How to Become an Accountant

Have a knack for all things analytical and love attention to detail? Looking to develop a deep understanding of financial principles and complex financial data? A career in accounting may be right for you.

This comprehensive guide on how to become an accountant will cover everything you need to know from how long it takes to become an accountant to what you can expect on the job.

Accountant Salary

The average salary of an accountant in the USA can vary based on factors such as experience, qualifications, location, industry, and the specific role or job description of the accountant. 

According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in May 2021, the median annual wage for accountants and auditors was US$77,250. 

In 2020, the average annual wage for those working in the U.S. was close to US$69,000 meaning that an Accountants wage is generally higher than the national average.

What does an Accountant do?

As an accountant, you will specialize in managing and analyzing financial information. This can be for individuals, businesses, organizations, or government entities.

In short, it’s an office job that involves keeping track of finances and working with numbers.

The details of an accountant’s job description and exactly what you can expect to do on a day-to-day basis may vary a great deal. But in most cases, you will, in your primary role as an accountant, go over financial records to ensure their accuracy and legality. As an accountant, you can also be expected to provide valuable insights and guidance for decision-making.

You are ideal for the accountant’s job description if you pick up small discrepancies, make decisions quickly and based on the facts before you, and can deal with the stress that comes along with the position.

Accountant Career Progression

• Entry-Level/Junior Accountant: As an Entry-level or Junior Accountant, you will be expected to do basic bookkeeping tasks, data entry, and financial record maintenance. This work will likely be more tedious than that of your seniors, but it is all a necessity, and often the first step in the accounting process.
• Staff Accountant: As a Staff Accountant, you will be involved in preparing financial statements, analyzing accounts, and assisting with audits. You will likely rely on a team that includes some Junior positions to capture data for you and will be required to communicate with your coworkers.
• Senior Accountant: As a Senior accountant you will have many additional responsibilities, such as supervising junior staff, managing financial reporting processes, and providing financial insights to management. The position is more people-orientated but still relies heavily on you working with numbers yourself.
• Accounting Manager/Assistant Controller: If you manage to become an Accounting Manager, you will be required to oversee the accounting operations of a department or organization. Manage a team, ensure compliance with accounting standards, and contribute to financial strategy and planning.
• Financial Controller: As a Financial controller you will have a broader responsibility for an organization’s financial activities. You will be involved with overseeing financial reporting, budgeting, and internal controls, and may supervise multiple accounting departments.
• Chief Financial Officer (CFO): If you manage to reach an executive level, you can become a CFO. In this role, you will provide strategic financial leadership, manage financial risks, and work closely with the CEO and board of directors to make critical business decisions.

Useful Skills to have as an Accountant

• Attention to Detail
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills
• Analytical Thinking
• Ethical Conduct
• Time Management and Organization

Popular Accounting Specialties

• Public Accountant
• Internal Auditor
• Financial Analyst
• Tax Accountant
• Forensic Accountant

The steps to becoming an accountant can vary depending on your country and the specific requirements or the type of accounting position that you are considering. But, here is a general outline of the typical steps involved in pursuing a career as an accountant.

These steps also denote how long it takes to become an accountant: As you can see, to become an accountant can range from four to six years or more. If you dislike constantly learning new things, this may be a problem though. Being an accountant will require ongoing professional development and continuing your education is important so that you can stay up to date with regulations, industry practices, and emerging trends.

So what exactly do you need to get started when becoming an accountant? What kind of additional qualifications will you need to be considered for promotions? Let’s look at a step-by-step process to simplify all of these answers.

Get a High School Diploma or Equivalent

The first step is to complete high school or get a recognized equivalent qualification, such as a General Educational Development (GED) certificate.

A high school diploma is important if you want to consider pursuing a career in accounting because it provides foundational knowledge in subjects like math and English. It is also a prerequisite for higher education, demonstrates a commitment to employers, fulfills legal requirements for certifications, and opens doors to professional development opportunities.

It is almost impossible to find a job as an accountant without a high school diploma.

Pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting or Finance

Why Is It Important to Get an Accounting or Finance Degree?

