What Can You Do With An Accounting Degree?

Discover top accounting careers with an accounting degree. Explore accountant jobs, financial analyst roles, required skills and current salary trends.

Last Update

25 Feb 2025

Discover the diverse opportunities an accounting degree offers. From traditional accounting jobs to specialized accounting careers, explore how this versatile path prepares you for success in finance, auditing, tax, and beyond.

Introduction

Whether you want to become a tax specialist, CPA, auditor, or financial analyst, an accounting degree gives you the skills needed for many stable and in-demand jobs. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of accountants and auditors is projected to grow 5% from 2024 to 2034, translating into about 1,24,200 job openings.

Accountants play an important role in businesses by managing financial records, creating budgets, and making sure companies follow financial laws.
With the right training, you can work as an auditor, financial advisor, budget analyst, or even move into leadership positions.

This degree prepares you for careers in corporate companies, government agencies, non-profits, and even startups. Learn how this degree may help you find good employment and improve the economy.

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Careers With An Accounting Degree

Accounting degrees open the door to various accounting jobs, which are necessary to keep finances accurate and help businesses achieve success. Here are some popular types of accounting jobs that college graduates can get:

Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

CPAs are among the most respected accounting professionals.
They conduct audits, handle tax planning, and oversee financial reporting for individuals or organizations. CPAs also advise clients on financial strategy and long-term tax optimization.

Average Median Salary: $99,000 (2024)

Auditor

Auditors review financial records to ensure accuracy and regulatory compliance. They help identify risks, internal control issues, or potential fraud in financial statements.

Average Median Salary: $96,543 (2024)

Tax Consultant

Tax consultants prepare and file tax returns for individuals and businesses.
They also offer guidance on tax-saving strategies, compliance, and risk reduction.

Average Salary: $108,758 (2025)

Forensic Accountant

Forensic accountants investigate financial fraud, discrepancies, and criminal financial activities.
They often work with legal teams and use investigative accounting techniques to uncover financial wrongdoing.

Average Salary: $117,806 (2025)

Management Accountant

Management accountants focus on budgeting, cost control, and financial planning within an organization.
They provide insights to senior management to support business decisions and internal financial efficiency.

Average Salary: $73,646 (2025)

Financial Analyst

Financial analysts interpret financial data, market trends, and business performance.
They prepare investment reports and help companies make informed financial decisions.

Average Salary: $106,000 (2024)

Government Accountant

Government accountants manage public funds and oversee budgets for government entities.
They ensure financial transparency and compliance with government regulations.

Average Salary: $65,812 (2025)

Cost Accountant

Cost accountants analyze production and operational costs to help organizations increase profitability.
They develop cost systems, track expenditures, and monitor cost efficiency.

Average Salary: $80,572 (2025)

Internal Auditor

Internal auditors review internal processes and controls to identify inefficiencies and risks.
They provide recommendations to improve policies, operations, and financial integrity.

Average Salary: $67,940 (2025)

Payroll Specialist

Payroll specialists manage employee payroll, tax deductions, and statutory filings.
They ensure employees are paid accurately and that payroll processes follow compliance requirements.

Average Salary: $57,017 (2025)

*Disclaimer: Salaries vary significantly based on state, employer, experience, specialization, and bonus/benefits

Each role within accounting jobs and accounting careers offers unique challenges and opportunities for growth, making this field highly dynamic and rewarding.

The flexibility of an accounting degree allows professionals to transition between roles based on interests and career goals. For example:

From Tax Consultant to CPA: Earning a CPA license adds broader expertise in auditing and financial consulting.
From Auditor to Forensic Accountant: Gaining certifications like CFE and building investigative skills enable a shift into financial crime investigations.
From Management Accountant to CFO: Pursuing leadership roles by obtaining advanced qualifications, such as a CMA (Certified Management Accountant) or MBA.
From Financial Analyst to Investment Banker: Developing skills in mergers, acquisitions, and financial modeling can help in moving into high-stakes finance roles.

By obtaining additional certifications, seeking mentorship, and pursuing relevant training, professionals can explore new career opportunities and advance within the dynamic field of accounting.

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Accounting Job Descriptions

Accounting professionals play a key role in preserving financial health and compliance for people, corporations, and governments. Below is an in-depth look at common responsibiilities, required skills, and insights into average compensation for various accounting professions.

Key Responsibilities in Accounting Jobs

Financial Record Management

Maintaining and sorting financial records such as income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow reports.
Making sure records follow legal guidelines, are accurate, and up to date.

Budgeting and Forecasting

Creating and monitoring budgets to help organizations allocate resources efficiently.
Analyzing financial patterns to develop future financial estimates.

Tax Preparation and Compliance

Preparing tax returns for individuals and organizations.
Ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local tax laws.

Auditing

Reviewing financial documents to identify discrepancies, fraud, or inefficiencies.
Conducting internal or external audits for regulatory compliance.

Financial Analysis and Decision Support

Analyzing financial data to guide investment decisions and business strategies.
Identifying cost-saving opportunities and areas for revenue growth.

Advisory and Consulting

Providing strategic advice on mergers, acquisitions, and financial restructuring.
Recommending improvements to accounting systems and processes.

Skills Required for Success in Accounting Careers

Technical Skills

Proficiency in accounting software such as QuickBooks, SAP, or Oracle.
Understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).

Analytical Thinking

Ability to interpret complex financial data to make informed recommendations.
Strong problem-solving skills to address financial challenges.

Attention to Detail

Ensuring accuracy in financial records and compliance with regulations.
Identifying even minor discrepancies to prevent larger issues.

Communication Skills

Explaining financial concepts to non-accountants in clear, simple terms.
Collaborating with team members and presenting reports to stakeholders.

Adaptability

Keeping up with changing tax laws and financial regulations.
Embracing new technologies and methods in accounting practices.

FAQ’s

▶ What jobs can I get with an accounting degree?

An accounting degree opens doors to diverse accounting careers and accounting jobs, including:
1. Accountant: Manage financial records and ensure accuracy.
2. Auditor: Review financial statements for compliance.
3. Tax Consultant: Provide tax planning and preparation.
4. Financial Analyst: Analyze financial data to guide business decisions.
5. Forensic Accountant: Investigate financial fraud and disputes.

▶ What are the highest-paying accounting jobs?

Some of the highest-paying accounting (and finance) jobs include roles at the top corporate or firm hierarchy. For example, Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Audit Partner / Senior Audit-Firm Partner, Corporate Controller / Chief Accounting Officer, Tax Director / Senior Tax Manager, and Forensic Accountant.

▶ Can I transition to different accounting positions with my degree?

Yes, a degree in accounting gives one the freedom to move between accounting positions. Having basic knowledge of tax preparation, auditing, and financial management, you may investigate jobs such as an auditor, a tax consultant, or a financial analyst. Using certificates like CPA or CMA helps expand your expertise, therefore opening more career possibilities.

▶ Are there opportunities for advancement in accounting careers?

Yes, there are strong opportunities for advancement in accounting careers. Beginning careers as a staff accountant may progress to top responsibilities such as controller, CFO, or financial management. Getting qualifications like CPA or CMA, acquiring specialized knowledge, and honing leadership abilities would help one’s career progress faster and provide opportunities for management positions in the accounting profession and greater pay.

▶ What is the average salary for an accountant?

Salaries for accountants depend on your experience, location, and the industry you work in. Most entry-level accountants earn between $52,000 and $88,000 per year.

With more experience or certifications like CPA or CMA, you can earn over $100,000 in advanced roles.