San Jose State University
College of Business
Department of Accounting and Finance
Forensic Accounting--BA124
Fall 2008
(updated 11/17/08)-use 11/6 notes for 11/18

Section: TTR 3:00pm - 4:15pm; 4:30pm - 5:45pm; BC 107                     
Office: BT 852
Office Hrs.:T,TH; 2:00-2:50pm; or by appointment
Phone: 408.924.3468
Fax: 408.924.3463
E-mail: wfocpa@aol.com

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Fraud is a significant drain on the U.S. economy. A recent study by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners estimated that fraud costs the economy almost $700 billion per year (or the equivalent of $4,500 per employee). Moreover, this same study estimated that only about 11 percent of frauds are discovered through the course of normal audits (as opposed to approximately 19% discovered by accident). This course will examine the various frauds that are perpetrated on companies and discuss ways the accountant can uncover these frauds. In addition, the criminal justice system will be reviewed (with an eye to the role of the forensic accountant as an expert witness) and the various litigation-support functions provided to attorneys by accountants will be discussed.

The ethical aspects of these issues will also be discussed during the course of the semester.

HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENT:
Before you come to each class, read the material as outlined in the syllabus. Homework problems are to be completed before each class. Students will be expected to present solutions to selected homework assignments in class. While homework will not be routinely collected, it is absolutely necessary that you do your homework. Each chapter uses concepts and techniques learned in previous chapters. If you wish to understand the material better, you cannot afford to ignore the homework.

EXAMINATIONS:
There will be four (4) examinations, three in class mid-terms and  a comprehensive take-home final examination. The group project and the related presentation will also serve as a comprehensive measure of your overall course competency.   Generally speaking, there will be NO make-up examinations. In the event of a rare emergency on the day of the examination, you should notify me as soon as possible. Use all available methods of communication. The final examination and presentation must be completed as scheduled.  On each examination, an adjustment to each student’s raw score will be given based upon the average score of the top 10% of the class.

CLASS SESSION:
In class, we stress analysis and application of the concepts that you are expected to learn on your own. While we follow the general flow of the textbooks, we do not simply repeat the text. We emphasize important points, add new information, review homework problems and apply the concepts to real-world situations. Ample opportunities will be given to you in class for asking questions and answering questions raised by others. I expect each of you to be prepared for class.

GRADING AND GRADE CATEGORIES:
Grading will be based on the following scores:                       The following grading distribution
                                                                                                will be approximated:
            Exams (4): 100 points each             400                                 A range 35%          90%-100%
            Individual Project                            50                                 B range 35%          80%-89%
            Group Project                                 100                                 C range 25%          70%-79%
            Group Presentation                           50                                 D range 5%            60%-69%
                    Total Points                            600                                 F                            Below 60%

PROJECTS:
Individual
Each student will select a type of fraud or defrauded company and prepare an analysis of the situation in a paper not to exceed 5 pages.

Any violation of academic integrity in any of the exams or assignments (including unauthorized use of internet resources) will lead to a course grade of "F".

COURSE OUTLINE AND ASSIGNMENTS (H/W and article assignment dates may be changed as we progress):