Obtaining an accounting or finance degree further strengthens your expertise in the field. Most accounting positions require at least a degree in accounting or finance so you might have some trouble applying for positions if you do not have one.

A degree is also important because it fulfills educational requirements for professional accreditations. In other words, it allows you to get a certification.

More practically, however, you will benefit from a degree because it offers application opportunities, facilitates networking, broadens career prospects, and will give you the opportunity to advance

An accounting or finance degree will help you build the necessary skills and qualifications to excel in various accounting and finance roles and enhance your professional standing in the industry.

How long does it take to get a degree in Accounting?

Are you interested in becoming a qualified accountant through a degree? This is probably the best way to go about entering the field. But, unfortunately, the process is far from quick.

It takes four years of full-time study to complete a bachelor’s degree program in accounting, finance, or related fields. Coursework often covers topics such as financial accounting, managerial accounting, auditing, taxation, business law, and economics.

How much does it cost to study Accounting at University?

The cost of a university degree to become an accountant can vary depending on various factors, including the institution you choose, the type of degree program (bachelor’s or master’s), whether you attend an in-state or out-of-state institution, and whether you qualify for any scholarships or financial aid. Here are some key considerations:

Tuition fees for a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance and Accounting can cost as little as $5,000 per year, or well over $13,000 per year depending on where you study. Then there are also other costs that you will probably need to cover, such as additional materials (textbooks, software, etc.) and living expenses.

Is a Masters Degree in Accounting worth it?

It is not always required. But many people choose to pursue a master’s degree in accounting or a related field to enhance their knowledge and qualifications. Why should you consider getting a master’s degree? How long does a master’s degree take? Is it really worth it?

A master’s degree program takes one to two years to complete and may provide advanced coursework in specialized areas of accounting.

Obtaining a master’s degree in accounting can give you a big advantage when it comes to advancing your career in the field. But why do companies require it for certain accounting positions?

Firstly, a master’s degree provides specialized knowledge and expertise in accounting principles, practices, and advanced topics. This specialized knowledge can make you more competitive in the job market because it enhances your ability to tackle complex accounting challenges in various industries.

Secondly, a master’s degree in accounting can significantly expand job opportunities. Many employers, particularly larger firms, financial institutions, and consulting companies, often prefer candidates with advanced degrees for senior-level positions or specialized roles.

Overall, a master’s degree offers the opportunity for you to advance your career, increase your earning potential, and gives you the ability to specialize in specific areas of accounting based on personal interests and career goals.

Gain Practical Experience

Many aspiring accountants start their careers by gaining relevant work experience in public accounting firms, corporate accounting departments, government agencies, or nonprofit organizations.

According to Glassdoor, Junior Accounting positions such as this offer an average of about US$51,000 in May 2023. Although this may not be as high-paying as later positions, this experience allows you to apply your knowledge in practical settings and develop a deeper understanding of accounting principles and procedures.

After at least three years of experience, Senior Accountant positions may become available for you. According to Glassdoor, these positions pay up to US$88 000 in 2023.

It is important to consider whether you can get practical experience while studying as this may influence how long it takes you to become an accountant.

What Skills will I learn as an Accountant?

Practical experience in the role gives you knowledge and real-world learning. This means that you develop both hard and soft skills relevant to the accounting profession.

Hard skills refer to specific technical abilities and knowledge, while soft skills are interpersonal and personal attributes that enable effective communication and collaboration.

