Steps to earning an accounting degree include selecting an accredited school, qualifying for admissions, paying tuition fees, and completing coursework. A degree is required for most finance and accounting jobs, and a CPA designation is necessary for opening a private practice or working for large companies. Online schools offer flexibility, but accreditation is important. Qualifications vary, and tuition fees range from $3,500 to $20,000 per year. Specializations are available in the third and fourth years, and completing the CPA program is necessary for many positions.
There are four steps to earning an accounting degree: selecting a school, qualifying for admissions, paying tuition fees, and completing course work. An accounting degree is required for most jobs related to finance and accounting. A degree in accounting is required to become a certified public accountant (CPA). This designation is necessary for those who want to open a private practice as an accountant. Most large companies require this designation for all of their accounting positions.
An accounting degree is available from a wide range of universities, including online schools. It is important to ensure that the school you are considering is accredited. An unaccredited school may offer accounting courses, but would not be able to award a degree or provide access to government aid for students.
Accounting degrees from online schools offer additional flexibility in time management, course load, and learning methods. If you are considering selecting an online school, make sure they are accredited and credits from that school will be accepted by the CPA for your designation. Review the course offering, flexibility and academic credentials carefully.
Qualifications for an accounting degree vary, but generally include high school credits in accounting, mathematics, English and business studies. Mature students looking to earn a degree in accounting can often use workplace experience to help bridge the gap in formal education. If you have completed a certificate or diploma in accounting, additional credits may be awarded towards your degree, reducing the number of courses required.
Tuition fees for an accounting degree vary, but generally range from $3,500 to $20,000 per year. Explore scholarships, bursaries and student government aid to help cover these costs. In addition, there are several job opportunities available in a university environment that pay more and are part of general student finance.
The first and second years of the accounting degree cover standard courses in accounting, finance, communications, business law and economics. There are specialization opportunities in the third and fourth years. Expand your job opportunities by taking a minor in information technology, international trade or economics.
Upon completion of a degree in accounting, most students work toward the CPA designation. This program requires additional courses and work experience after graduation. Upon completion of these requirements, candidates can take the necessary exams to qualify as a CPA. This designation is required to operate a private practice as an accountant. Also, most accountant positions will only hire candidates who are working or have earned their CPA.
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