Credit Your Success
To a Career in Accounting
Why is Accounting a Great Career Choice?
Accountants bring home a median annual wage of $63,550 with the bottom 10% earning less than $39,930 and the top 10% earning more than $111,150. Bottom Line, a career in accounting has great earning potential.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment of accountants to grow by 13% from 2012-2022. This forecast means a career in accounting is as stable as they come. (1)
Career Salary
Median annual wage for accountants is almost twice as high than the median annual wage for all other occupations. (1)
Career Satisfaction
Career advancement in accounting is almost guaranteed with hard work and dedication. (3)
Career Outlook
Employment of accountants is slightly higher than the national average for all other occupations. (1)
What It's Like to Have a Career in Accounting
What Accountants Do...
Accountants are generally tasked with examining and preparing financial records. They are also involved in many aspects of daily business operations such as planning and budgeting. An accountant's duties typically includes:
- Analyzing financial statements to assure they are accurate and in compliance with laws and regulations
- Providing tax related services such as tax planning and preparation of tax returns
- Inspect accounting books and systems to assure they are following generally accepted accounting principles
- Preparation and filing of financial records
- Advising management on financial operations
- Perform cost and profit analysis (1)
Where Accountants Work...
Accountants can either work alone or in teams. They generally perform their work in offices and sometimes travel to their client's business. The table provides a list of industries where most accountants are employed. (1)
How to Become an Accountant...
Most accountants typically have a bachelor's degree in accounting or other business-related field. Obtaining a Master's in Accounting, Taxation, or Business Administration is also not uncommon. Contact your college adviser to find out how to earn a degree in accounting. (1)
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)...
Becoming a CPA can further advance your accounting career. Most big public accounting firms actually only hire candidates who are able to sit for the CPA exam. In order to become a CPA, requirements differ from state to state but generally, you will need to take additional accounting credits and pass a uniform four-part CPA exam. (2)