Accounting 1

Overview

Accounting 1 is a beginner-level introduction to financial accounting offered by the University of Lausanne as the first part of a two-course sequence (FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING I & II). Spanning just 2 weeks, it provides foundational knowledge in the subject, with free enrollment available on Coursera. It's designed for those dipping their toes into accounting without prior experience.

Who It's For

This course suits absolute beginners with zero accounting background, making it ideal for students, career changers, or professionals in non-finance roles (like small business owners or admins) looking to build basic financial literacy. Those aiming for entry-level jobs in accounting, bookkeeping, or finance support would benefit, especially if they prefer a short, self-paced format on Coursera that fits busy schedules. It's not for experienced accountants seeking advanced topics.

Strengths

• High student satisfaction: A solid 4.7/5 rating from 270 reviews indicates learners find it engaging and effective for beginners.
• Reputable provider: Backed by the University of Lausanne, adding academic credibility to the content.
• Accessible entry point: Beginner level and free enrollment lower barriers, with the sequence structure encouraging progression to Accounting II.
• Concise format: At just 2 weeks, it's perfect for quick skill-building without overwhelming time demands.
• Certificate potential: Coursera certificates (paid upgrade) from a university hold value for resumes in entry-level finance roles.

Weaknesses

• Limited depth and scope: As a short 2-week course and only the first half of a sequence, it can't cover financial accounting comprehensively—expect basics only, not advanced applications.
• Incomplete standalone: Being part of FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING I & II means you'll likely need the second course for a full picture, which could frustrate those wanting a complete intro in one go.
• Data scarcity on specifics: With minimal details available, it's hard to gauge hands-on elements like quizzes or projects, potentially leaving learners unsure about practical reinforcement.

Curriculum Highlights

The standout here is its role as the entry to the FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING I & II sequence, focusing on core beginner financial accounting principles from a university perspective—what makes it shine is the promise of a structured path without overwhelming complexity. Unfortunately, specific modules aren't detailed in available data, so the value lies in its position as a bite-sized foundation for broader accounting literacy.

Value Assessment

Absolutely worth the time (just 2 weeks) and free enrollment, especially for career starters eyeing finance roles where basic accounting knowledge boosts resumes—ROI is high given the university certificate option and strong ratings. Compared to pricier alternatives like full accounting specializations, this is a low-risk tester; free audit mode maximizes value, though paid certs add polish over fully free YouTube intros.

Bottom Line

Take this if you're a true beginner needing a quick, credible accounting primer before committing to more—pair it with the sequel for best results. Skip if you want depth or already have basics.

Rating

9/10
Excellent for what it is—a highly rated, free, university-backed beginner intro—but docked slightly for its brevity and reliance on the follow-up course.