Numbers Add Up for Trained Accountants and CPAs
The nightly news always seems to be full of stories about corporate scandals involving questionable uses of funds. The great corporate demand these days is for trained, ethical accountants, and accounting schools are working hard to fill the need by providing accountant programs and courses that result in degrees, diplomas, and certificates.
Accountant training will help you choose your specialty in this critical, booming industry.
- Public accountants perform all types of accounting for government agencies, corporations, large and small businesses, nonprofit organizations, and individuals. Many public accountants give their career an extra boost by earning the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation
- Management accountants are part of corporate executive teams responsible for strategic planning and development
- Government accountants at every level of government make up a large percentage of all accountants. They maintain their agencies' fiscal records and may audit individuals' and businesses' tax payments
- Internal auditors ensure that the business or nonprofit they work for is operating effectively, efficiently, and honestly
Accountant and CPA Jobs Growing Faster than Average
In 2006, accountants and auditors held about 1.274 million jobs, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Because of stricter regulations, changing laws, and stockholders' increasing demand for fiscal accountability, BLS expects strong growth of 18 percent in the accounting field between 2006 and 2016. This means that more than 226,000 new accountants will be hired.
The median salary of accountants and auditors in 2008 was $59,430. Those with four-year degrees in an accountant program.gov and a CPA designation, usually earn considerably more than their peers with two-year degrees.
Although most accounting jobs require at least a bachelor's degree, even courses and classes earning you a diploma or certificate from an accredited accounting school will help you get your foot in the door. Accountant training can make the numbers add up for you!