Accounting Careers

Accounting Overview

An accounting career focuses on the organizing, tracking, and statement of financial information within or on behalf of a company or public agency. Accountants also assist decision-makers within these companies and agencies with fund allocation. There are many different branches of accounting and many sub-disciplines within each branch. Qualification requirements vary widely by state or country.

Employment Opportunities

Accounting professionals work in a wide range of positions, including:

• Auditing
• Certified Public Accounting (CPA)
• Chartered Accounting
• Certified Bookkeeping (CB)
• Forensic Accounting

Skills

Accounting professionals utilize a wide range of capabilities, including:

• Organization
• Attention to detail
• Computer software knowledge
• Educational focus in math and business
• Strong analytical skills

Industry Spotlight

Accounting is one of the most populated workforces in the economy, and analysts are predicting that accounting positions will continue to grow by 12% through 2016. Despite its size, accounting isn’t as competitive as other careers with a similar level of popularity. This is partially due to the high number of temporary and part-time positions, which will continue to be as prevalent as full-time.

- Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2008