THE ACCOUNTING EDUCATION OF GRADUATES IS IT MEETING THE NEEDS OF EMPLOYERS? EVIDENCE FROM CYPRUS

Iranian Journal of Accounting, Auditing and Finance

Article 3, Volume 2, Issue 2, January 0   

DOI: 10.22067/ijaaf.v2i2.74113

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to review the evidence concerning the relationship between the education of accounting graduates and the industry, with particular emphasis on their knowledge and skills in accounting degree programs. A questionnaire and semi-structures interviews were analysed and used in order to examine the relationship between the skills of accounting graduates and the needs of employers. It was found that in certain areas, accounting graduates are lacking in technological skills, analytical skills and writing skills. Evidence is provided that employers are more positive concerning the use of technical skills in the workplace than students. The implication of the results indicates that graduates’ do not realise the importance of technology skills and this raises the question whether technology skills should be increased in graduate programs in accounting. Little research has been carried out in Cyprus in this area and the article can act as a base for future research in accounting education.

Keywords

Accounting education; accounting graduates; knowledge skills; technical skills