Accounting is a very far-reaching industry in our society that revolves around money. We often associate accounting careers with the narrow concepts of bookkeeping or taxes, though there are many other careers in accounting. Businesses need a strong financial foundation – especially in our current economy – a foundation which is supported by the financial expertise of accountants. These professionals play an integral role in helping businesses and individuals make more intelligent financial decisions.

There is always a need for competent individuals who understand the complexities of accountancy. The industry is not confined simply to people who are “good with numbers,” but rather is made of business-savvy professionals who are able to analyze and interpret financial information to help businesses and individuals make smart financial decisions. Accountants need to be comfortable working with numbers, but they should also be analytical, detail-oriented, computer-savvy and personable.

All accountants come from the same academic background of business and economics. While an online accounting degree provides a basic educational background in the field, it also prepares you to take the CPA exam and to work as a financial professional for a company or even as a freelancer. Students working on an accounting degree at an online school are trained in the fundamentals of accountancy and business through a wide range of topics such as:

• Auditing
• Income taxation
• General ledger and accounting systems
• Bookkeeping
• Business law
• Cost management

In smaller businesses, the accounting profession is defined quite broadly and does not require a specific focus or specialization. However, with larger corporations accounting careers are often more focused (e.g., internal auditing, management counseling and forensic accounting). In both the public and private sectors, the majority of industry hires are recent traditional or online college graduates with an accounting degree.

As with most careers, education and certification will influence the pay of the accounting career you choose to pursue. The vast majority of positions require at least a bachelor’s degree. You will have the choice between a 120- and 150-credit accounting degree, but most state regulations will require that you complete at least 150 credits in accounting. Upon completing a bachelor's degree, all public accountants are required by law to gain licensure as a certified public accountant (CPA) by passing the CPA exam. This is a high-demand certification and, while it is not required in order to find employment, you will be hard-pressed to secure employment without it.

Attaining an accounting degree from an online school will open up a world of opportunities. Accounting careers are paid well because of the complexity of the work and the specialized skills it requires. If you are driven and possess strong business, finance and interpersonal skills, then you can succeed in this line of work.