306-465 Studies in Audit and Assurance Services

306-304 Auditing and Assurance Services (or equivalent).

This subject develops students' analytic skills and understanding of the theoretical and empirical literature in auditing. The course covers issues in the market for audit services and related auditor provided non-audit services. Issues examined include: models of audit, issues in audit quality, factors that explain audit competency, auditor independence, audit markets in private and public sectors, production function in audit firms. Critical issues such as the destruction of Andersen and the issues surrounding corporate (and alleged audit) failure (e.g. Enron and HIH) are considered.

• High level of development: oral communication; written communication; statistical reasoning; application of theory to practice; interpretation and analysis; critical thinking; evaluation of data and other information.

• Moderate level of development: collaborative learning; problem solving; team work; accessing data and other information from a range of sources; receptiveness to alternative ideas.

• Some level of development: synthesis of data and other information; use of computer software.

Seminar participation (10%), one assignment totalling not more than 4000 words (40%) and a final examination (50%).

Required materials as advised.