Types of Accounting Degrees

The best accounting degree for you to pursue depends on what type of accounting work you seek. Degrees range from associate's degrees to doctorate degrees.

Associate's Degree in Accounting

Associate's degrees in accounting generally require two years of study at the college level. This degree can result in an entry-level bookkeeping position.

Bachelor's Degree in Accounting

A bachelor's degree in accounting usually requires four years of study at a college or university. One cannot take the exam to become a certified public accountant without a bachelor's degree.

Master's Degree in Accounting

A master's degree in accounting usually requires an additional year of study beyond a bachelor's degree. A master's degree can facilitate specializing in a particular area of accounting, such as tax accounting or auditing.

MBA with Accounting Focus

A master's in business administration with an accounting focus prepares a person to become a certified public accountant, while providing skills a person can use in other finance-related careers (such as a financial analyst).

Doctorate in Accounting

A doctorate in accounting prepares an individual to teach as an accounting professor at the college or university level. A doctorate usually takes between four and five years to complete.

References

• Guide to Accounting Careers
• Accounting Majors
• Accountant Training