Accountant

Accountant — How to Become

Would you make a good Accountant?

Discover your ideal career path with our comprehensive assessment matched to 800+ professions.

Take the Accounting Career Test Take the Finance Career Test

How Do You Become an Accountant? Editorial

Pathway Steps 5
Typical Education Bachelor's degree

Step-by-Step Career Path

  1. 1

    Earn a bachelor's degree

    Complete a four-year bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field to meet the foundational education requirement for becoming an accountant.

  2. 2

    Gain related work experience

    Secure entry-level positions or internships in accounting, bookkeeping, or financial roles to develop practical skills and meet experience requirements.

  3. 3

    Develop key knowledge areas

    Focus on strengthening skills in economics, accounting, mathematics, and business administration through coursework, workshops, or self-study.

  4. 4

    Complete on-the-job training

    Undergo several years of work-related training, often provided by employers, to refine technical and industry-specific competencies.

  5. 5

    Pursue optional certifications

    Consider obtaining professional certifications, such as CPA (Certified Public Accountant), to enhance credibility and career advancement opportunities.

Entry Requirements

Becoming an accountant is a structured but accessible path, though it requires a clear sequence of preparation. The entry pathway demands a bachelor's degree, which means you’ll need to complete a four-year program in accounting or a related field before qualifying for most positions. Beyond education, related work experience is essential. This isn’t a field where you can jump straight into a role after graduation. Expect to spend several years gaining hands-on experience, often through internships, entry-level positions, or on-the-job training, before being considered fully qualified. The process is methodical and time-intensive, but the requirements are straightforward and achievable with focused planning.

Preparation Requirements

O*NET Data
Becoming an accountant requires a structured combination of education, experience, and training that typically spans 6 to 8 years before full readiness. A bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field provides the foundational knowledge in economics, mathematics, and financial regulations, which is essential for day-to-day tasks like financial reporting and compliance. However, education alone isn’t enough. Prior experience in accounting or a related role, often gained through internships or entry-level positions, bridges the gap between theory and practical application. On-the-job training further refines skills, as new accountants learn industry-specific software, tax codes, and organizational processes under supervision. This pathway ensures a gradual transition into independent work, with most professionals taking several years to master the complexities of the role before handling responsibilities without oversight.
1

Education Required

Bachelor's degree

Not Sure If This Career Is Right for You?

Take our career assessment to discover careers that match your interests, skills, and personality.

Take the Accounting Career Test

Continue Exploring

Education Requirements See the degrees, majors, and preparation this path usually needs. Salary Information Compare pay ranges, state wages, and national salary context. Skills Required Review the strengths and tools this career relies on most.

Start typing and press enter to search

Scroll to Top