Course content

The course provides a forward-looking introduction to how the accounting and finance function is being digitalized and transformed through cloud-based systems, integrations, automation, and artificial intelligence. Students learn how organizational and technical solutions enable automated data capture, bookkeeping, reconciliation, and real-time reporting, as well as how AI is applied in accounting — and associated limitations, risks, and quality threats. The course also covers anti-money laundering regulations, internal control, information security, and data protection in digital accounting environments. The course contributes to fulfilling the educational requirements for students seeking authorization from the Financial Supervisory Authority of Norway (Finanstilsynet) as accountant (statsautorisert regnskapsfører) on the basis of qualifications other than a Master in Accounting and Auditing (MRR). Most of the syllabus will be in Norwegian.

Learning outcome

Knowledge

The student shall:

• understand how cloud-based accounting systems, integrations, and applications enable automated data capture, bookkeeping, and reporting
• be familiar with the use of AI and automation in accounting processes (e.g., document interpretation, posting suggestions, anomaly detection, forecasting) and the associated limitations and risks
• have knowledge of IT controls, internal control, information security, and data protection in digital and AI-supported accounting environments
• understand how accounting information, sustainability information, and payroll data are reported digitally to authorities
• possess in-depth knowledge of the regulatory framework governing accounting services, including anti-money laundering regulations.

Skills

The student shall be able to:

• describe and discuss the execution, monitoring, and quality assurance of automated accounting processes from data capture to reconciliation and statutory reporting
• identify, assess, and correct errors or anomalies in AI-supported and automated bookkeeping by solving tasks and discussing cases
• prepare examples demonstrating that the student understands how an entity must document bookkeeping, accounting work, and controls to ensure traceability, compliance, and auditability
• discuss challenges related to advising others on effective digital routines and the responsible use of automation and AI in the finance and accounting function

General competence

The course will contribute to students’ development of general competence in accordance with the learning outcomes described at program level.

Learning methods and activities

Own work with online resources, literature, regulations, standards and tasks. As a supplement, some teaching sessions are also offered on campus in Trondheim during the autumn semester. It is recommended to find fellow students to collaborate with.

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

Basic knowledge of business administration and accounting.

Required previous knowledge

None

Course materials

Will be announced at the start of the semester. See also course description in Norwegian.