Seven Steps to Become an Accountant

A career as an accountant involves working with numbers, computers, finance and people. Accounting is a conservative career in the financial industry and requires a love of numbers, math and problem-solving as well as attention to detail and knowledge of accounting practices. Accountants hold various positions in business, from clerk to supervisor to auditor to controller to chief financial officer, and generally need at least a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance or business. Seven steps to becoming an accountant start in high school with career exploration.

Career Exploration

If you like numbers, math, balancing your checking account and planning a budget, accounting may be a good career choice for you. Accounting requires specific credentials, knowledge and training. The first step to become an accountant is career exploration, including reading about accounting careers, talking to an accountant about the work and accounting career paths, learning what education is required and taking at least one accounting aptitude test. Career exploration can be done at any time, but high school is an ideal time.

Take Introductory Accounting Classes

If you are sure that accounting is the right career for you after career exploration, start learning about it by taking business and accounting and finance classes. A good time to do this is in high school, to prepare for college accounting coursework and to gain familiarity with basic accounting principles and practices. If you are out of high school and working, evening, take weekend or online accounting classes.

Complete a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting or Finance

Most accountant positions require at least a bachelor's degree, and many advanced accounting roles such as controller and CFO require advanced education. A bachelor's degree normally requires four years, but some accelerated programs can be completed in three years.

Get a Job in Accounting

It is very beneficial while studying accounting to work in accounting or a related position, such as banking, insurance or tax preparation. High school students interested in accounting should try to get summer or weekend jobs that involve handling money, such as bank teller or cashier, or temporary office work in accounting or inventory departments. College students should try to obtain internships in accounting while studying for an accounting degree, or work in an entry-level accounting role if possible.

Consider Professional Certification

Accounting students completing a four-year accounting degree should consider taking the CPA exam or other accounting certification or licensing to distinguish themselves in the job market. Certified public accountants are qualified to do work that those without a CPA license cannot do, such as file reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Network with Accounting Professionals

Seek mentors and relationships with accounting professionals while studying accounting and seeking accounting jobs. Talk to people in the accounting industry about their work and their companies.

Join an Accounting Industry Association

Join an accounting industry association such as the Institute of Management Accountants, the Institute of Internal Auditors or the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. They offer advanced accounting certifications, continuing education and valuable accounting industry and career resources.

References

• United States Bureau of Labor Statistics; Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition; Accountants and Auditors; 2011
• "The Inside Track to Careers in Accounting"; Stan Ross et al.; 2010