Growing in Your Accounting Career Path

How to Grow Your Accounting Career: From Entry-Level to Executive  

Accounting is a vast field with a distinct hierarchical structure. With the right education and experience, you can expect job security and ample advancement opportunities throughout your accounting career. Here are some of the roles available in the industry—from entry-level jobs to executive positions in the big corner office—and how to make the most out of each.

Entry-Level Accounting Careers 

You don't have to wait until graduation to launch your accounting career. You can start working while earning your accounting degree. Accounting career paths vary, but most accounting professionals begin their journeys working in bookkeeping or other entry-level roles. In an introductory position, you can develop your skill set, enhance your résumé, and determine your professional goals and interests. Some entry-level accounting jobs include:

 Bookkeeper or Accounting Clerk 

Bookkeepers and accounting clerks manage financial records. By ensuring that transactions and accounts are up to date and accurate, these professionals allow businesses to track goal progress and make sound financial decisions. An essential task of a bookkeeping or accounting clerk role is maintaining compliance with various laws and regulations. This may involve preparing and filing taxes, managing inventory records, and preparing financial statements in accordance with the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). 

Most bookkeeping and accounting clerk jobs require at least a high school diploma. Some employers may prefer candidates with professional certifications or an associate degree. Because the jobs involve high-stakes financial recordkeeping, professionals in this field need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and data literacy. 

Junior Accountant 

Accounting firms hire junior accountants to assist senior professionals with a wide range of responsibilities, including reconciling bank statements, preparing tax forms, maintaining accounts payable and receivable, and identifying reporting mistakes. To succeed in this role, junior accountants must be team players who can work collaboratively. They should also be familiar with accounting and tax software such as QuickBooks, Xero, NetSuite, and Lacerte. Most junior accountants have a bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business, or a related field. The job requires skills in problem-solving, mathematics, financial reporting, communication, and data analysis. 

Mid-Level Accounting Careers 

To secure a mid-level accounting job, you'll need a degree in accounting and a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license. According to the National Association of State Boards in Accountancy, the CPA license is "the symbol to the public that an accountant has mastered the vital elements of the accounting profession." Becoming a licensed CPA can also increase your salary: Glassdoor reports that while accountants earn an average annual salary of $74,244, CPAs take home more than $131,000.

With a bachelor's degree in accounting, a CPA license, and experience in an entry-level position, you could acquire one of the following mid-level jobs:

Staff Accountant 

Staff accountants maintain financial records, reconcile accounts, prepare reports, and manage payroll. Because they’re more experienced, staff accountants typically have greater authority and autonomy than junior accountants. They may be in-house employees who provide services to a single organization or work for a public accounting firm serving multiple clients. 

The qualifications for a staff accountant job typically include a bachelor’s degree, several years of experience, technological proficiency, and a solid understanding of finance principles. Staff accountants have ample opportunities to grow their skills in account management, reporting, regulatory compliance, collaboration, and time management. 

Accounting Manager or Supervisor 

As the title suggests, accounting managers and supervisors oversee the day-to-day operations of accounting departments. They provide strategic direction and guidance to accounting teams while coordinating large-scale projects and aligning financial strategies with broader organizational goals. In addition to financial reporting, auditing, and cash flow management, accounting supervisors also make data-driven recommendations regarding financial best practices. Most accounting manager roles require at least a bachelor’s degree in accounting and two to five years of experience. Some accounting firms prefer candidates who hold various professional certifications.  

Upper-Level Accounting Careers 

High-level accounting roles typically require a Master of Accounting (MAcc) or a Master of Business Administration (MBA). Many employers may also require high-level accounting professionals to be certified public accountants (CPAs). Because the positions involve direct management and leadership, candidates also need extensive experience and wide-ranging expertise. After you've moved through the mid-level ranks, you'll be vying for one of these upper-level jobs:

Tax Director 

As experts in tax strategy and regulations, tax directors play a crucial role in helping a company remain compliant and reach their financial goals. These professionals perform audits, prepare returns and other tax documents, draft reports, and resolve tax-related issues. They also advise business leaders on financial strategies and methods for reducing tax liability. 

Because they handle intricate financial matters with vast implications, tax directors need at least a bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance and a deep understanding of tax laws and regulations. They should also be well-versed in writing financial reports, collaborating with a team, and finding innovative solutions to complex issues. 

Controller 

Controllers hold a key leadership position in a company. By overseeing daily accounting operations, they help organizations make savvy financial decisions that advance their goals while adhering to all applicable laws and regulations. A controller’s daily responsibilities include analyzing financial data, monitoring cash flow, providing financial recommendations to executives, directing audits, and supervising accounting teams. They also assist with budgeting, economic forecasting, and tax compliance. This position requires a bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance and several years of experience. Some employers may also require controllers to be CPAs or to have a master’s degree.

