Accountant At Work

Recently, we discussed what kind of jobs you can get with an accounting degree, and whether or not an accounting degree is truly worth it. Here, we'll go more in-depth about how to become an accountant.

In this post, we'll talk about the differences between bachelor's and master's programs in accounting, explore the degrees and certifications you could consider pursuing to advance your career goals, and explain why getting your accounting degree online is an excellent idea.

If you have a mind for numbers and problem solving, and you make a habit of weighing the long-term implications of short-term financial decisions, then accounting might be the right career path for you.  

After you've learned about the many reasons to get your Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Accounting, fill out our information request form to receive additional details about our 100% online Accounting Master's program. If you're ready to get started, submit your application today.

Is Accounting a Good Career?

Accounting is a great career choice, and according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for accountants is quite promising: The number of positions is expected to grow 10% through 2026—a much higher rate than the average for all occupations.

Here are a few additional reasons why accounting should be near the top of your list for potential career options:

  • Salary Potential. According to third-party data, CSU Global B.S. in Accounting alumni saw an average salary increase of 94% five years after graduation. The average salary at the time of graduation was $47,920; five years later it was $93,250.
  • Work in Your Field. Only around a third of American degree-holders work in a job related to their major. However, 90% of alumni from our Bachelor's in Accounting program report working in the field, while 93% of our Master’s in Accounting alumni report the same.
  • Several Job Options. Accounting is a broad industry, and depending on your career objectives and willingness to pursue additional certifications, you could choose from several different career paths.

What Accountants Actually Do

Modern-day accounting is no longer merely crunching numbers with a calculator at hand.

Today, accountants play crucial roles in virtually every industry, serving as valued and trusted team members who are responsible for keeping, managing, and interpreting financial records.

Depending on their accounting specializations and the specific roles they find in organizations, accountants may be responsible for any of the following tasks:

  • Preparing, analyzing, and confirming the accuracy of financial records.
  • Paying taxes and preparing returns.
  • Organizing financial records.
  • Identifying ways to improve the bottom line by reducing costs or increasing value.

Do I Need a Degree to Become an Accountant?

Although it is possible to find an accounting position without a degree, getting a bachelor's or master's degree in accounting is likely to make finding a job, and succeeding in that role, an easier process.

Not only will your training provide you with a more extensive and deeper understanding of the field and its best practices, but you’ll also enter the industry with academic credentials that could help convince a hiring manager to lean your direction when choosing an appropriate candidate.

Even if your desired position doesn’t demand an accounting degree, getting your B.S. or M.S. in the field is a great idea. It will help prepare you for the unique challenges and tasks you’ll face working as a professional accountant.

Simply put, getting a degree in accounting will ensure that you have spent the time and effort needed to develop the skills and knowledge required to serve as accountant, allowing you to bring immediate value to any organization.

Which Accounting Degree Should I Get?

Choosing the right accounting degree largely depends on your professional goals, background working in the industry (or not working in it), and previously completed educational credentials.

You’ll need to choose the program that is most in line with your experience and career objectives; this answer may be different for everyone.

Why Choose a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting?

Getting a bachelor's degree in accounting will help you learn the basics of the industry and improve your skills. It's a perfect option if you don't have much experience in the field or if you don’t already have a bachelor’s in another area.

A bachelor's degree is also typically the minimum educational requirement for many accounting positions, making it a great way to get your foot in the door for entry-level positions in the field.

Why Choose a Master’s Degree in Accounting?

If you're already a working accountant but would like to advance your career, getting a master's degree could be the right choice for you.

A master's degree in accounting is likely to better prepare you for managerial and leadership roles within the industry, and getting your master’s is a great way to advance your career into more senior-level positions.

Also, if you already have a Bachelor’s in Accounting, or in any other subject, then you’ll probably want to consider the Master’s so you can skip all of the general education requirements and instead focus all of your efforts specifically on accounting and finance topics.

What Can I Do With a Bachelor's in Accounting?

Successfully completing a bachelor's degree in accounting is a wise career move for anyone looking to enter the field.

Here are some of the most promising positions bachelor’s in accounting alumni can look forward to pursuing:

As a bachelor's degree holder, you'll be able to make compliant and ethical decisions for your organization and exhibit business intelligence that will help you tackle any organizational management issues.

Ultimately, earning an accounting bachelor’s degree will increase the odds that you can provide value to any role requiring work in a financial capacity.

What Can I Do With a Master's in Accounting?

Getting a master's degree in accounting will ensure that you have the most updated information on best practices, financial concepts, economic principles, and financial law.

A master's degree is best suited for those individuals looking for managerial roles in the field, so graduate program alumni can expect to pursue positions like:

Holding a master's degree in accounting from CSU Global will ensure that you’ve got the skills, knowledge, and abilities needed to reach your career goals, whatever they might be.

With the advanced knowledge and practice that comes with a master's degree, you'll be well prepared to help your clients reduce costs and increase profits in any industry.

Which Advanced Accounting Licenses and Certifications Should I Consider?

A bachelor's or master's degree in accounting is an excellent way to take your first step into the accounting world, but accounting licenses and certifications can prepare you for more advanced opportunities in the industry. 