Here are some hard skills you’ll want to learn as an Accountant:

• Financial Analysis: The ability to analyze financial data, interpret financial statements, and identify trends or patterns is essential for accountants. Although you can learn a lot from textbooks, encountering real-world circumstances under the guidance of a more experienced coworker will build this skill very quickly.
• Accounting Software Skill: You need to be familiar with software such as QuickBooks, SAP, or other industry-specific accounting tools. This software can be incredibly simple or quite complex depending on the specific requirements of your job.
• Auditing: Understanding auditing procedures, internal controls, and risk assessment is important for accountants involved in auditing functions. This includes knowledge of auditing standards and methodologies. You need to make sure that you always keep up to date with any changes on these.
• Taxation: As an accountant, you will almost always need to know about tax laws, regulations, and tax planning strategies is necessary for accountants involved in tax-related roles. This includes understanding tax compliance, deductions, credits, and the preparation of tax returns. This can be rather complex and provides a good opportunity for specialization.
• Financial Reporting: Regardless of your position, you need to be proficient in preparing financial statements, such as balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements, according to applicable accounting standards (e.g., GAAP or IFRS). This is a core skill for accountants.
• Data Analysis and Spreadsheet Skills: Strong skills in data analysis and spreadsheet software, particularly Microsoft Excel, will be essential if you become an accountant. This includes the ability to manage and manipulate large sets of financial data, perform calculations, and create reports.

Here are some soft skills that will help you excel as an accountant:

• Attention to Detail
• Communication Skills
• Analytical Thinking
• Ethical Conduct
• Time Management and Organization
• Teamwork and Collaboration
• Problem-Solving Abilities
• Adaptability and Continuous Learning

Best Aspects of Working as an Accountant

Working as an accountant has its own set of advantages and challenges. Even though it is not a particularly exciting job, there are many things about being an accountant that might appeal to you. Let’s look at the best aspects of the job.

• Job Stability: Accounting is an in-demand profession. There is a consistent need for accountants in various industries. This can provide you with job security and a sense of stability.
• Career Opportunities: As an accountant, you will have diverse career paths and opportunities. You could work in public accounting firms, corporations, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations. Even as an independent consultant. The field offers potential for advancement and specialization.
• Intellectual Challenge: Accounting requires constant analytical thinking and will really stretch your problem-solving skills. The profession often involves complex financial transactions and regulations. This can provide you with intellectual stimulation and continuous learning opportunities.
• Transferable Skills: As an accountant, you will develop valuable skills such as financial analysis, attention to detail, organization, and critical thinking. These skills can apply to various roles within the financial and business sectors. They can also help you transfer to another field entirely.
• Financial Reward: As an accountant, you may earn a lot of money, particularly as you gain experience and advance in your career. Certified accountants, such as Certified Public Accountants (CPAs), often command higher salaries and have increased earning potential.

Worst Aspects of Working As An Accountant

Even though there are many good things to be said about the accounting profession, knowing what you might hate about the job can be even more important. Depending on the type of role that you are in, the negatives of your job as an accountant may vary. Here are some of the worst aspects of working as an accountant that you should know about.

• Long Hours: During certain times of the year, such as tax season or year-end close, you will probably have to work really long hours and have tight deadlines. This can result in work-related stress and impact your work-life balance.
• Monotonous Tasks: Some aspects of your day as an accountant, such as repetitive data entry or reconciliations, can be monotonous and routine. This can lead to a lack of variety in daily tasks, particularly in certain entry-level positions.
• Pressure and Responsibility: As an accountant, you will have significant responsibility for the accuracy and integrity of financial information. Mistakes or oversights can have legal, financial, or reputational consequences for individuals or organizations. Unfortunately, this makes the position quite stressful.
• Regulatory Changes: The field of accounting is subject to regular updates and changes in accounting standards, tax laws, and financial regulations. As an accountant, you will need to stay updated with these changes and adapt their practices.
• Seasonal Workload: You will often experience seasonal fluctuations in your workload and job description. Certain periods, such as tax season or month-end closing, can be particularly demanding, while other times may be less intense. Balancing workload and managing peak periods can be challenging.

What is the Work-Life Balance of an Accountant?

The work-life balance of an accountant can vary depending on several factors, including the specific job role, industry, company culture, and individual work preferences. Some positions can be very good, while others result in extreme stress and even burnout. Here are some considerations regarding work-life balance for accountants:

• Busy Periods: You need to prepare yourself to experience busy periods during certain times of the year, such as tax season or the end of the fiscal year. During these periods, the workload may be higher, and you may need to work longer hours to meet deadlines. This can temporarily impact work-life balance during these peak periods.
• Regular Hours: Outside of busy periods, you will probably find that you work regular hours, typically Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. You may have the opportunity to maintain a consistent work schedule and enjoy weekends and evenings off, which contributes to a better work-life balance.
• Flexibility: Some accounting positions offer flexibility in terms of work hours or remote work arrangements. This flexibility can allow you to better manage your work-life balance by adjusting your schedule to accommodate personal commitments or preferences.

