The exam tests for ethics, independence and professional skepticism, which is an iterative process that requires a critical eye when questioning audit evidence. These vary by state, so make sure to research the specific CPA requirements for the state in which you plan to take the exam. It’s important to note that you do not have to practice in the same state where you take the exam. Your CPA exam scores can be transferred to another jurisdiction to get a license. Accountants perform essential tasks across all industries, and their pay matches that responsibility. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) places accountants and auditors in the same category.

• If you want to be an accountant, then you need to major in (you guessed it!) accounting.
• They can work as public accountants, tax specialists, financial advisors, or auditors.
• Or, you can work toward qualifying as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or obtaining your MBA, which usually requires additional hours and continuing education.
• The most common certification in the United States is the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation.
• Accounting is a central part of what makes the business world tick.

Many accountants work in tax preparation, bookkeeping, and payroll services. Accountants can work for large companies, in small businesses, or as self-employed professionals. Every accountant follows a different path, but for many, the process takes about six years.

Get relevant accounting work experience

Be certain to understand the requirements in your state and any states you intend to work in to ensure your license is accepted. Find your state’s Board of Accountancy and review its website to get clarity on what you’ll need to do. When you become a CPA, you can be responsible for preparing financial statements for your clients and filing reports with the SEC.

• Here’s a list of the 12 best accounting schools in the United States.
• CPA exam candidates do not need formal work experience to take the test.
• Rasmussen University may not prepare students for all positions featured within this content.
• Earning the CPA credential opens doors to high-paying, advanced accounting careers in numerous industries.
• However, prospective accountants interested in career advancement benefit from holding at least a bachelor’s degree.
• Joining these clubs can give you great networking opportunities as well as ways to learn more about the accounting field.

The earning potential for accounting careers depends on your experience, location, and industry. According to BLS data from May 2021, accountants earn a median pay of $77,250. Accountants working in finance and industry report salaries above the what is an accountant median while those in tax preparation and payroll services report slightly lower salaries. Many universities also offer graduate-level accounting programs online, including graduate certificates in accounting and master’s in accounting programs.

How To Become An Accountant: A Step-By-Step Guide

Other than CPAs, accountants do not need a graduate degree, and some grad school alternatives can also provide career advancement. A bachelor’s degree meets the entry-level education requirement for careers in accounting. College grads can improve their job search by gaining hands-on experience with an internship, taking advantage of networking opportunities, and improving their interview skills. The field includes roles like certified public accountant (CPA), management accountant, forensic accountant, and government accountant.

Once you have a job lined up, be an exceptional employee and learn all you can from the work. There are also things you can do outside of the classroom to help prepare for your future accounting career. Having extracurriculars that relate https://www.bookstime.com/ to your interest in accounting will show colleges that you’re committed to and excited about your future career. One way to show this is to join business-related clubs your high school offers, or start your own if none currently exist.