Is Accounting a Good Career? Salary, Job Growth & Degree Options

Accounting continues to be a reliable and in-demand profession across many industries. It offers a balance of stability, growth potential, and diverse career paths for individuals with strong analytical and organizational skills. Educational requirements can vary depending on long-term goals. Career outcomes are influenced by specialization and experience. In this blog, we’ll explore career prospects, earning potential, and degree pathways in accounting.

Key Takeaways

• Accounting is generally a good career in 2025 and beyond, offering strong salaries, steady job growth, and flexible degree paths that make it accessible from multiple starting points.
• The U.S. median annual wage for accountants and auditors is approximately $81,680 (May 2024 BLS data), with experienced professionals earning well over $100,000 in senior roles like controller, tax manager, or chief financial officer.
• Job growth for accountants and auditors is projected at 5% from 2024–2034, faster than average for all occupations, with about 124,200 job openings expected annually.
• Multiple educational pathways exist—associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees—plus certifications like CPA, CMA, and ACCA that can significantly boost earning potential.
• Modern accounting is increasingly technology-driven, offers remote and hybrid work options, and provides clear advancement paths for those willing to develop their skills and credentials.

Is Accounting a Good Career?

If you’re wondering whether accounting is a good career choice for your future, the short answer is yes—and the data backs it up. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, accountants and auditors earn a median annual wage of $81,680, which is substantially higher than the national median for all occupations. Employment in this field is projected to grow 5% from 2024 to 2034, faster than average, with roughly 124,200 openings expected each year from new positions and retirements.

So what do accountants actually do day to day? At its core, accounting involves recording, analyzing, and interpreting financial data to help organizations operate efficiently. Accountants prepare financial statements, maintain accurate financial records, ensure taxes are paid properly and on time, support audits, create budgets, and help leaders make informed business decisions. Whether someone works for public accounting firms, corporations, government agencies, or nonprofits, these core responsibilities remain consistent across the business world.

Accounting is often called the “language of business” for good reason. Understanding financial information opens doors not just within the accounting profession but also into corporate finance, consulting, and entrepreneurship. The constant need for accurate financial reporting, compliance with tax law, and support for business decision making ensures that qualified accountants remain in high demand across sectors—from tech and health care to government and nonprofits.

Salary Outlook for Accounting Careers

One of the most common questions prospective students ask is simple: how much do accountants actually earn? The answer depends on your country, role, credentials, and experience—but accounting salaries are generally competitive compared to other college majors in business administration and finance.

Current U.S. Salary Figures

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median wage for accountants and auditors was $81,680 in May 2024. However, that number represents the midpoint—there’s significant variation based on where you are in your career:

Career Level	Typical Salary Range
Entry-level (0–2 years)	$52,780 – $65,000
Staff Accountant	$55,000 – $70,000
Senior Accountant	$80,000 – $90,000
Accounting Managers	$90,000 – $100,000+
Controller	$100,000 – $120,000
Director of Accounting	$125,000 – $140,000
Chief Financial Officer	$160,000+

The top 10% of accountants and auditors earn $141,420 or more annually, while entry-level positions typically start in the mid-$50,000s for new graduates joining public accounting.

International Perspectives

In the UK, average accountant salaries range from approximately £37,000 to £40,000 in 2025, with chartered accountants and those working in London often earning considerably more. Similar patterns exist in Canada, Australia, and other developed economies where qualified accountants command premium wages.

How Certifications Impact Earnings

Earning a certified public accountant license or other professional designation can significantly boost your earning potential. According to industry data:

• CPAs in the U.S. earn an average of $93,068—roughly $30,000 more than non-certified staff accountants
• Tax managers average $127,254 annually
• Forensic accounting specialists earn approximately $121,437
• The CMA (Certified Management Accountant) designation adds value for those pursuing corporate roles in strategic financial planning

Specialization matters too. Accountants who focus on taxation, forensic accounting, internal audit, or data analytics often command higher salaries than generalists. Working for Big Four firms or in high-margin industries like technology and finance also tends to accelerate salary growth over 5, 10, and 15+ years of experience.

Job Growth, Demand, and Career Stability

Despite concerns about automation and AI, accountants remain in steady demand—and the numbers support genuine job security in this field.

Employment Projections

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 5% employment growth for accountants and auditors from 2024 to 2034, which translates into approximately 124,200 job openings per year. These openings come from both newly created positions and replacement needs as experienced professionals retire or transition to other roles.

The Talent Shortage Advantage

Here’s something that works in favor of anyone entering the field: there’s currently a documented shortage of qualified accountants. Fewer students are majoring in accounting, and many experienced CPAs are approaching retirement. Industry salary guides describe this as a “severe talent crisis” that’s pushing firms to offer higher starting salaries, signing bonuses, and more flexible work arrangements.

The AICPA’s National Management of an Accounting Practice Survey found that starting salaries for new hires increased dramatically between 2023 and 2025:

• Master’s degree holders saw a 17% increase in starting salaries, reaching a median of $67,750
• Bachelor’s degree holders experienced an 11% increase, with a median starting pay of $60,834

This shortage translates directly into better negotiating power for qualified candidates entering the profession.

Stability Across Economic Cycles

One of accounting’s greatest strengths is its resilience. Accountants work across diverse industries—public accounting, corporate finance, government agencies, health care, nonprofits, and more. This means demand for accounting skills isn’t tied to any single sector’s performance. Whether the economy is booming or facing challenges, organizations still need professionals to prepare taxes, maintain financial records, comply with government regulations, and support current and potential investors with reliable financial data.

Degree Options: Education Paths Into Accounting

There are multiple ways to enter the accounting profession, and the right path depends on your current situation, career goals, and timeline.

Associate Degree (2 Years)

An associate degree in accounting provides foundational knowledge suitable for bookkeeping, payroll, accounts payable/receivable, and other support roles. Many students use this as a stepping stone, gaining experience while continuing toward a bachelor’s degree. This path offers an affordable entry point, especially at community colleges, while building practical accounting skills.

Bachelor’s Degree (3–4 Years)

A bachelor’s degree in accounting is the most common route into staff accountant and auditor positions. Most public accounting firms require at least a four-year degree in accounting or a related field like business administration with accounting coursework. Core classes typically include:

• Financial accounting and managerial accounting
• Auditing and taxation
• Business law and ethics
• Accounting information systems
• Intermediate and advanced accounting topics

Master’s Degree and the 150-Hour Requirement

Here’s an important detail for anyone considering the CPA path: most U.S. states require 150 semester hours of education to become a certified public accountant—that’s 30 hours beyond a typical 120-hour bachelor’s degree. Many students meet this requirement by earning a master’s degree in accounting or taxation (MAcc, MST, or MS in Accounting).

The investment pays off. According to AICPA data, new hires with master’s degrees command significantly higher starting salaries than those with only bachelor’s degrees—and they’re positioned more competitively for advancement.

Alternative Routes

Not everyone follows a traditional path. Options include:

• Post-baccalaureate certificates for those with degrees in other fields who want to gain accounting credentials
• Conversion master’s programs designed specifically for non-business graduates
• Online degree programs that allow working professionals to transition into accounting while maintaining their current jobs
• Entry-level bookkeeping or clerk roles that provide experience while completing formal education

The flexibility of these pathways makes accounting accessible regardless of where you’re starting.

Specializations and Career Paths in Accounting

Accounting is no longer a single, narrow career path. Today’s accountants can choose from numerous specializations and pursue advancement to executive positions based on their interests and strengths.