Get Professional Accountant Certifications

In many jurisdictions, including the United States, aspiring accountants need to fulfill specific experience requirements to get professional certifications or become licensed. But why are these professional certifications even necessary? Which ones should you get? Are they very difficult to acquire?

Why You Should Get a Professional Accountant Certification

Obtaining professional accounting certifications offers several benefits and opportunities compared to having just a bachelor’s degree in accounting. Here are some reasons why you should consider pursuing accounting certifications:

• Enhanced Career Opportunities: Professional certifications, such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), distinguish you from other candidates in the job market. They demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field, making you a preferred candidate for accounting and finance positions. Certifications can open doors to higher-level roles, increased responsibilities, and better career prospects.
• Expanded Knowledge and Skills: Accounting certifications require additional coursework, exams, and practical experience beyond what is covered in a bachelor’s degree program. This process deepens your knowledge and hones your skills in specific areas of accounting, such as auditing, taxation, financial analysis, or management accounting. The rigorous certification process ensures that you possess a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter, making you a well-rounded professional.
• Increased Earning Potential: Holding accounting certifications often leads to higher earning potential. Certified professionals generally command higher salaries and have better negotiation power during job offers and promotions. Employers value the specialized knowledge and expertise that come with certifications, which can translate into increased financial rewards.

Depending on your career goals and the specific requirements of your country or region, you may choose to pursue professional certifications. The most common certification in the United States is the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation.

How difficult is it to get a CPA certification?

Obtaining the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification is considered quite challenging due to its rigorous requirements and comprehensive examination. The difficulty level can vary depending on any prior knowledge that you have, your study habits, and dedication to the preparation process. Here are some factors that contribute to the perceived difficulty of the CPA exam:

• Extensive Exam Content: The CPA exam consists of four sections: Auditing and Attestation (AUD), Business Environment and Concepts (BEC), Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR), and Regulation (REG). Each section covers a broad range of topics, requiring candidates to have a deep understanding of accounting principles, auditing procedures, business concepts, taxation regulations, and professional ethics.
• Time Commitment: The CPA exam requires a significant time commitment for studying and preparation. You will probably need to spend several hundred hours of focused study to adequately cover the exam content, all while balancing work or other commitments alongside exam preparation can make the process more challenging.
• Pass Rates: Unfortunately, the pass rate of the CPA exam is only around 50-60% for each section, indicating the difficulty level. These pass rates highlight the importance of thorough preparation and a comprehensive understanding of the exam content.
• Exam Format: The CPA exam is a computer-based test that includes multiple-choice questions, task-based simulations, and written communication tasks. The combination of different question formats can make it difficult to apply to the knowledge that you have.

Even though the CPA exam is notoriously difficult, this should not discourage you from pursuing the certification. The CPA designation carries significant professional recognition and opens doors to diverse career opportunities in accounting, audit, taxation, finance, and other related fields.

There are many web resources available that can help you learn and develop skills to become an accountant and get your CPA:

• AccountingCoach: AccountingCoach is a comprehensive online resource that provides free tutorials, articles, and quizzes to help you learn accounting concepts. It covers topics ranging from basic accounting principles to more advanced financial analysis.
• American Institute of CPAs (AICPA): The AICPA website offers resources for accounting professionals, including webinars, articles, and publications. They provide valuable insights into industry trends, technical updates, and professional development opportunities.
• Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB): FASB is the organization responsible for establishing and improving accounting standards in the United States. Their website gives you access to accounting standards, interpretations, and implementation guidance, which can be helpful for understanding and applying accounting principles.