The skills and practice you’ll receive during a degree program will build a strong foundation of accounting knowledge, but with additional training and experience, you may want to consider sitting for the following certifications:

  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA). CPAs serve as consultants on financial issues, like simple accounting and taxes. They generally work with companies, nonprofit organizations, and individuals.
  • Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA). This certification is suitable for those who are interested in the investment management industry. CFAs will help individuals invest their money wisely and deal with trading and asset management.
  • Certified Management Accountant (CMA). This certification qualifies accountants to guide companies and businesses in making business financial decisions and analyzing internal budgets for review.
  • Enrolled Agent (EA). Licensed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the EA certification is the IRS's top credential. EAs work only with tax issues.
  • Certified Financial Services Auditor (CFSA). Essentially, a CFSA is an auditor for strictly financial institutions like banks, insurance companies, and, yes, even other financial services.
  • Certified Internal Auditor (CIA). This certification will prepare you to become an internal auditor. The accreditation will allow even entry-level auditors to hold titles like financial analyst, auditing specialist, risk assessment specialist, and more.
  • Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE). This certification will allow accountants to study financial records to find evidence of fraud. They may even work with law enforcement and review government contracts to prevent fraud.
  • Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA). This distinguished certification is one of the top designations a financial expert can possess. Essentially, a CGMA will help manage business actions based on financial expertise.

Is a Degree In Accounting Really Worth It?

Getting a degree in accounting, whether you choose to pursue a master's degree or a bachelor's degree, is definitely worth it.

The skills and knowledge you gain as part of your program will prepare you for a career in this challenging but rewarding industry.

Why You Should Consider a Bachelor's in Accounting

Getting your Bachelor's Degree in Accounting from CSU Global will ensure that you develop a deep understanding of budgeting, accounting, and financial fundamentals that could help secure you a place as a future leader in the field.

You'll gain a deeper understanding of organizational management, marketing, and even quantitative decision-making skills, making you a valuable member of the financial community.

Why You Should Consider a Master's in Accounting

If you’re looking to climb the career ladder, then getting your Master's Degree in Accounting from CSU Global is one of the best ways to work on accomplishing your career goals.

Because the master's degree focuses more on managerial tasks, you will graduate well-prepared for leadership roles at private companies, public corporations, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies.

Earning your M.S. in Accounting will help ensure that you are at the forefront of the latest strategies in diverse areas of accounting while also providing you with the foundational knowledge needed to pursue more advanced licenses and certifications.

In short, getting a master's degree in accounting is likely to enhance your skills, experience, and marketability.

Can I get my Accounting Degree Online?

Yes, you can get a regionally accredited and widely respected Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Accounting online from CSU Global.

Our 100% online accounting degree programs are designed to offer as much flexibility as possible, including:

  • Zero requirements to show up at set times or in physical locations.
  • Monthly class starts.
  • Accelerated 8-week courses.

If you have family and work responsibilities, and you need to balance them with educational pursuits, then getting your degree online from CSU Global may be the ideal option.

Why Should I Pick CSU Global's Online Accounting Program?

CSU Global's online accounting programs offer incredible value and excellent educational credentials.

Our programs are regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and ACBSP Accredited by the Council of Business Schools and Programs, so you can expect only the best in educational quality.

Both the B.S. and M.S. programs were designed to be completed 100% online, and our expert instructors have been fully trained to make online learning a superb experience for all students.

Reasons to Choose a Bachelor's in Accounting from CSU Global

CSU Global is an excellent choice if you’re looking for an online college for accounting- and we have the credentials to prove it. 

Our Bachelor of Science in Accounting program has earned endorsement by IMA® (Institute of Management Accountants), one of the largest and most respected associations focused exclusively on advancing the management accounting profession. IMA’s Endorsement of Higher Education initiative recognizes programs that meet high educational standards, enabling students to pursue and earn the CMA® (Certified Management Accountant) credential.

In addition, our Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting recently earned several awards, including:

  • A #1 ranking on The 50 Best Online Bachelors in Accounting Programs from Accounting.com.
  • A #1 ranking on The 30 Best Bachelor's in Accounting Online from Best College Reviews.
  • A #2 ranking on The 20 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting Degrees from Great Business Schools.
  • A #4 ranking on Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting Degree Programs from College Consensus.

Reasons to Choose the Master's in Accounting from CSU Global

Getting your Master's Degree in Accounting from CSU Global ensures that you will develop the skills, knowledge, and experience needed to assume leadership and managerial positions in the field.

Furthermore, CSU Global’s program is widely regarded as being one of the best in the nation, as our M.S. in Accounting program recently received several excellent rankings, including:

  • A #1 ranking in Best Online Master's in Accounting Degree Programs from Intelligent.
  • A #1 ranking on 25 Best Master's in Forensic Accounting from Best Master Programs.
  • A #3 ranking on Top 15 Most Affordable Masters in Forensic Accounting Online Programs from Best Colleges.
  • A #4 ranking on The Best Accounting Degree Programs from Best Value Schools.

CSU Global also offers competitive tuition rates, as well as a Tuition Guarantee to ensure your rate won't increase as long as you remain enrolled. 

To get additional details about our fully accredited, 100% online degrees in accounting, please give us a call at (800) 462-7845, or fill out our Information Request Form.

Ready to get started today? Apply now!