Top Reasons to Choose a Career in Accounting

Accounting jobs are in high demand for a several reasons. Accountants in the United States earn an annual average salary of $70,500, which is nearly double the national average salary for all occupations. Accounting job growth is expected to be 10% between 2016 and 2026, with 1.5 million jobs available in 2026.

Accounting has a reputation for being dull, but in reality, the field offers a variety of interesting career options. Certified public accountants, or CPAs, frequently run their own businesses and offer financial and tax advice to businesses and individuals. Auditing is a subsection of accounting that focuses on detecting errors and discrepancies in financial records that indicate mismanagement. These occupations are important to the country's overall economic health. As a result, experts predict that accounting jobs will be in high demand in the coming years.

As an Accountant, You Are Part of a Large Network of Other Professionals

Accounting professionals are supportive of their colleagues. You will have numerous opportunities to network, both in social settings and professional settings. You will always have resources to help answer that tricky accounting question or get career advice. You will be able to find mentors and be a mentor. We consistently find that those in the accounting field are open, friendly, and supportive of helping others advance in their careers.

You Have Opportunities to Work in Any Industry You Choose

While many accounting majors start their careers in public accounting and remain in this sector, there are so many other options and career paths you can consider! Every company, whether a Fortune 500 or a small nonprofit, needs accounting support. You can specialize or generalize -- be a tax expert or a CFO, work as an auditor or be the auditee, work for the government or help a company comply with government regulations. You will have vast opportunities to determine a path that is best for you. The skills you develop are in demand.

You Will Be a Lifelong Learner

As an accountant, you will need to follow regulations, which are always evolving. There is always something new to learn, and there are ways to grow professionally. The role of AI, the use of IT, and changes in the tax code are just a few examples to show the necessity for continuous professional learning. If you become a CPA, you will comply with ongoing continuing education requirements; if you are not a CPA, you will want to keep learning and attending continuing education sessions.

Your Roles Will Be Challenging

Because you will often work with other teams that have little understanding of what accountants do, you will be relied upon to offer professional guidance on numerous matters that impact a business. You may be asked things you do not know; in these instances, remember your networks and professional development opportunities. One of the best things about being an accountant is that each day brings new things. You will never have a dull moment as you tackle new challenges and face problems to solve.

You Will Be In a Profession That Is Respected and Known for Integrity and Ethics

Accountants are respected business professionals, and accounting is known to be one of the most trustworthy professions. You will become a trusted advisor to others where you work, and your opinion will matter in making business decisions.

You Will Be So Much More Than The Stereotypical "Bean Counter"

As an accountant, you will be solving real business problems. You will use your accounting education to provide accurate data for your company -- data that will be used in decision-making. You will ensure the integrity of the financial data for your company. You will work in partnership with others in your company, using your accounting knowledge and skills to help drive your company's success.

Remember...

Accounting skills are needed at every company, and every department within those companies is impacted by the work of the accounting team. As a practical matter, you will be able to make a great living in this profession.