Chief Financial Officer (CFO) 

While controllers and tax directors oversee specific organizational domains, CFOs focus on big-picture financial strategy, helping companies make and implement long-term financial plans and investments. These senior executives hold the highest finance position within a company and report directly to the chief executive officer (CEO). CFOs evaluate the company’s fiscal strategies, seek avenues for improvement, and act as the primary financial spokesperson for the organization. Because they hold substantial decision-making authority, CFOs typically have many years of experience in financial leadership positions as well as advanced degrees and certifications. They should be experts at strategic planning, risk management, regulatory compliance, business intelligence, and critical thinking. 

Specializations in Accounting 

The career path of an accountant can take many different directions, with some professionals pursuing roles in corporate finance and others working for government agencies, nonprofits, or consulting firms. There are also many specializations within the field that focus on specific finance-related issues. As you evaluate your career options, consider your interests, professional goals, and personal preferences. With so many accounting specializations available, there is a niche for everyone.

Tax Accounting 

Whether it involves a single individual’s tax return or a large corporate audit, taxes can be complicated. Tax accountants are authorities on tax laws and strategies. They provide invaluable insights into credits and liabilities, IRS audits, estate planning, retirement savings, and other crucial issues. Through meticulous review and innovative thinking, tax accountants help individuals and businesses make informed decisions that support their long-term financial goals. Government accountants specializing in tax-related issues develop tax policies, optimize collection strategies, and advise government officials regarding asset management. A tax accountant job typically requires at least a bachelor’s degree and many years of experience. 

Forensic Accounting 

Forensic accountants are the detectives of the accounting world. Their job requires them to analyze financial information and find evidence for legal cases. For example, if an individual is accused of embezzlement, a forensic accountant may comb through bank statements, invoices, and contracts to find proof that supports or disproves the claim. Forensic accountants may be expert witnesses in divorce cases, business disputes, and other civil legal matters. This job requires exceptional attention to detail, persistence, and a continuous learning mindset. Most forensic accountants have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in accounting and a CPA license. 

Auditing 

While accountants primarily focus on document preparation and bookkeeping, auditors ensure that financial data is accurate and complete. They inspect documents for discrepancies, identify mistakes, and verify that financial statements meet all GAAP standards and legal requirements. Government accountants who specialize in auditing handle several different tasks, including evaluating government agencies for fiscal integrity, assisting with investigations, and preventing fraud. Internal auditors are employed by businesses and organizations to assess financial systems, ensure compliance, and provide recommendations for improvements. Because their job involves in-depth examination, auditors must be highly skilled in data analysis, analytic reasoning, and problem-solving. Auditor positions require at least a bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field. Some roles require a master’s degree and a relevant certification such as a CPA license or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) accreditation. 

Skills for Success in Accounting 

Being an accounting professional requires more than just a knack for numbers. To succeed in this multifaceted field, you need a well-rounded skill set that includes technical expertise, industry knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and interpersonal skills. While you can develop many of these skills during your formal education, on-the-job experience will provide crucial opportunities to apply these abilities to real-world scenarios. 

Technical Skills 

In an accounting job, even a small mistake or oversight can be disastrous. Accounting professionals must be proficient in the following areas to ensure the accuracy of their work:

• Report writing
• Data analysis
• Financial modeling
• Auditing 
• Financial forecasting
• Budgeting 
• Risk management

As technology plays an ever-increasing role in the profession, accountants should be proficient in data management platforms, enterprise resource planning systems, financial monitoring tools, accounting software, and tax preparation programs. They should also be familiar with general business principles such as organizational behavior, cost-benefit analysis, cash flow management, and strategic planning. 

Soft Skills 

Accountants must be able to navigate complicated laws and systems, engage with stakeholders, work cooperatively with a team, and find creative solutions to diverse challenges. Beyond technical expertise, they should master the following:

• Analytical thinking
• Deductive reasoning
• Interpersonal communication
• Collaboration
• Negotiation
• Project management
• Ethical judgment
• Self-directed learning

Education and Certifications for Career Growth 

The educational qualifications for accounting jobs vary. Some entry-level positions only require a high school diploma and basic mathematics, data entry, and finance skills. However, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in accounting to advance beyond these starter positions. With a bachelor’s, you’ll be prepared for roles with greater responsibilities and higher pay. Earning a degree also provides valuable networking opportunities and access to career development resources.

To qualify for senior-level or specialized roles, you’ll likely need a master’s degree in accounting, business administration, or a related field. Acquiring a master’s degree strengthens and expands your skill set, enhancing your employability and increasing your earning potential. Professional certifications also add value to your résumé and help you stand out from the competition. 

