Accountant Career Video for Accounting Students

Introduction

Accountants are business professionals hired to prepare, analyze or verify financial documents for an organization or individual. Students who choose an accounting major will learn how to generate accounting reports that show expenditures, revenue, debt and how to perform audits on business records. They will also learn how to design, operate and maintain accounting information systems.

Typical Coursework

A bachelor's level program in Accounting will include a variety of business courses in addition to the required accounting curriculum. Some typical coursework might include:

• Accounting Information Systems
• Accounting and E-Commerce
• Cost Accounting
• Corporate Accounting
• Nonprofit Accounting
• Auditing and Controllership
• Federal Income Taxation
• Business Statistics

Job Prospects

Recent graduates with a Bachelor's of Accounting degree may find entry-level jobs with large consulting firms or in corporations, especially if they have gained experience through internship programs. However, many employers prefer graduates with a master's degree and those who have obtained certification or licensure in their specialties.

Higher Learning/Graduate Studies Opportunities

Many colleges and universities offer a Master of Science in Accounting program or a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting. Upon the completion of these programs, students will likely have met the educational requirements needed to take the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) examination. There also are a few doctoral level programs in Accounting that prepare students for careers in accounting education.

Conclusion

Accountants provide financial information that is a vital element of managing businesses. Students who earn a degree in Accounting will find employment opportunities in a wide variety of businesses and organizations.

Sources

http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos001.htm