One of the requirements for becoming an accountant is an on-campus or online degree in accounting. Some employers prefer applicants who have an MBA with an accounting concentration.
Becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is one of the strongest and most required designations in the field.
Becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is one of the strongest and most required designations in the field.
Related Accountant Programs
What does an accountant do?
Accountants support firms in the handling of their money so their fundamental responsibility is to prepare, analyze and verify financial documents for clients.
They ensure public records are kept accurately and taxes are done properly and paid on time. One of the duties of an accountant is to analyze and communicate financial data to various government entities and clients.
Accountants can also offer their services in budget analysis, financial planning and some legal services.
The four major accounting fields are:
• Public Accounting- Their clients may be corporations, governments, non-profit organizations or individuals. They perform a broad range of accounting, auditing, consulting and tax services for them.
• Management Accounting- These accountants perform accounting services for the places where they work
• Government Accountants- They work in the public sector, doing accounting for government agencies and auditing private businesses that are subject to outside audits
• Internal Auditors- They check the internal controls of their organization for waste, mismanagement or fraud
What kind of education does an accountant need?
A distance learning or onsite bachelor’s degree in accounting is the usual way to enter the field. Some college and universities are offering specialty accounting programs focusing on the four accounting types.
The CPA exam is a rigorous. At least one half of those who take it, do not pass on the first try. Most states require that the candidate pass within 18 months after passing the first of four sections.
A CPA is licensed by their state board of accountancy. The designation indicates that the designee has mastered all of the required accounting proficiencies.
How much does an accountant earn?
Bureau of Labor Statistics suggest that median annual salaries for accountants are at around $59,430.
Where can an accountant work?
Accountants can work for private industry or the government. About 8% of accountants are self-employed