Accounting Careers: a Great Outlook in Every Economy 

The field of accounting can be broken down into two major areas: management accounting, and financial accounting. If you want to pursue a career in accounting, here is something else you should know: with a projected 22% increase in jobs, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts accounting will experience much faster than average job growth over the coming years.*

From prosperity to recession, accountants are in high demand

When the economy is growing, new and expanding businesses rely on accountants to support planning and operations. When facing tough economic times, businesses focused on tracking expenses and identifying areas for improvement again look to accountants. What’s the bottom line? An accounting professional with current credentials has excellent job security and opportunity in every phase of the economic cycle.

Accounting career qualifications and training

Employers look for a complex skill set in a candidate for an accounting position, beginning with the following: 

• Proficiency in accounting and business software applications
• Knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, tax law, payroll accounting, accounts receivable, accounts payable and inventory processes
• Excellent communication, organizational and teamwork skills

Education. Associate (two-year) degrees and technical diplomas are excellent preparation for entry-level bookkeeping and accounting clerk positions, as well as for home-based or agency tax preparation. Many corporations require job candidates to hold bachelor's degrees and may expect an MBA or similar degree for promotion to management. More on accounting degrees...

Certifications. Accounting certifications verify that the holder has specific skill sets. Typically a certification such as the CMA or CPA will have educational and experience requirements in addition to an exam.

Typical accounting career job titles for entry-level and experienced accounting professionals:

• Tax and business consultant
• Personal financial consultant
• Staff Accountant/Account Manager
• Auditor
• Bookkeeper
• Payroll clerk
• Accounts payable/receivable clerk
• Collection agent
• Loan officer
• Financial analyst

More on accounting careers and education

For more current information on the accounting careers and degree programs and placement rates for graduates of accounting programs at Globe University/Minnesota School of Business, call 1-877-655-7676 or request information through this site.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition