Business Analysis Using Financial Statements

1.5 units

This course develops the ability to interpret and use financial statements as strategic tools for business decision-making rather than mere record-keeping. Students learn how accounting numbers reflect underlying economic performance, managerial choices, and value creation. The course emphasizes profitability, solvency, liquidity, and the role of discretion in financial reporting under U.S. and international GAAP. Through cases and applied analysis, students identify earnings management, assess creditworthiness, and evaluate firm performance across business models. The course further applies financial statement analysis to forecasting, valuation, and investment decisions. Finally, it explores control systems used to guide incentives and align managerial actions with firm strategy. Students may not earn credit in both ACCT 5030 and ACCT 6030.