Major Specializations

Specialization	Focus Area
Financial Accounting	Preparing financial statements for external stakeholders and investors
Audit and Assurance	Examining financial records to verify accuracy and compliance
Taxation	Helping individuals and businesses prepare tax returns and develop tax strategies.
Management Accounting	Supporting internal business decisions through budgeting, forecasting, and analysis
Cost Accounting	Analyzing production costs and profitability
Forensic Accounting	Investigating fraud, financial crimes, and disputes
Internal Audit	Testing internal controls and risk management within organizations

Emerging Directions

Technology is creating new opportunities for many accountants. Professionals with skills in data analytics, ERP systems like SAP and Oracle, and business intelligence tools find themselves in high demand. Roles focused on financial transformation, process automation, and analytics interpretation represent some of the fastest-growing areas within the profession.

Typical Career Progression

A common career path in accounting looks something like this:

1. Intern or Junior Accountant → Building foundational skills
2. Staff Accountant → 1–3 years of experience, handling core responsibilities
3. Senior Accountant → 3–5 years, leading specific areas and mentoring juniors
4. Manager → 5–8 years, supervising teams and managing client relationships
5. Senior Manager or Controller → Overseeing departments and strategic initiatives
6. Director or CFO → Leading organizational financial strategy

Beyond Traditional Accounting

Accountants can pivot into related fields over time. Many move into corporate finance, financial planning and analysis (FP&A), consulting, or entrepreneurship. Some become fractional CFOs for startups and small businesses, providing high-level financial guidance on a part-time or contract basis. The analytical thinking and problem-solving skills developed in accounting transfer remarkably well to these adjacent career opportunities.

Work Environment, Lifestyle, and Remote Opportunities

The traditional image of accountants chained to desks in windowless offices doesn’t match today’s reality. Modern accounting work environments have evolved significantly, especially since 2020.

Typical Work Settings

Accountants work in various environments:

• Public accounting firms — ranging from Big Four global firms to small local practices
• In-house corporate teams — serving companies across various industries
• Government agencies — federal, state, and local entities requiring government accountants
• Nonprofit organizations — managing finances for mission-driven work
• Remote or freelance arrangements — serving clients independently

Honest Talk About Work-Life Balance

Let’s be real: accounting has busy seasons. Tax professionals face intense periods from January through April. Auditors and corporate accountants experience pressure during quarterly close and year-end reporting. During these times, longer hours are common and expected.

However, outside peak periods, many accountants enjoy stable, predictable schedules. The profession increasingly offers flexibility to offset busy season demands, including compensatory time off, reduced summer hours, and more accommodating policies.

Remote Work Realities

Accounting is well-suited for remote and hybrid arrangements. Most tasks involve digital records, spreadsheets, cloud-based accounting software, and collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams and Zoom rather than constant in-person interaction. This makes flexible schedules, part-time roles, and fully remote positions increasingly common—especially in:

• Bookkeeping and payroll services
• Tax preparation
• Advisory for small businesses
• Private businesses seeking outsourced accounting support

If work-life balance and location flexibility matter to you, accounting offers genuine options.

Are You a Good Fit for an Accounting Career?

Before committing to an accounting degree or career change, it’s worth reflecting on whether this path aligns with your strengths and preferences.

Traits That Suit Accounting

Successful accountants typically share certain characteristics:

• Comfort with numbers and spreadsheets — You don’t need to love math, but you should feel comfortable working with numerical data daily
• Attention to detail — Small errors in financial documents can have significant consequences
• Reliability and consistency — Organizations depend on accountants to deliver accurate work on deadline
• Curiosity about business operations — Understanding how organizations function helps accountants add value beyond basic compliance
• Willingness to learn continuously — Tax law, regulations, and technology evolve constantly

Math Requirements Are Manageable

Here’s reassuring news: you don’t need advanced calculus or complex statistics for most accounting roles. Basic algebra and strong logical reasoning matter more than higher mathematics. If you can evaluate performance through numerical analysis and think systematically, you have the quantitative foundation needed.

