A Career in Accounting is a Wise Choice

Good accountants are in demand in many parts of the country. According to statistics, the accountancy field is growing at a rapid rate. In 2006 the US Bureau of Labor Statistics believed there were 1,274,000 working accountants in different industries including nonprofit organizations, colleges and schools, local and state government, online businesses and of course traditional business corporations. For math and number loving college graduates, this is great news. In addition, the more technologically savvy the graduate the better his or hers chances of landing a great job sooner.

While a Master's degree will increase your chances of a higher paying job in accounting, having a bachelor's degree still opens many opportunities. Moreover, becoming a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) will even further expand your chances of landing a killer job.

The salary of an accountant can vary depending on whom you ask and in what part of the country you work. On the low-end of the scale a staff accountant might make anywhere from $35,000 to $45,000 a year. A more managerial or partner position could fetch you $70,000 to $80,000 a year. And that does not include the perks and other bonuses that can be bestowed on an accountant working for a good company.

To become a CPA each State issues a Uniform CPA Examination that is delivered in four parts. The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants prepares this exam and it is not easy. However, the examinee does not have to pass all four parts at the same time. Most states do want the applicant to finish all four sections within 18 months but the parts can be broken up and taken separately. This can it make it easier to focus specific study for the test sections.

All but four states also require the candidates to complete 150 hours of course work. This has been in effect since 2009 when all but four states adapted the requirements.

A good accountant should have several skills. Being able to perform tax preparation, bookkeeping, project management and carry out company audits are key components of being a sought after accountant. An accounting career requires the accountant to keep current on technology, updated tax laws, and the latest accounting business practices. The ever-changing laws are what continue to keep demand high for good accountants. The constant changing of the laws and technological advances help the career stay in high demand and give excellent job security for candidates looking at this vocation.

If you were just starting your education in college, looking at an accounting major or minor would be a smart move. The demand for accounting skills will only increase. It is not going to decrease in the coming years. It would be more secure to invest your time in than becoming an econ major. We personally do not know a single economic or political science major who is working in the fields they went to school for so why not consider accounting? Occasionally, it takes fewer years to graduate with an accounting degree. Obviously getting better grades will help you land a better job. By paying your dues now and working hard in school, you could in a few short years play an important role in large corporation or business of your choice.

Opportunities for accountants seem endless. We did not even mention the possibilities of working around the world. The number of new businesses growing worldwide proves to the constant and growing need for accountants. It seems everywhere needs good accountants. Accounting is an integral part of any business. Without good accounting, a business will not be successful in the end. At every company, someone must be in charge of accounting and that person could be you.

Tim Willis enjoys freshwater fishing and camping. He escapes to the wild anytime he can. Most of his writing deals outdoor life or health issues. Lately his wife has got him interested in writing for her site about vintage western boots and Lucchese womens boots. He does whatever it takes to make his wife happy or he sleeps on the couch.