Become a Specialist Accountant or Work Towards a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) position

At this stage, your career as an accountant could go down many different paths based on your interest and work experience.

Going down the path of a specialized accountant, such as a forensic or tax accountant, allows you to develop deep expertise and potentially become a sought-after professional in your chosen field.

Aiming to become a company’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is a great goal if you have a broader interest in finance and management or aspire to hold a leadership position. CFO’s play a strategic role in an organization’s financial decision-making, oversee financial operations, provide guidance on financial strategies, and work closely with other executives to drive the organization’s success.

While ultimately this choice depends on your personal preferences and career goals. Remember that career paths can evolve, and you can switch or transition between roles throughout your professional journey

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What Are the Job Opportunities of an Accountant?

Once you’ve completed your studies, certifications, and gained real-world experience. You’ll have a range of job opportunities available across various industries and sectors as an accountant.

Here are some common roles for accountants that you could explore:

• Public Accounting: Public accountants work for accounting firms that offer services to clients such as auditing, tax preparation and planning, financial consulting, and compliance. In this position, you can be exposed to a wide range of industries and clients. This makes Public Accounting a popular choice for those seeking diverse experiences.
• Financial Accounting: As a financial accountant you will need to focus on preparing financial statements, such as balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements, to provide an accurate and comprehensive view of an organization’s financial performance. You will also be involved with your company’s compliance with accounting principles and reporting standards.
• Management Accounting: Management accountants work within organizations and provide financial information and analysis to support internal decision-making. If you become a management accountant you will help with budgeting, cost analysis, performance evaluation, and strategic planning to aid management in making informed business decisions.
• Forensic Accounting: Forensic accountants specialize in detecting and preventing financial fraud, conducting investigations, and analyzing financial data for legal purposes. In this position, you may work on cases involving disputes, litigation, insurance claims, or financial crimes. You will need a particularly keen eye, and be prepared to find even the smallest discrepancies.
• Tax Accounting: As a tax accountant you will focus on tax planning, compliance, and preparation of tax returns. You might work for individual people as personal accountants, or for businesses and organizations. It is especially important as a tax accountant that you stay updated with tax laws and regulations to ensure accurate reporting and identify tax-saving strategies.
• Auditing: Auditors examine financial records, statements, and internal controls to provide an independent and goal assessment of an organization’s financial operations. In this position, your job might entail ensuring compliance with laws and regulations, identifying potential risks, and providing recommendations for improvement.
• Government Accounting: Government accountants work in governmental organizations, agencies, or public sector entities. As a government accountant, you will be responsible for ensuring compliance with governmental accounting standards.
• Internal Auditing: if you become an internal auditor, you will work within organizations to test internal controls, risk management processes, and operational efficiency. You will need to provide recommendations to enhance internal processes and ensure compliance with policies and regulations.
• Financial Analysis: Financial analysts analyze financial data, market trends, and investment opportunities to provide insights and recommendations for investment decisions, valuation, risk assessment, and portfolio management. This is an ideal position for you if you enjoy working with trends and statistics, and have a very analytical mind.
• Sustainability Accounting: Sustainability accountants focus on integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into financial reporting and decision-making. You would mostly assess the impact of an organization’s activities on sustainability goals and contribute to sustainability reporting initiatives.

It’s important to note that these specialties are not exclusive, and if you become an accountant you may have expertise in many areas. Specialization often occurs as you gain experience, pursue advanced education or certifications, and focus your career in specific industries or areas of interest.

What Type of Companies Hire an Accountant?

One of the best aspects of working as an accountant is that the role is in demand across almost all types of companies and organizations. There are a couple of different places where you could look for an accounting job. Which is the best for you ultimately comes down to personal preference.

Here are some examples of companies that you could work with as an accountant:

• Accounting Firms: Public accounting firms, including the Big Four (Deloitte, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Ernst & Young, and KPMG), May hire you to provide auditing, tax, and consulting services to clients. These firms work with a diverse range of clients, including businesses, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies.
• Corporations: Large corporations and multinational companies have internal accounting departments. If you work here you will handle financial reporting, budgeting, and compliance. You will ensure accurate financial records, analyze financial data, and provide insights for decision-making.
• Financial Institutions: Banks, investment firms, insurance companies, and other financial institutions employ accountants for financial reporting, risk management, regulatory compliance, and internal control functions. If you work for one of these institutions as an accountant, you will need to navigate complex financial transactions and adhere to industry-specific regulations.
• Government Agencies: Government entities at the federal, state, and local levels may hire you as an accountant to handle financial management, budgeting, auditing, and compliance. Government accountants work in departments such as the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), or municipal finance departments.
• Nonprofit Organizations: Nonprofit organizations, such as charities, will hire accountants to manage their finances, prepare financial statements, and ensure compliance with nonprofit accounting standards.
• Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs): As an accountant, you may play a crucial role in SMEs by handling financial management, bookkeeping, and tax compliance. Many small businesses rely on accountants for financial planning, cash flow management, and financial decision-making.
• Consulting Firms: Management consulting firms often have specialized accounting divisions that provide financial advisory and consulting services to clients. If you want to be hired by one of these firms you will need to build up expertise in areas such as financial analysis, process improvement, and risk management.
• Startups and Entrepreneurial Ventures: Accountants are essential for startups and entrepreneurial ventures to manage their finances, create financial projections, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. Startups often hire accountants to establish financial systems and assist with fundraising efforts.
• Educational Institutions: Universities, colleges, and educational institutions employ accountants to handle their financial operations, manage budgets, and ensure compliance with accounting regulations specific to the education sector.
• Manufacturing and Retail Companies: Accountants in manufacturing and retail companies are responsible for inventory management, cost analysis, and financial reporting. They assist in tracking production costs, analyzing profit margins, and ensuring accurate financial records.

These are some of the most popular positions that you can expect to encounter when looking for a job as an accountant. Your decision on which suits you better can be based solely on the nature of the position. Many accountants also work for specific companies that they believe in.

The career outlook for accountants in the USA is generally positive. There is a steady demand for accounting professionals across various industries. Here are some key statistics and resources about the career outlook of accountants:

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a growth of employment estimated at 6% between 2021 and 2031. But there are some key factors that you need to take into account that may improve your likelihood of getting a job as an accountant:

• Increasing Complexity: As businesses and financial systems become more complex, the need for skilled accountants who can navigate and interpret financial data continues to grow. As an accountant, you will play a crucial role in areas such as financial reporting, tax compliance, auditing, and financial analysis.
• Specialized Skills: If you develop specialized skills and expertise, such as forensic accounting, information systems auditing, and international accounting, you may have particularly strong career prospects. Developing expertise in emerging areas such as data analytics and technology-driven accounting can also enhance your career opportunities.
• Professional Designations: Pursuing professional certifications, such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Management Accountant (CMA), can enhance your career prospects and open up more advanced roles and opportunities.
• Industry Demand: Accountants work across various industries, including public accounting firms, corporate organizations, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and consulting firms. The specific demand can vary depending on industry trends and economic conditions.

The best thing that you can do to ensure your future career is to stay updated with industry trends, acquire in-demand skills, and continue professional development. This can help you stay competitive in the job market.

So, now you know the in-and-outs of what it might take to pursue a career as an accountant. It’s time to take careful consideration of the key factors that make this job fulfilling and enjoyable.

Firstly, reflect on your skills, interests, and long-term objectives to determine if working with numbers and analyzing financial data aligns with your strengths and aspirations.

Next, research the responsibilities, qualifications, and growth opportunities associated with the role, and seek advice from professionals in the field. Consider the potential for career progression, job satisfaction, and financial rewards.

Additionally, weigh the stability and specialization of being a specialist accountant against the versatility and leadership potential of a CFO role.

Remember that career paths can evolve, so stay open to new opportunities and be prepared for potential transitions.

Continue reading:

• 15 Most Common Accountant Interview Questions and Answers
• How to Become a Management Accountant
• Top 10 Accounting Interview Questions and Answers
• Top 15 Accounting Degree Jobs