Degrees in Accounting 

A bachelor’s degree in accounting provides essential industry knowledge and sets the stage for a prosperous career. In this degree, you’ll learn about financial management, economics, business ethics, financial reporting, accounting theory, and regulatory compliance. You’ll also cultivate skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, teamwork, and time management. 

A master’s degree can equip you with the advanced competencies needed for top-tier positions. By earning a master’s degree in accounting, you can learn sophisticated accounting techniques and dive into specialized topics such as auditing, forensic accounting, corporate financial analysis, information systems, and taxes. A master’s degree in business administration can also be a valuable asset. This degree focuses on business fundamentals like organizational behavior, business communication, financial management, and data-driven decision-making. 

Professional Certifications 

In the accounting profession, certifications are held in especially high regard. Strict rules and regulations surround financial reporting, taxes, and compliance matters. By earning certifications, you can demonstrate your mastery of accounting practices and commit to professional excellence. The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license is the most well-known accounting credential. Every U.S. state requires 150 college credits to take the CPA exam. Earning a CPA designation can increase your credibility, broaden your career opportunities, and help you expand your professional network. Depending on your professional goals, you may want to pursue additional certifications such as: 

• Certified Management Accountant (CMA) 
• Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)
• Certified Financial Analyst (CFA)
• Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM)
• Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) 
• Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
• Certified Financial Planner (CFP)

How to Advance in an Accounting Career?

If you’re wondering how to grow as an accountant, a solid education is an excellent starting point. You can further enhance your advancement opportunities by building your professional network, staying current on industry trends, continuously refining your skill set, and gaining experience in diverse roles. By taking an intentional, proactive approach to your professional development, you’ll stand out from the competition and be well-positioned to climb the career ladder. 

Continuous Learning 

The financial sector is constantly evolving. New technologies like AI-assisted accounting software, machine learning, and advanced data analytics tools are reshaping how accountants perform their jobs. Government regulations and industry standards also fluctuate. For example, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 significantly changed rules about deductions, expenses, and other business tax matters. Accountants should strive to continuously update their skills and stay current on regulatory changes to remain competitive in the field. 

Networking 

Most people have heard “It’s not what you know, but who you know.” This adage highlights the importance of building a professional network. Whether it’s making new connections on LinkedIn, attending conferences and seminars, joining a professional organization, or staying in touch with your university professors, fostering relationships with other professionals can benefit your career tremendously. Networking can open doors to job opportunities and promotions and help you stay up to date on industry trends.

Gaining Diverse Experience 

Although accountants often specialize in a particular area, gaining experience in various accounting domains is advantageous—especially early in your career. By diversifying your work experience, you can better understand your career options, make informed decisions about the direction you want to take, and strengthen the skills needed to advance. Having a breadth of experience on your résumé also makes you more employable and can increase your chances of promotion. 

The Future of Accounting Careers 

The future of accounting is bright. Emerging technologies such as cloud-based solutions, AI, and finance software are used to streamline many accounting processes and make complex tasks more manageable. There is a growing demand for accountants who can leverage these technologies efficiently. The accounting field is also shifting in response to economic fluctuations and world events such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Individuals and businesses continuously seek ways to manage their finances more efficiently, make wise investment decisions, cut expenses, and reduce tax burdens. Accounting professionals play a crucial role in achieving these goals. 

Job Outlook 

Statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a favorable job outlook for accounting professionals. From 2023 to 2033, the employment of accountants and auditors is expected to grow by 6%. Projections indicate that there will be 130,800 job openings in the field each year during this period. 

Preparing for Your Accounting Career at WGU 

WGU’s Bachelor of Science in Accounting provides the educational foundation you need to earn your CPA and enjoy a thriving career. In this program, you’ll acquire practical skills in finance, economics, project management, taxation, and auditing that are immediately applicable in the accounting field. WGU’s Master of Accounting degree explores topics such as management communication, accounting research, data analytics, fraud and forensic accounting, business ethics. It includes four specialization options: financial reporting, taxation, management accounting, and auditing.  

Why Choose WGU for Your Accounting Education? 

If you’re ready to make your professional goals a reality, WGU can help. At WGU, our degree programs are specifically designed to fit into the lives of busy adults. You can take courses online and enjoy the freedom of studying when and where it's convenient. Tuition is charged at a flat rate per term rather than per credit hour, and you can take as many courses as you can complete each term. This means that, with some extra effort, you can graduate faster and save even more on our already-affordable tuition. Earning an accounting degree at WGU also allows you to earn credits toward CPA eligibility. Apply today!