Pursuing Bachelor’s in accounting opens up a world of career opportunities. With so many options, though, how do you narrow your choice? The right accounting program equips you with knowledge and skills tailored to your professional goals. Whether you want to be a CPA, work in corporate finance, or start your practice, there’s an accounting track out there for you. The key is identifying what you want to achieve and then finding the Bachelor’s program designed to set you up for success.
Importance of a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting
A bachelor’s degree in accounting opens many career opportunities and is considered the baseline credential for most accounting roles. Major companies and public accounting firms typically require at least a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related business field for entry-level accounting jobs.
Some key reasons why a bachelor’s degree is vital if you want to work in accounting:
- Gives you accounting knowledge – You gain a solid accounting knowledge base, including financial accounting, managerial accounting, taxation, auditing, and more. This accounting knowledge prepares you for real-world accounting work.
- Develop technical skills – In an accounting program, you learn to use an accounting software, analyze financial statements, handle bookkeeping, etc. These skills make you much more hirable.
- Better job prospects – A bachelor’s in accounting qualifies you for many more jobs, including public accounting roles like auditor and tax accountant. Most accounting clerk roles require at least a bachelor’s degree.
- Higher earning potential – Accounting pros with a bachelor’s degree tend to earn significantly higher salaries on average than those without a degree. Over a career, this adds up.
Factors to Consider When Selecting a Bachelor’s in Accounting Degree
Mentioned below are the factors you need to consider when choosing a degree of Bachelor’s in accounting:
I. Assessing Your Career Goals
Think about what kind of accounting career you want after you graduate. Do you want to work in public accounting, corporate accounting, government accounting, or something more specialized like forensic accounting? Understanding your goals will help you Pick a program that aligns with your interests and the accounting field you want to enter.
II. Understanding the Curriculum
Look at the courses required for the accounting major and consider how well they prepare you for professional certification exams like the CPA exam. Programs should provide education in financial accounting, managerial accounting, auditing, taxation, and accounting information systems. The curriculum should balance technical skills with communication and critical thinking abilities.
III. Evaluating the Program’s Accreditation
Choose an accounting program accredited by the ACBSP & HLC, which is known for strong accounting curriculum standards. Accreditation ensures quality and rigour in the Bachelor’s program. It also gives your degree external validation and can improve employability after graduation.
IV. Considering Program Format and Flexibility
Determine if you prefer face-to-face instruction or online learning. Also, see if the program offers full-time and part-time study options, as your needs may change over four years. Some flexibility in format and schedules can be beneficial.
V. Evaluating Costs and Financial Aid
Compare tuition costs across programs and determine what percentage of students receive financial aid or scholarships. This can influence affordability. Inquire about departmental scholarships specifically for accounting majors as well.
VI. Exploring Alumni Network and Industry Connections
Programs with strong alumni networks lead to enhanced professional networking and job opportunities. Look for accounting advisory councils that allow industry executives to consult on updating the curriculum. Internship opportunities also pave career pathways.
The Bottom Line
The right accounting degree empowers you with versatile skills and know-how for in-demand accounting careers. Focus on your aspirations, weigh options carefully in terms of cost/benefit, and choose the accredited program that aligns best with your professional goals for a fulfilling future in this dynamic field.
FAQs
1. What accounting jobs require a bachelor’s degree?
Most public accounting, corporate, and government accounting roles require at least a bachelor’s degree.
2. Should I focus on public or corporate accounting?
It depends on your interests. The public concentrates on auditing and taxes, while corporate accounting involves financial reporting and analysis.
3. Does accreditation matter for an accounting degree?
Yes, choose an ACBSP or HLC-accredited program to ensure curriculum quality.
4. Can I work while studying accounting?
Many programs offer flexibility to accommodate working students. You can consider part-time options.
5. What accounting skills will I gain?
These skills include financial/managerial accounting, bookkeeping, accounting software, data analysis, and critical thinking.
6. How much do entry-level accounting jobs pay?
With a bachelor’s degree, average starting salaries for accountants range from $45,000 – $65,000.
