Managerial Accounting: Strategic Decision Making and Cost Analysis

Master the fundamentals of managerial accounting with a comprehensive course designed for both accounting and non-accounting majors. Learn essential concepts of cost analysis, budgeting, performance measurement, and strategic decision-making through practical applications and real-world case studies.

What You'll Learn

  • Master core managerial accounting concepts and methodologies
  • Develop practical skills in cost analysis and budgeting
  • Learn to implement performance measurement systems
  • Understand strategic decision-making frameworks
  • Apply cost-volume-profit analysis in real business scenarios

AI Mentor Inspiration

Warren Numbers

Warren Numbers

Inspired by Warren Buffett's analytical approach, Warren Numbers is an AI tutor specializing in managerial accounting and strategic financial analysis.

Detailed Schedule

Week 1

Foundations of Cost Analysis and Management Accounting

Introduction to core managerial accounting concepts and cost analysis fundamentals.

  • Topics:
    • Introduction to managerial accounting
    • Cost classification and behavior
  • Live Session Duration: 90 minutes
  • Homework Duration: 180 minutes
  • Discussion Points:
    • How does managerial accounting differ from financial accounting?
    • What are the key challenges in identifying and classifying costs?
    • How do cost behaviors impact business decisions?
  • Reading Assignments:
    • Chapters 1-2 in 'Principles of Managerial Accounting' (OpenStax)
    • Case Study: 'Cost Classification in Manufacturing Industries'
    • Article: 'Understanding Cost Behavior Patterns'
  • Video Assignments:
    • Watch: 'Introduction to Managerial Accounting Concepts'
    • Tutorial: 'Using Lyryx for Cost Analysis Problems'

Week 2

Cost-Volume-Profit Analysis and Activity-Based Costing

Deep dive into CVP analysis and modern costing methodologies.

  • Topics:
    • Cost-Volume-Profit relationships
    • Activity-Based Costing systems
  • Live Session Duration: 90 minutes
  • Homework Duration: 240 minutes
  • Discussion Points:
    • How does CVP analysis support decision-making?
    • What are the advantages of Activity-Based Costing over traditional methods?
    • How can businesses implement ABC effectively?
  • Reading Assignments:
    • Chapters 3-4 in 'Principles of Managerial Accounting' (OpenStax)
    • Case Study: 'Implementing ABC in Service Industries'
    • Article: 'Modern Applications of CVP Analysis'
  • Video Assignments:
    • Watch: 'CVP Analysis in Action'
    • Tutorial: 'Building an ABC System'

Week 3

Budgeting and Performance Measurement Systems

Learn comprehensive budgeting techniques and performance measurement tools.

  • Topics:
    • Master and operating budgets
    • Balanced scorecards
  • Live Session Duration: 120 minutes
  • Homework Duration: 210 minutes
  • Discussion Points:
    • What makes an effective budgeting process?
    • How do balanced scorecards enhance performance measurement?
    • What are common challenges in implementing performance measurement systems?
  • Reading Assignments:
    • Chapters 5-6 in 'Principles of Managerial Accounting' (OpenStax)
    • Case Study: 'Budgeting in Nonprofit Organizations'
    • Article: 'Implementing Effective Balanced Scorecards'
  • Video Assignments:
    • Watch: 'Building Comprehensive Budgets'
    • Tutorial: 'Designing Balanced Scorecards'

Week 4

Strategic Decision Making and Advanced Cost Management

Apply advanced concepts in strategic decision-making and cost management.

  • Topics:
    • Strategic cost management
    • Decision-making techniques
  • Live Session Duration: 120 minutes
  • Homework Duration: 240 minutes
  • Discussion Points:
    • How do strategic decisions impact long-term cost structure?
    • What role does cost management play in competitive advantage?
    • How can organizations optimize their decision-making processes?
  • Reading Assignments:
    • Chapters 7-8 in 'Principles of Managerial Accounting' (OpenStax)
    • Case Study: 'Strategic Cost Management in Global Companies'
    • Article: 'Advanced Decision-Making Frameworks'
  • Video Assignments:
    • Watch: 'Strategic Cost Management in Practice'
    • Tutorial: 'Advanced Decision-Making Tools'

Student Experiences

Word Cloud

Weekly group case study discussionsCollaborative budgeting projectsPeer review sessions

Learning with Cohorts and AI

Learn Better with Cohorts

Learn from diverse perspectives as you collaborate with peers on real-world accounting scenarios, enhancing your problem-solving skills through group discussions and shared experiences.

AI-Powered Learning

Our AI tutor provides personalized guidance on complex accounting concepts, instant feedback on practice problems, and helps you master the Lyryx homework system effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main focus of the course?

The course focuses on managerial accounting principles, including cost analysis, budgeting, performance measurement, and strategic decision-making.

What are the prerequisites?

Basic understanding of accounting principles and business concepts is recommended, but the course is designed for both accounting and non-accounting majors.

How is the course structured?

The course combines theoretical concepts with practical applications through live sessions, hands-on exercises, case studies, and the Lyryx online homework system.

What kind of support is provided?

Students receive support through live sessions, AI tutor assistance, peer collaboration, and access to the Lyryx online homework system.

Is there a certificate upon completion?

Yes, students receive a certificate after successfully completing all course requirements and assignments.

Course Details

  • 4 weeks
  • Cohort-based learning
  • Start anytime

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