In any business, an accountant is needed. You have to consider that accounting is the language of business, and having enough knowledge about accountancy is essential for businessmen and women to know how their business is doing. This is why accounting professionals are very much in demand today. And many certified accountants have become quite successful in their field, and some have even started their businesses.
The great thing about this career is that it will enable you to interact with all levels of business and learn a lot from it.
So, what does it take to become an accountant and follow this career?
First, you need to know about the eligibility to become an accountant.
It would be best if you were a graduate with a 4-year bachelor’s degree in accountancy or any related field. Aside from this, an accountant should have good analytical and technical expertise in business systems. Good mathematical aptitude is also a must-have for accountants. And, because computers are now one of the most used medium in computing, you should also have the knowledge and the operating skills of a computer.
Another requirement is that you will need a bachelor’s degree with a minor in another subject. This should be taken from an accredited college or university for you to apply for a Master’s in accounting.
You can also pursue this career if you had your course in accounting over distance learning programs or through the internet.
Also, you will need an accreditation or license from a particular organization, such as being a CPA should have a license from the STA or the State Board of Accountancy.
Most companies also require that you complete a number of semester hours and work hours, which are considered for a 4-year bachelor’s degree. If you become a public accountant, you will be taken as a trainee. You will usually start your career as a junior internal auditor or cost accountant.
It is recommended that you should have a master’s degree in business administration or an MBA because it is preferred by more companies who are looking for accountants as part of their employees.
The great thing about pursuing accountancy is that it presents many career opportunities. For example, you can get a job as an auditor or accountant in government offices or private companies even if you do not have a license.
During your career, you can even get promoted to a position, such as the chief financial officer position, which presents many more great opportunities for your career.
You can also work in the legal office. You can work as an auditor, a financial officer, a budget analyst, a management accountant, and even as a tax accountant. Most companies looking for tax accountants will prefer accountants with legal backgrounds.
Forensic accounting is another promising career for accountants. Here, you will investigate crimes, such as company finances fraud.
If you have a knack for teaching, you can teach a subject related to accountancy in college. This is a great career option, and many accountants feel that this job is fulfilling.
Just remember that in this profession, you have to start slow. If you are beginning a career as an accountant, try to start as a trainee and work your way up to the career path you want to take.
Accounting or accountancy is a promising career that presents many great opportunities. You can be sure you will find the right career you want if you take this type of career.