How to Become a Accountant 2025

Learn everything you need to know about becoming a Accountant. Our comprehensive guide covers the education requirements, certification paths, and skills you'll need to succeed in this finance career path.We'll show you the best finance schools across the United States that offer specialized programs for aspiring Accountants. You'll find detailed information about program lengths, course content, and career outcomes specific to this role.

How to Become an Accountant in 2025

What Does an Accountant Do?

Accountants are essential to just about every business. They are responsible for recording, classifying, and summarizing financial transactions. Think of them as financial storytellers, converting piles of data into reports that show how a business is doing. Their work helps businesses make informed decisions about where to invest, how to control spending, and how to plan for the future.

But what does that actually look like on a day-to-day basis? Accountants might prepare financial statements, which are reports that show a company's assets, liabilities, and equity. They handle tax returns, ensuring businesses comply with tax laws and regulations. Accountants are also key in auditing, which involves examining financial records to verify their accuracy and integrity. They might also offer advice on financial planning and risk management.

This career is appealing for several reasons. The job outlook is strong. There's a demand for skilled accountants across various industries. Plus, it's a profession that offers opportunities for growth and advancement. Many accountants start in entry-level positions and work their way up to management roles, or even become CFOs of large organizations. The work itself can be rewarding, as accountants play a direct role in helping businesses succeed. The Bureau of Labor Statistics provides career information.

Here are some key definitions relevant to the profession:

  • Assets: Things a company owns that have value (e.g., cash, equipment, buildings).
  • Liabilities: What a company owes to others (e.g., loans, accounts payable).
  • Equity: The owner's stake in the company (assets minus liabilities).
  • Financial Statements: Formal records of the financial activities of a business.
  • Auditing: An independent examination of financial records.
  • Tax Returns: Reports filed with the government to calculate and pay taxes. The IRS website has information on filing your taxes.

Accountant Educational & Certification Requirements

A solid education is the bedrock of a successful accounting career. Most entry-level accounting positions require at least a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field like finance. A degree program will equip you with the fundamental principles of accounting, auditing, taxation, and financial analysis. Coursework covers areas such as financial reporting, cost accounting, and business law.

Earning a professional certification can significantly boost your career prospects and earning potential. The most recognized certification for accountants is the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license. To become a CPA, candidates must pass the Uniform CPA Examination, a challenging test administered by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). This exam assesses your knowledge and skills in areas such as auditing, financial accounting and reporting, regulation, and business environment and concepts. Beyond passing the exam, most states require CPA candidates to have a certain amount of work experience in accounting and meet specific educational requirements. Check with your state's Board of Accountancy for the precise requirements.

Another popular credential is the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) certification, offered by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA). The CMA focuses on accounting and financial management skills applicable to businesses. Becoming a CMA requires passing an exam, holding a bachelor's degree, and meeting work experience standards.

Continuous professional development is a must for accountants. Staying up-to-date with the latest accounting standards, regulations, and technologies is important for career growth and to provide competent service to clients or employers. You can find authoritative information about the accounting profession at AICPA's website and IMA's website.

Step-By-Step Guide to Becoming an Accountant

Becoming an accountant involves a combination of education, experience, and professional certification. Here's a breakdown of the steps to take to pursue this career path.

Step 1: Obtain a Bachelor's Degree

A bachelor's degree in accounting is the most common and generally accepted starting point. This program will provide you with a solid foundation in accounting principles, financial reporting, auditing, taxation, and business law. Coursework often includes cost accounting, managerial accounting, and ethics. While an accounting degree is preferred, a related degree like finance or business administration with a concentration in accounting can also be sufficient, provided it includes the core accounting courses.

Step 2: Gain Practical Experience

Experience is key to becoming a successful accountant. Look for internships or entry-level positions in accounting firms, corporations, or government agencies. These roles will give you hands-on experience with tasks like preparing financial statements, reconciling accounts, and assisting with audits. Many companies offer internships specifically for accounting students, providing valuable experience.

Step 3: Consider Professional Certification

While certification isn't mandatory for all accounting roles, it can significantly boost your career prospects and earning potential. The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation is the most recognized and respected credential in the field. Earning the CPA requires passing a uniform examination, meeting educational requirements (often including 150 credit hours), and fulfilling a work experience requirement. Visit the American Institute of CPAs for information. Other certifications, such as Certified Management Accountant (CMA) or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), can also be beneficial, depending on your career goals.

Step 4: Continuous Learning

The accounting profession is constantly changing due to new regulations and technological advancements. Staying current with these changes is important for continued success. This can be achieved through professional development courses, attending industry conferences, and reading publications. Many professional organizations offer continuing education opportunities. A commitment to learning will help you remain competitive and advance in your career.

Step 5: Network and Build Relationships

Building a professional network can open doors to new opportunities and provide valuable support throughout your career. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with other accountants on platforms. Networking can help you learn about job openings, stay informed about industry trends, and build relationships with mentors and colleagues. Resources like LinkedIn can aid in building a professional online presence.

How To Network As An Accountant

Accounting isn't just about numbers; it's also about people. Building a solid network can significantly boost your career prospects. A strong professional network provides access to job opportunities, mentorship, industry insights, and valuable support throughout your career. So, how do you start building that network?

One great starting point is your college or university. Get involved with accounting clubs and organizations. Attend guest speaker events, workshops, and career fairs. These events provide opportunities to meet practicing accountants, recruiters, and fellow students who will become your peers. Don’t be afraid to strike up conversations. Prepare a short "elevator pitch" about yourself, your interests, and your career goals. Remember to collect business cards and follow up with a brief email to those you connect with.

Internships are also fantastic networking hubs. Treat your internship as a extended interview and networking opportunity. Go above and beyond your assigned tasks, ask questions, and show genuine interest in the work. Build relationships with your supervisors and colleagues. Attend company social events and participate in team activities. The connections you make during an internship can often lead to full-time job offers or valuable references. Explore potential internships at reputable organizations such as the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants: https://www.aicpa.org/

Beyond formal events, cultivate your online presence on platforms like LinkedIn. Create a professional profile that highlights your skills, experience, and education. Connect with accountants in your field, join relevant groups, and participate in discussions. Share articles, comment on posts, and contribute valuable insights to establish yourself as a knowledgeable and engaged professional. Networking events can also include local chapter meetings of professional accounting organizations and industry conferences. These present excellent forums to meet and hear from leaders in the field.

Actionable Tips & Resources For Aspiring Accountants In 2025

So, you want to be an accountant? That's a solid career choice, and 2025 promises to be a great time to get started. The demand for skilled financial professionals remains strong. Here are some practical tips and resources to get you on the right path.

First, solidify your education. A bachelor's degree in accounting is practically a must-have. Look for programs that are accredited, because this signals quality. Accreditation can impact your ability to sit for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam later on. The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) is a good source of information about CPA requirements: https://www.aicpa.org/

Beyond the degree, gain practical experience. Internships are gold. They give you a feel for what accountants do day-to-day and help you build your network. Many firms offer internships during the summer, and some have year-round opportunities. Don't be afraid to reach out to smaller, local accounting firms, as they might be more open to taking on interns.

Consider getting certified. The CPA is a highly respected credential, but there are other valuable certifications, such as Certified Management Accountant (CMA) or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA). Research the certifications that align with your career goals and start planning how to meet the requirements. The Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) provides details about the CMA designation: https://www.imanet.org/

Keep your skills current. Accounting software and regulations are always evolving. Become familiar with popular programs like QuickBooks and Xero. Take continuing education courses to stay updated on the latest accounting standards and tax laws.