Course Information

The introduction of Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) Act law fueled rapid growth in the organizational importance of internal control systems. Appropriate interpretation and implementation of the internal control framework is vital for every organization. This course incorporates and reflects up-to-date guidance from the PCAOB, the AICPA, the ACFE, and the principles of 2013 COSO Framework. The course not only addresses the theoretical concept of the internal control systems but also provides readers with the practical guidance they need to assume a role in the design, implementation, maintenance and evaluation of a comprehensive framework of internal controls for their organizations. Specifically, the course presents the principles of internal control to help readers understand the nature and context of control, such as limitations of internal controls, the most recognized controls frameworks (e.g. COSO Framework, Green Book), and some common and important control procedures. It also includes steps on how to identify ri

1. Identify the functions and limitations of internal control 2. Recognize the COSO principles of internal control 3. Identify some common and important control procedures 4. Distinguish between the IT general controls and application controls 5. Recognize the implication and significance of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act 6. Recognize key procedures involved in identifying risks and controls 7. Identify key considerations for identifying and evaluating control deficiencies 8. Recognize the requirements of management documentation of controls 9. Identify factors in assessing the maturity level of a company’s internal control structure 10. Identify the audit objectives, scope, and procedures applied to the integrated audit 11. Recognize fraud considerations in a financial statement audit 12. Identify the most common schemes and fraud symptoms 13. Recognize techniques to prevent and detect fraud