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Accounting Schools

There was a time when being an accountant meant this: A number cruncher, with a mundane job restricted to a cubicle; proficiency in the use of a calculator, communication and any sort of sense of humor not required.

But that was then. This is now:

Energetic problem solver with the ability to provide consultation on business operations and strategies including financial operations. Excellent interpersonal skills, technology savvy with proficiency in advanced financial tools. A dynamic individual with exceptional critical and analytical thinking skills.

Getting Into an Accounting Program
Opportunities with an Accounting Degree
Why Study Accounting?

Featured Schools

The field of accounting has certainly come a long way. An accountant is no longer a number crunching machine, sitting among high stacks of files. With growing litigation and the complexity of new legal requirements, employers need qualified professionals to satisfy auditors and compliance standards. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), a degree in accounting is the second most sought after degree by employers, with around 59% saying that they would hire accounting graduates during 2012.

Getting Into an Accounting Program

To be admitted into an accounting school for an undergraduate degree, you will need at least a high school diploma or GED. One option for you is to pursue an associate degree program. This is a smaller duration program under which you will be typically required to complete 60 semester hours of courses, including both general education and accounting specific courses.

The second option is a bachelor’s of accounting program. A bachelor in accounting would generally require the successful completion of 120 credit hours, inclusive of general courses. Other requirements for this degree may vary from university to university. Most of the high ranked institutions admit students with a strong GPA and high college admission test scores. Extra-curricular activities are considered a plus point by many colleges. A bachelor’s degree with a concentration in accounting could be a Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Business Administration degree.

At the master’s level, students basically have four options:

Master of Science
Master of Arts
Master of Accountancy (MAcc)
MBA with a concentration in accounting

Master’s programs are usually very competitive to get into, and your undergraduate GPA, GRE scores, academic references and in certain cases, your work experience, counts significantly. The minimum number of credit hours The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) requires for a master’s in accounting is 30, out of which 21 must be accounting related.

To be able to take the CPA exam, nearly every state requires a minimum of 150 credit hours of college. Students generally take the exam after completing a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

As for a PhD program, the selection procedure is rigorous. You may need outstanding academic credentials at the undergraduate and graduate levels, exceptional GRE scores and multiple academic and professional references to be accepted into a PhD program. It usually takes several years to complete a PhD program, including coursework, one-on-one work with your faculty advisor, and an independent research in your dissertation.

Opportunities with an Accounting Degree

A degree in accounting may not guarantee a job in the field but those who have been hired in 2014 are earning the average starting salary of $52,900, according to Andrea Koncz, NACE employment information manager. She went on to say,

“[Accounting salaries] have steadily been on the rise; not with huge increases every year, but small-to-modest ones. I believe even when the market was absolutely horrible, they rose slightly or stayed the same.”

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the 2012 median annual pay was $63,550 for accountants and auditors and the job growth was 13%, as fast as the average job growth. Below is a list of the potential jobs you may get with an accounting degree:

Auditors: Auditors can either work as part of a big company or individually. Their job is to carefully analyze the accounting statements of companies that hire them. They can work internally or externally. Internal auditors work for a specific company as an employee, advising them on how to allocate their resources more efficiently. On the other hand, external auditors may conduct the periodic audit of one or more firms.

Tax Accountants: These work with companies to assist them in minimizing their taxable income by keeping track of income and expenses. Tax accountants are required to remain updated on tax laws in order to make sure that they are providing the companies with the most relevant and beneficial advice.

Management Accountants: These accountants are responsible for keeping track of the company’s balance sheet, and their daily functions. They work with the top management to determine how major game changing decisions will affect the bottom line. They research into potential markets for the company’s future expansion plans.

Government Accountants: As the name suggests, these accountants work for various government agencies, determining how much money they can bring in each year from taxes, fees and other revenue sources.

Financial Advisors: Accountants can serve as financial advisors for people who don’t know much about managing their financial assets. They provide advisory services to their clients on how to decrease tax liabilities by putting their money into certain types of investments.

Why Study Accounting?

In an otherwise tough job market, accountant employment rates continue to soar. According to the 2014 Salary Guide: Accounting & Finance from Robert Half, 2013, starting salaries in accounting and finance are set to rise by 3.4%, with financial and business analysts, entry-level accountants and internal auditors being the positions in highest demand. This is what Paul McDonald, senior executive director for Robert Half had to say about accounting jobs:

“Companies also are commonly finding a dearth of candidates for highly sought roles, and they need to enhance their compensation offerings to attract – and then retain – top performers”.

He went on to add:

“With the big data push, companies are looking to hire accounting and finance professionals who don't just analyze the data, but who can tell the complete story behind them and make strategic recommendations to the organization”.

