Accountants
Career Snapshot
If you enjoy numbers, you might want to seek a career as an accountant. Some accountants work for private persons, assisting them in filing their taxes and providing general financial advice. Other accountants work for businesses, either as consultants or full-time workers. They are in charge of the company's financial records, including budgets, payments, expenses, and taxes.
Accountants are employed by the government. Some work for the IRS, or Internal Revenue Service, which is in charge of tax collection. IRS accountants ensure that tax returns are properly submitted. They are specially trained to detect tax evasion. Other government accountants ensure that local, state, and federal government entities maintain correct records.
Accounting can be time-consuming. New computer software is rapidly evolving, making recordkeeping easier. Accountants can anticipate to spend the most of their time sitting at a desk. Most candidates will need a degree in accounting or a related profession.
Passing the exam to become a CPA, or certified public accountant, will lead to improved job options; however, most states require CPA candidates to complete an additional 30 semester hours beyond the standard bachelor's degree. Without the counsel and assistance of agents and business managers, diligence, integrity, and a strong mind for statistics are what 'matter' in this job.
Characteristics
Activities
Areas of Study
Degrees
Key Abilities
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Deductive Reasoning
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Mathematical Reasoning
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Near Vision
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Number Facility
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Oral Comprehension
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Oral Expression
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Written Comprehension
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Written Expression
Colleges
Top Skills