accessing, altering, and/or using unauthorized information.
0 Points on the Assignment1
Other Violations of Academic Integrity Grade Penalty for Students
Fabrication: Submitting material for lab assignments, class
projects, or other assignments which is wholly or partially 0 Points on the Assignment for the
falsified, invented, or otherwise does not represent work individual student (s) associated
accomplished or undertaken by the student. with the violation1
Distribution or use of notes, recordings, exams, or other
intellectual property, based on university classes or lectures
without the express permission of the instructor for Referral of student to the Office of
purposes other than individual or group study. This Academic Integrity
includes but is not limited to providing materials for
distribution by services publishing course materials.
Recording a university class without the express
permission of the instructor and announcement to the class,
or unless conducted pursuant to an Office of Student Referral of student to the Office of
Accessibility Services (OSAS) accommodation. Academic Integrity
Failure to comply with testing protocols,
policies, procedures, or instructions. 0% to 100% Deduction of Points
Falsification, alteration, or misrepresentation of official or depending upon the infraction
unofficial records or documents including but not limited
to academic transcripts, résumés, academic documentation,
letters of recommendation, admissions applications, or Referral of student to the Office of
related documents. Academic Integrity
Any act that gains or is intended to gain an unfair
academic advantage may be considered a violation of
academic integrity. Referral of student to the Office of

25
Furnishing false information to any university official, Academic Integrity
faculty member, or office. This includes but is not limited
to furnishing false information in academic petitions or
requests, financial aid documents, student employment
documents, applications, financial statements or other
documents, or intentionally evading university officials Referral of student to the Office of
and/or obligations to the university. Academic Integrity
Any attempt to hinder the academic work of another
student or any act which may jeopardize another student’s
academic standing.
Referral of student to the Office of
Academic Integrity

1. Referral of student to the Office of Academic Integrity

26