Accounting

Nature of the Industry

Accountants help everyone from private individuals to large corporations to government agencies organize, analyze, and confirm financial documents. They keep public records and prepare tax forms. In addition, they may analyze budgets and make recommendations for financial planning and investment. Increasingly, accountants perform these tasks with the aid of specialized computer software. Accountants may be self-employed, or they may work for large firms. Accounting jobs fall into four fields: the public, management, government, or internal affairs. Public accountants work for a variety of clients and specialize in many financial areas, including taxes, salaries and benefits, and investments. Some public accountants work as forensic accountants, working with law enforcement officials to investigate financial crimes. Management accountants work for one company and are responsible for budgets, financial growth and planning, and report preparation. Government accountants oversee the financial records of clients who are subject to government regulation. Internal accountants work for one company and are responsible for identifying poor financial management, waste, or fraud. Overall, forecasters expect accounting jobs to increase at an above-moderate rate during the next several years. Prospects are especially good for certified accountants. The projected growth in accounting jobs may be due to business growth, modifications to financial laws and regulations, and a demand for financial accountability.

Types of Jobs

Accounting jobs include the following: accountants, auditors, bookkeepers, budget or financial analysts, cost estimators, financial advisors, loan officers, and tax agents.

Training and Education

To obtain an accounting job, a person must possess skills in the following areas: mathematics, verbal and written communication, and technology. Typically, an accountant must hold a bachelor's degree in accounting. Additionally, an accountant should become a certified public accountant (CPA) by passing the national Uniform CPA Examination and fulfilling other state-specific requirements. There are other certifications available through professional organizations. Such certifications provide for specialization and help ensure promotions in the workplace. Entry-level accounting jobs may be available to those who have completed community college programs or internships.