COURSE DESCRIPTION FROM OFFICIAL BULLETIN

A survey course that provides a conceptual approach to the tax rules and regulations that define and shape tax law. The Internal Revenue Code, court decisions, and IRS rulings are studied to determine the issues confronting accountants and other tax return-preparers. Tax planning and research are emphasized through cases, Internet assignments, and tax return preparation.

ACADEMIC HONESTY

Students are advised that cheating and plagiarism are not tolerated at St. Gregory’s University. Students are expected to abide by the University's academic regulations and policy and are responsible for awareness of the University's definition of these activities. The consequences of violating the academic honesty standard may include a grade of "0" on the assignment/exam, a grade of "F" in the course, and, possibly, expulsion from the University.

REQUIRED TEXT AND SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIALS TO BE PURCHASED BY STUDENT

Concepts in Federal Taxation, 2001 Edition, Murphy, Kevin E. and Higgins, Mark, South-Western, 2001. ISBN: 0-324-02156-9

INTERNET RESOURCES

METHODS OF ASSESSMENT AND STUDENT EVALUATION

• The class periods immediately prior to both the mid-term and final exams will be used for review.
• Quizzes will be given throughout the semester, some announced.
• Being prepared and present for the exams is your responsibility.

HOMEWORK PROBLEMS

The first class scheduled for each chapter will be discussion. Homework problems will be assigned at the end of such class period. These problems will be due by the beginning of the next period. Problems should be completed using a spreadsheet format and e-mailed to the instructor before the beginning of the next class period. The problems will then be reviewed during the next class. Points will be given for effort in completing the problem, not just getting the right answer.

A comprehensive tax problem will be assigned after the mid-term exam. You will be give a set of assumptions and will be asked to complete a federal income tax return Form 1040. I would suggest you complete the return using a readily available tax software such as TurboTax.

CLASS PREPARATON AND PARTICIPATION

You will be expected to be prepared for each class. Your should read the chapter to be discussed prior to coming to class. A portion of your grade will be determined by your participation during the discussion and problem review portions of class.

CURRENT EVENTS, PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS, AND THE INTERNET

During the course of the semester, we will track current events relating to tax law changes. We will use the Internet to aid our research.

OFFICE HOURS

If you have questions or problems you may contact me anytime via E-mail. If additional assistance is needed then I can arrange to meet with you at a mutually convenient time. My travel schedule will be very heavy through the end of the year, however, I can arrange to be on campus before class on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Also I am always in my office on Saturdays. My office is located at the corner of MacArthur and Acme Roads.

COURSE OUTLINE

The schedule is flexible. It is not possible for an instructor to cover all the course material without student independent study. As students are interested in a particular topic or as test scores warrant, more time will be spent on a chapter. Homework serves as a focus of class discussion.