So throw out whatever image that you may have had of accountants; today they’re high powered professionals with strong prospects of growth.

What programs are being offered in the accounting business schools?
After graduating from accounting schools what kind of jobs will I have?
What courses or degrees do the accountant schools offer?

Frequently Asked Question(s)

Q:The Accounting schools Excite has listed are quite attractive but my question is, for the Public accountants courses, is a degree qualification better than a professional certification like CPA?

A:There is a definite edge that the Accounting schools Excite has to offer can get you over any certification. First off, a proper undergraduate or graduate degree in fields like Accounting and Finance are always more safe and recognized globally. Even though qualifications such as the Certified Public Accountants is a highly acclaimed certification, it still is a certification by the end of the day, hence does not have that much credible recognition in this regards. We would advice you to opt for such certifications after you are done with the degree programs.

Q:What programs are being offered in the accounting business schools?

A:Accounting Business schools offer various certificate, associate, bachelor, master and doctoral programs in a number of specialization areas. Students can choose from the following specialties: financial accounting, managerial accounting, business administration, tax accounting, auditing, business accounting, and various others. Courses for each program depend on the chosen area of specialization.

Q:What are the programs being offered in the Accounting Information Systems schools?

A:Accounting Information Systems schools offer a number of specialized courses in certificate, associate, bachelor, master, and doctoral programs. Certificate and associate programs are introductory courses allowing students to enter the workforce at the earliest. The bachelor's program offers students comprehensive knowledge and skills regarding the specialization. The Master's program is a professional degree offering students management level job positions.

Q:Which courses are taught in Accountant classes in Memphis TN?

A:The courses that you will get to study in Accountant Classes in Memphis TN depend on the program you opt for. The common courses you might come across include, business & professional communication, governmental and institutional accounting, accounting information systems, financial accounting, taxation of corporations and partnerships, financial management and non-public accounting.

Q:While searching for Accounting accredited colleges in Columbus, I came across Business Law course. Can you tell me a little about it?

A:It is common to come across Business Law course while going through Accounting accredited colleges in Columbus. In this course the students get to study the American law and legal studies related to business management. The students also get the skills of conducting legal research with given secondary and primary sources.

Q:After graduating from accounting schools what kind of jobs will I have?

A:There are many lucrative job prospects for individuals who graduate from accounting schools. You can find work at Private firms, Public accounting bodies, government agencies, nonprofit organizations and international entities. Other rewarding career choices as an accountant are Internal Auditor, Internal Audit Manager and senior internal auditor. You can apply for senior positions once you gain more experience.

Q:Which are some of the top accounting schools and programs across the U.S?

A:You can find numerous outstanding accounting schools listed on our website. But remember that when choosing a good accounting school, make sure it offers these basic degree programs: Associate's Degree in Accounting, Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Master's Degree in Accounting. While pursuing these degree programs students will get to study subjects like principles of accounting and income tax laws to name a few.

Q:Normally which accreditation institute is responsible for the accreditation of some of the best accounting Schools?

A:Accounting schools across the globe are accredited by the AACSB. This is an international accrediting agency that is authorized to accredit undergraduate and graduate level accounting programs. Accounting schools must renew their AACSB accreditation every five years. If you plan on pursuing accounting degree programs, make sure the college you apply for has been accredited by AACSB.

Q:While I was searching for accredited accounting schools online. I came across AACSB, what is this?

A:AACSB is an accrediting agency for accounting schools and colleges. It is known as the Association to Advanced Collegiate Schools of Business. This organization provides detailed guidelines for accounting courses, and also offers review services. It is recommended that students wishing to enroll in accounting courses should opt for accounting institutes that have been accredited by the AACSB.

Q:While I was searching for the top 10 accounting schools, I came across accounting subjects included in most programs. Can you name a few?

A:The subjects included in accounting programs will depend upon the level of degree. Most general topics studied in this field have been mentioned here: financial accounting, intermediate accounting, financial management, budgeting, banking reconciliation, financial statements, book keeping, and ledgers. Now you can opt for accounting programs online through accredited accounting schools.

Q:Will it affect my future prospects if I earn my degree from Online Accounting Schools?

A:Studying online for an accounting degree or any other degree is completely acceptable and actually encouraged since online education suites the busy schedules' of people already earning a living, plus online education is much more affordable too. However, with any degree being earned online, it is important to check if it is accredited and acceptable by other institutes and organizations in the country.

Q:could you tell me about the eligibility criteria of school for accounting online?

