In order to receive the high salary that accountants boast, you'll need to gain a Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related area like business. You may also gain a certification (called the CPA exam) that will allow you many more opportunities.
Related Accountant Salary Articles:
Accounting Career
Accounting is a major aspect of all types of businesses. Even in today’s difficult economy, accountants are in high demand; all business still need to track their finances, file tax returns, and keep their public records properly. The following information can help you decide whether a job in the accounting field is right for you.
Traits needed for Accountants:
The most important trait for an account is having strong analytical skills. Knowledge of computers, especially of various accounting programs, is essential as well. Accountants should also be able to communicate well with others, and they need to have the ability to work long hours and concentrate on a task for a lengthy period of time.
Accounting Job Duties:
The duties of an account vary greatly depending on the type of accounting job. The four major accounting areas include public, management and governmental accounting, as well as internal auditing. Some of the common tasks of accountants include keeping accounting ledgers, preparing financial statements, budgeting, financial decision-making, preparing tax returns, paying sales tax, and controlling business costs.
Accounting Training:
Most accounting jobs require, at minimum, a bachelor’s degree in accounting or similar field. Bookkeepers and accounting clerks may be able to advance to junior accounting positions in their companies if they show sufficient ability.
In order to become a certified public accountant (CPA), additional coursework is required after completing a bachelor’s program, and candidates must pass a comprehensive examination. In addition, most states require that an applicant for a CPA license have at least two years’ experience working in the accounting field.
Accounting Job Outlook:
Accountants are always in high demand, even now when the economy is suffering. Job prospects for skilled professionals are excellent; companies tend to prefer applicants who have a master’s degree in accounting or a master’s degree in business with a concentration in accounting.
Salaries vary depending on the type of accounting job. The median starting salary for accountants is approximately $49,000 per year, with the top professionals earning up to $110,000 annually.
