07/15/2025
Understanding the Accounting Career Path
Entering the accounting profession involves multiple steps, including academic study, professional certification options, and practical experience. Understanding the educational pathways, industry certifications, and specialized areas within accounting may help individuals evaluate the options available as they explore this field.
This overview highlights the common steps involved in pursuing work in accounting, from completing a degree program to gaining experience in various professional roles.
Educational Requirements for Accountants: Earning a Bachelor’s Degree
Academic preparation typically begins with earning a bachelor’s degree in accounting. Some individuals may choose related majors such as business administration, finance, or economics; however, an accounting degree generally offers direct exposure to core accounting principles. Coursework may include:
- Financial accounting and managerial accounting
- Auditing and financial reporting
- Tax law and tax accounting
- Business analysis and financial operations
Certain programs may offer concentrations in areas such as forensic accounting, government accounting, or information systems. Students may select courses aligned with their specific academic interests.
Most bachelor’s programs require approximately 120–125 credit hours. In many states, individuals pursuing Certified Public Accountant (CPA) licensure may also complete additional coursework to meet the 150 semester-hour educational requirement.
Internships and Early Experience in Accounting
In addition to classroom instruction, some individuals participate in internships or entry-level roles that allow them to apply accounting principles in organizational settings. These experiences may include:
- Assisting with financial statements and tax return preparation
- Using accounting software to manage financial data
- Working with clients or supervisors on financial records
- Organizing financial documents and reports
Early work experiences may help individuals explore different aspects of accounting such as auditing, tax preparation, or government accounting functions.
How to Earn the CPA Credential
Earning the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is a credential that is commonly pursued by accounting professionals. To become licensed, candidates typically:
- Complete 150 credit hours of education
- Pass the Uniform CPA Examination (CPA Exam)
- Fulfill supervised work experience (usually 1–2 years)
The CPA Exam includes four sections:
- Auditing and Attestation (AUD)
- Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
- Regulation (REG)
- A discipline-focused section such as tax compliance or business analysis
Continuing education is generally required to maintain active CPA licensure, which supports familiarity with evolving tax laws, regulations, and accounting standards.
Other Accounting Certifications and Specializations
While not all accountants pursue the CPA route, other credentials are also widely respected:
- Certified Management Accountant (CMA): A designation often pursued by those interested in financial planning, performance, and strategy in corporate settings.
- Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA): A credential for professionals in management accounting.
- Certified Internal Auditor (CIA): Ideal for those specializing in internal controls and audit practices.
- Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA): A credential some professionals pursue to combine accounting and IT knowledge in support of risk assessment roles.
Specializations such as forensic accounting, tax accounting, and government accounting may also provide focused study in niche areas of the profession. For example, government accountants review and maintain financial records for public institutions and evaluate compliance with financial regulations.
Entry-Level Accounting Job Responsibilities
Individuals may begin their careers in entry-level positions such as staff accountant or junior auditor. Early responsibilities may include:
- Reviewing financial records and transactions
- Assisting with financial reporting and budgeting
- Preparing documentation for tax returns and audits
As experience is gained, responsibilities may expand to include tasks related to financial analysis, audit reviews, or budgeting processes depending on organizational needs.
Graduate Programs in Accounting
Many individuals start with a bachelor’s degree, then pursue advanced degrees such as a master’s degree in accounting or related fields. Graduate programs may include:
- Advanced financial reporting, auditing, and analysis
- Preparation for CPA or CMA examination content
- Specialized coursework in areas such as cost accounting or forensic accounting
Some graduate programs offer flexible or online options that may be suitable for working professionals seeking to balance academic and other responsibilities.
Essential Skills for Accountants
Accounting professionals typically apply both technical and interpersonal skills. Key areas of emphasis may include:
- Analyzing financial data and identifying relevant trends
- Reviewing financial documents for accuracy and compliance
- Communicating financial information clearly to stakeholders
- Applying ethical standards consistent with regulatory expectations, such as those set by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
Adaptability may also be helpful as financial technologies and industry standards continue to evolve.
Where Accountants Work: Key Industry Sectors
Accounting professionals may contribute to financial processes in various sectors, including:
- Public accounting: Auditing, tax preparation, and financial advisory services
- Private businesses: Overseeing financial operations, budgeting, and internal financial reporting
- Government agencies: Managing public funds and supporting regulatory compliance
- Nonprofit organizations and educational institutions: Monitoring financial resources and reporting
Roles may include positions such as cost accountant, tax accountant, internal auditor, or external auditor, depending on organizational needs and individual qualifications.
Timeline to Become an Accountant
The educational and credentialing process for accounting may involve several steps, such as:
- Completing a bachelor’s degree (typically four years)
- Fulfilling CPA education and work experience requirements (often one to two additional years)
- Pursuing graduate-level coursework as needed for advanced specialization
Some individuals may begin working in entry-level accounting positions while concurrently pursuing certification or additional coursework.
Getting Started in Accounting
Individuals interested in accounting may begin by reviewing academic programs that introduce key accounting principles and technical skills. Participation in internships or early work experiences may offer additional exposure to how accounting principles are applied in professional environments.
Professional associations may offer resources such as networking opportunities and industry updates. Certifications such as CPA or CMA may also provide additional pathways for professional development based on individual goals and areas of interest.
Mapping Your Accounting Career Path
The accounting profession includes a combination of academic preparation, applied experience, and optional certification pathways. Foundational knowledge is introduced through bachelor's degrees in accounting and advanced degree programs, while work experience and continuing education support ongoing skill development.
Individuals may apply accounting knowledge in areas such as public accounting, forensic investigations, corporate financial operations, or governmental financial services. While academic and professional pathways vary, accounting practice generally emphasizes strong technical skills, regulatory awareness, and attention to financial accuracy.
CPA® is a registered trademark of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. CPA licensure requirements vary by state and may include additional conditions beyond education and examination, such as background checks or ethics coursework.