A:If you are contemplating enrolling in an accounting school, you will need a High School Diploma or GED. You will also need to have an exceptional inclination for numbers and accounting itself. Further on this aptitude will come in handy when you get completely engrossed in this field. It is also good to have done an internship in this field, since even the slightest edge could make all the difference in deciding you future in this field.

Q:What degrees do online schools for accounting teach?

A:Online schools of accounting offer a variety of degree programs. Students have the options of pursuing an associate's degree, a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in accounting. Online programs offer a lot of convenience to students. Students can study whenever they want and whatever they want without disrupting their normal routines.

Q:Should I check the accreditation status of the accounting school I plan to enroll in?

A:Yes, it is recommended that you check the accreditation of the school and the programs it is offering. Unaccredited degrees have little value in the job market. There are a number of associations across the nation that accredits accounting education courses. For more information about accounting schools, browse through our page.

Q:If I earn a bachelor degree through accounting schools online, what level of jobs do I qualify for?

A:There are many accounting and finance jobs you can qualify for with a bachelor degree in accounting. These jobs will mostly fall in the category of entry level jobs. The type of job you can apply for will also depend upon the area of specialization. If you want to pursue higher paying jobs in finance and accounting, it is recommended that you earn at least a master's degree.

Q:If I enroll in an online school for accounting, can I still apply for federal aid?

A:Yes, you can apply for federal aid even if you opt for online education. Federal aid programs have been designed for students who have difficulty in covering educational costs. The most popular federal aid programs include loans, grants, sch9lrahips, and work-study programs. To apply for aid, you must fill out a FAFSA form online.

Q:What degrees are offered by an accounting school online?

A:If you wish to pursue an accounting degree online, there are many colleges and universities that offer them at an associate, bachelor and master's level. The requirements of admission would vary depending on the type of degree that you wish to take. People prefer online accounting programs as they can be completed according to your own pace.

Q:What courses or degrees do the accountant schools offer?

A:Accountant schools are concerned with education that can equip students to handle the monetary aspect of businesses. Schools typically offer associate, bachelor and master's level degree as well as short courses. You can also explore the online degrees as well but before enrolling for these the accreditation must be checked.

Q:Can you tell me the subjects that are studied in an accountant school?

A:An accountant school can have different degree programs and the subjects also vary according to the nature of the programs. Generally, it may include subjects such as accounting fundamentals, macroeconomics, financial risk management, budgeting and tax handling. For a master's program you may have to specialize in any one of the accounting subjects.

Q:Why is it important to study from accredited accounting online schools?

A:When it comes to seeking an accounting degree online there are number of institutes and universities that offer them. Choosing an accredited institute is advised as that ensures that the institute has met the minimum quality standards set by the state education department. Having studied from an accredited institute can bring better job opportunities.

Q:Do I need a lot of money to enroll in the best online school for accounting?

A:The tuition fee for courses varies slightly from college to college. But research has shown that online programs cost much less as compared to campus based colleges. If you still have trouble with covering costs, there is always the option of applying for federal student aid. Financial aid is a great way to fund education.

Q:In bookkeeping schools online, will I have to pay for books?

A:No, you will not have to pay for textbooks. This is one of the main reasons why online programs have gained so much popularity. Students who have a tough time covering college costs can opt for online programs instead. One can study online from their home without the need of books.

Q:Can you give me some tips to perform well in the accounting online school?

A:In order to perform well in the accounting online school, you will require focus and consistency. It is recommended that you revise the previous lectures and notes before moving on to the next lecture. You can also work on practice exercises to clarify your concepts and retain what you learned in the lecture. Keeping the distractions away during lectures and asking questions from the instructors will also help you learn and perform well in accounting online school.

Q:I wish to enroll in an online accounting school. Can you tell me its benefits?

A:An online accounting school will provide certain benefits that are not usually there in a traditional on campus school. Online schools offer a lot of flexibility and convenience to students as they can choose their own study schedule and can learn at their own pace. Online schools are ideal for professionals who wish to acquire further education. Besides, online education saves additional costs such as travelling, hostel accommodation, and textbooks.

Q:How can working moms get into accounting schools?

A:If you are a working mom and your busy schedule does not allow you to acquire accounting education on campus, you can look for accredited online schools. With accredited online schools, you will be able to acquire quality education with convenience. Online schools do not require you to travel; you can pace your studies and make your own study schedule.

Q:Where can an accountant work?

A:An accountant is a professional who is responsible for preparing and scrutinizing financial records. As such, the most common industries that employ accountants include accounting, tax preparation, bookkeeping, and payroll services, the government, in finance and insurance departments, and in the management of companies and enterprises. They are also often hired by manufacturing companies. (Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics)

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