As an Accounting & Related Services major, you'll learn the skills needed to work as a certified public accountant (CPA), bookkeeper, auditing clerk, tax accountant, accounts payable clerk, government accountant and management accountant. You can expect to crunch a lot of numbers to record, analyze and evaluate financial information for both organizations and individuals.

Accounting & Related Services majors usually pursue associate and bachelor's degrees from college, universities, technical schools and online schools. Some certificate programs are available for both bachelor degree-holders and students without any previous post secondary education. Graduate students can seek a master's degree in Accounting & Related Services.

To excel in Accounting & Related Services you should be good with numbers, organized and have an excellent eye for details and accuracy. Even though you'll spend a good part of your day looking at number, you'll also need communication skills to convey your recommendations and results.

Prospective Accounting & Related Services majors should also explore Accounting, Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping, Accounting and Business/Management, Accounting and Finance, Accounting and Related Services and Auditing.

Choosing a Accounting & Related Services Colleges

There's no shortage of reputable Accounting & Related Services programs at technical schools, online schools, career colleges, community colleges, 4-year colleges and universities nationwide. If you're interested in becoming a CPA, make sure prospective programs will prepare you to pass the exam and ask about passing rates of recent graduates. Some programs in this major focus more on accounting theories, while others focus more on analysis—make sure the program you choose provides the education you desire. Also, ask about internship opportunities and career services, both of which can be invaluable for a successful career.

Accounting & Related Services Degree Programs

College and university bachelor's degrees are common for Accounting & Related Services majors. Employers often require 4-year degrees to begin work as an accountant or auditor—without one you may be at a disadvantage for top paying positions. During this program you'll study subjects such as accounting, auditing, business law, tax accounting and relevant computer applications.

Associate career training degrees and certificate programs from online schools, community colleges, career colleges and technical schools prepare Accounting & Related Services students for careers as junior accountants. Often, these programs also focus on lower-level accounting careers as accounting clerks or bookkeepers.

College and university master's degrees are becoming more desirable in the field of Accounting & Related Services. Many employers prefer a graduate degree for internal auditing positions and other accounting and auditor positions.

Online Accounting & Related Services Degree Programs at Online Schools

If you want to go to study Accounting & Related Services on a flexible schedule, consider online degree programs. Whether you want to earn a certificate, associate degree, bachelor's degree or master's degree you can find a reputable online school.

High School Preparation

If you hope to study Accounting & Related Services in college, hit the books hard in accounting, economics and calculus. Computer skills and communication skills are important to focus on, too. Extracurricular activities related to business such as running for class treasurer or joining Junior Achievement will look great on your college applications.

Popular Careers in the Field of Accounting & Related Services

The employment outlook for careers in Accounting & Related Services is expected to be excellent over the next decade, especially for college degree-holders. Beyond accountants and auditors, careers include tax accountant, government auditor, management accountant, internal auditor, and tax examiners, collectors and revenue agents. Jobs exist in corporations and government offices as well as with tax and accounting service firms. Annual salaries range from $42,000 to $72,000 on average.

Accounting & Related Services professionals who earn a CPA can expect the best job prospects, though other professional certifications will increase employment opportunities and earning potential, too. Proficiency in accounting and auditing software programs also will give you an edge. Career advancement often leads to roles as financial vice presidents, chief financial officers, financial analysts, budget analysts, financial managers, treasurers and controllers.

Associate degrees and certificates in Accounting & Related Services lead to careers as clerks in bookkeeping, auditing and accounting. Salaries generally fall between $24,000 and $38,000 per year. For individuals without a bachelor's degree, boasting a wide range of accounting skills such as booking, billing and payroll will help you get the best jobs. You should also keep up with the latest accounting software.