An Accounting Education Leads to Career Success, Period.
Accounting is a central pillar in the field of business. A degree in Accounting from an accredited school is often the only education needed to reach the uppermost ranks of business success, including high-end management positions such as CFO, or even CEO.
Accounting school graduates are also typically offered higher salaries than most other graduates. Salary figures for 2008 show entry-level Accounting degree holders earning around $45k, compared to around $30k for most other career paths. More experienced Accountants are typically in the $70k range or higher. With greater experience and connections, high-level Accountants can earn well over $100k annually.
The first step to success is the right Accounting education. With Accounting schools near you offering reputable, affordable degrees, it's easy to find the Accounting education you're looking for whether it's through a nearby campus or a flexible online program. With experience, CPA certification and other professional credentials, you can start building an unstoppable career today.
To learn about Accounting degrees near you and start on your future career today, use the search form above to connect with top Accounting schools in your area.
*Please Note: Program outcomes vary according to each institution's specific curriculum and employment opportunities are not guaranteed
Accountant Job Description
Accountants manage finances and finance-based decisions for companies, corporations and individuals. Specific duties vary greatly depending on specialty and experience.
Entry-level accountants are usually responsible for bookkeeping, balancing and financial reporting, while more experienced accountants may oversee large accounts, make financial decisions and recommendations, or even provide limited legal counsel for their employers.
There are four main branches within the field of Accounting:
Public Accounting - These Accountants operate out of a public practice, and are hired by clients ranging from large corporations to private individuals.
Management Accounting - Management Accountants are employed by a single company, for which they do all accounting and bookkeeping internally.
Government Accounting - Government Accountants work in the public sector, but manage the finances of government organizations and businesses regulated by government.
Internal Auditing - These Accountants are usually employed by a firm or corporation, reviewing the work of other accountants for errors, waste or mismanagement.
To learn more about the different areas of Accounting and where you can take your Accounting education, get more information about Accounting degrees near you using the school search form above.
Accounting Training
Accounting program graduates entering major companies usually hold bachelor's or master's degrees in Accounting, while Accounting students going into small business may graduate with an associate's degree. The training you receive depends on the direction you wish to take your Accounting education, and the career direction you wish to pursue afterward.
Some common subjects studied in Accounting training programs are:
- Accounting Principles
- Macro & Micro Economics
- Administration & Management
- Risk Management
- Customer & Client Relations
- Finance Law
Many Accounting schools offer their degree programs online, making it easier for working adults or students with families to adjust their education schedule to match their life needs.
Accountant Salary
Accountants earn a national average of $68,960 annually, with the highest-paid earning over $106,880, according to the US Labor Bureau. Accountants earn more with experience and credentials such as CPA certification. Salaries vary by industry, employer and region.
Average salaries for the most popular Accounting industries are:
| Industry | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Consulting Services | $74,860 |
| Tax/Bookkeeping/Payroll | $74,250 |
| Management | $68,760 |
| Local Government | $59,190 |
| State Government | $56,460 |
Figures courtesy of the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Employment & Wages database.
To learn how you can earn higher salaries in Accounting, get more information from Accounting schools in your area today using the form above.
Accounting Job Outlook
Accountant employment is expected to grow 22% by 2018, a much faster rate than most occupations, according to the US Labor B
Accountant employment is expected to grow 22% by 2018, a much faster rate than most occupations, according to the US Labor Bureau.
Job growth is due mostly to increases in the number of businesses needing accounting services, as well as greater regulation and scrutiny of corporate finances. As a result of greater demand, Accounting degree holders are also earning higher salaries than in previous years.
Learn more about degrees in Accounting today by requesting more information from schools in your area using the search form above.