Soft Skills Matter Too

Beyond technical abilities, successful accountants develop skills in:

• Clear written and verbal communication for explaining financial information to non-accountants
• Teamwork and collaboration during intense, busy periods
• Ethical judgment when handling sensitive financial data
• Critical thinking to interpret rules and apply them appropriately

Simple Self-Assessment

Ask yourself: Do you enjoy organizing data? Do you find satisfaction in reconciling discrepancies and making things balance? Are you comfortable using tools like Excel, QuickBooks, or cloud accounting platforms? If these activities appeal to you rather than frustrate you, accounting could be a smart career choice.

Key Skills and Certifications to Consider

Combining core skills with the right certifications can significantly boost your career prospects and earnings potential.

Essential Technical Skills:

• Excel proficiency (pivot tables, VLOOKUP, data analysis)
• Familiarity with at least one major accounting or ERP system
• Basic data visualization and analytics tools
• Understanding of accounting software platforms

Major Certifications:

Certification	Focus	Key Requirements
CPA (Certified Public Accountant)	U.S. public accounting, audit, tax	150 credit hours, pass the CPA exam, and work experience
ACCA/ACA	UK and international accounting	Exams plus practical experience
CMA (Certified Management Accountant)	Corporate finance, strategic planning	Bachelor’s degree, pass exam, work experience
CIA (Certified Internal Auditor)	Internal audit and controls	Bachelor’s degree, exam, experience
CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor)	IT audit and security	IT experience, exam

The CPA exam typically requires candidates to pass multiple sections covering auditing, business concepts, financial accounting, and a specialized discipline area. Most certifications also require continuing professional education (CPE) annually, encouraging accountants to stay current with evolving standards, technology, and government regulations.

Evaluating Accounting as a Long-Term Career Choice

Accounting offers strong earning potential, steady job growth, and flexible career options across industries. With clear educational pathways and opportunities for advancement, it remains a practical choice for individuals seeking stability and professional mobility. The combination of technical knowledge and business insight makes accounting a lasting, adaptable career.

If you’re ready to move forward, Edison State Community College provides career-focused education designed for real-world success. We offer supportive learning environments and practical coursework to help you pursue an accounting degree in Eaton. Programs in business management, general business studies, Associate Science, and Associate Arts allow students to build a solid academic foundation across multiple fields. Connect with us and take the next step toward a rewarding future in accounting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I switch into accounting mid-career with a non-accounting degree?

Yes, many accountants successfully transition from other fields. Common paths include post-baccalaureate accounting certificates, graduate conversion programs, or entry-level roles while completing coursework. Some pursue an MBA with an accounting focus. Timelines vary, but commitment and consistent study make the transition achievable.

How long does it typically take from starting a degree to becoming a licensed CPA or chartered accountant?

The process usually takes 4–6 years. This includes earning a bachelor’s degree, completing the 150-credit-hour requirement, passing the CPA exam over 12–18 months, and fulfilling 1–2 years of supervised work experience. Combined degree programs can shorten timelines.

How will automation and AI affect accounting jobs?

Automation is reducing time spent on routine tasks but increasing demand for analytical and advisory skills. Accountants who adapt by learning data analytics, ERP systems, and strategic interpretation remain highly valuable. Job growth continues because financial judgment, compliance expertise, and decision support require human insight.

Can an accountant trained in one country work in another?

Accounting skills transfer well internationally, but licensing varies by country. Professionals often complete bridging programs or additional exams. Mutual recognition agreements help streamline transitions. Core accounting principles remain consistent globally, though professionals must learn local tax laws and regulatory standards.

Is accounting a good career for someone who wants diverse career opportunities?

Accounting offers broad career flexibility across industries. Professionals move into finance, consulting, strategy, leadership, or entrepreneurship. Skills in financial analysis, compliance, and communication remain valuable beyond traditional roles, making accounting a strong foundation for long-term career mobility and growth.