This certification process includes an exam and requires education and experience.Īlso referred to as management accountants and private accountants, corporate accountants work with companies and organizations to manage financial records and transactions, such as payroll, accounts receivable, accounts payable, financial analysis, and asset management. Certifications: Accountants who sign and file documents with the Securities and Exchange Commission for their clients must hold CPA designation.Salary: Accountants and auditors working for accounting, tax preparation, bookkeeping, and payroll services earned a median annual salary of $70,500 as of 2018.Accounting majors can also specialize in areas such as forensic accounting. Trends: As companies expand into overseas markets, accountants and auditors may need knowledge and skills related to international business and finance.CPAs enjoy stronger hiring potential, as do accountants with master's degrees. Demand: Employment for accountants and auditors is projected to grow by 6% from 2018-2028, on par with the average growth rate for all occupations, according to the BLS.Their primary role involves reviewing financial information, preparing related reports, and maintaining financial records. Public accountants and auditors may work for accounting firms or establish their own private practices. They might also pursue chartered financial analyst certification from the CFA Institute to increase job prospects. Certifications: Financial analysts should earn licensure from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority.Salary: The BLS reports that financial analysts earn a median annual wage of $85,660, with the top 10% of earners making over $167,420 per year.Demand: BLS projections show a 6% increase in financial analyst positions from 2018-2028, which would add 20,300 positions during that time frame.Financial analysts may work independently, for small firms, or for larger corporations. Financial Analystįinancial analysts review the finances of individuals and businesses and provide counsel on areas like stocks and bonds, among other types of investments. Accounting majors often become financial analysts, as well. Others find careers as cost estimators and take home $65,250 per year, per BLS data. Some graduates work as tax examiners, earning a median annual salary of $54,890, according to the BLS. Professionals with just a bachelor's in accounting still qualify for lucrative careers. Some careers, such as forensic accountant and internal auditor, require specific certifications. Accountants can further bolster their resumes with certifications, as well. Aspiring CPAs must earn at least a bachelor's degree and complete either a CPA certification program or a master's in accounting to qualify for the CPA exam.Įven accountants who do not plan to become CPAs benefit from master's or doctoral degrees in accounting, which increase salary potential and lead to new job opportunities. Many accounting firms prefer to hire CPAs. Bachelor's in accounting graduates often continue their education to become certified public accountants (CPAs). Future Accounting EducationĪ bachelor's in accounting opens doors to advanced education opportunities. The degree also provides a solid foundation for further study. Many jobs, including accountant and auditor positions, require at least a bachelor's in accounting, so this degree creates career opportunities for graduates. Why Get a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting?
This guide explores career options for bachelor's in accounting graduates in addition to what to expect when earning the degree and how to choose the best bachelor's in accounting program. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that accountants and auditors make a median annual wage of $71,550. Each degree features its own curriculum, but they all prepare learners for careers in business. Colleges and universities offer several types of bachelor's in accounting, such as a bachelor of science, bachelor of business administration, and bachelor of arts. What Is a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting?Ī bachelor's in accounting is typically a 4-year degree program that can lead to various business roles, including careers as accountants and auditors.