How to Train for an Accounting Career

With the right training and experience, accountants can choose from a wide variety of job opportunities.

Detail-oriented people with excellent math and communication skills should consider the high earning potential and job opportunities that a career in accounting can offer. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job opportunities available within this field will increase by 22 percent through the year 2018, resulting in a high demand for well trained accounting professionals. The BLS predicts that obtaining the right training can lead to more career advancement opportunities. A 2008 BLS report stated that some accountants earned less than $36,720, while others earned more than $102,380 a year. Follow the steps below to begin training for a career in accounting.

Things You'll Need

• High School Diploma or GED

Instructions

1. Conduct research on accounting career options and requirements. Accountants have the opportunity to work in a wide variety of industries from nonprofit agencies to the government, but they must have some additional skills to qualify for these jobs. For example, a career in government accounting may require accountants to take legal and public administration courses in addition to basic accounting courses. Prospective accountants can conduct their research by reviewing accounting job postings to get a better idea of the required job skills and opportunities available within each industry.

2. Enroll in an accredited accounting degree program. Most entry level positions in this field require accountants to have a bachelor's degree. Degree programs are available at colleges and online schools accredited by a regional accreditation agency or the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Degree programs should include courses in general, cost and financial accounting. The degree program should also prepare students to obtain a national certification.

3. Complete an internship. Accounting students can receive additional training, practice their skills and gain valuable work experience by completing an internship. Both summer and short-term internship opportunities are available through public accounting firms to students with good academic records. Accounting students can contact their school's career services department or local accounting firms to inquire about internship programs.

4. Obtain an accounting certification. Obtaining a professional designation allows accounting graduates to advance their careers and earn higher salaries. According to the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), certified public accountants can earn 10 percent to 15 percent more in entry-level positions. Accounting graduates can become certified as financial planners, internal auditors, public and management accountants, but they must meet the exam, education and experience requirements. Accountants should learn more about the certification options and the requirements by contacting the AICPA, the Institute of Management Accountants or the Institute of Internal Auditors. (See the "Resources" section of this article.)

References

• CPA Training Center: How to Become an Accountant
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Accountants and Auditors
• starttheregoplaces: Government
• braintrack: Accounting Degree Programs
• accountingmajors: Accounting Internships @ the Big 4 Public Accounting Firms

Resources

• The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
• The Institute of Management Accountants
• Institute of Internal Auditors