Business & numbers

Accountant

Accountants prepare and examine financial records, help organizations understand financial information, and support reporting or tax work. Responsibilities depend on role and employer.

What the work can involve

On a typical day

  • Review financial records and transactions
  • Prepare reports, budgets, or tax documents
  • Explain findings and help maintain accurate records

Possible settings

  • — Businesses and nonprofits
  • — Accounting firms
  • — Government agencies

Skills to explore

Numeracy and careful review · Ethical judgment · Clear written communication

Preparation

There may be more than one route

Many accountant roles ask for a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field. Some credentials and licenses have additional education, exam, or experience requirements.

Four-year collegeCommunity collegeCertificationsWorkforce and employer training

Things to consider

  • Busy periods may bring longer hours.
  • Credential and licensure requirements depend on the role and state.

Explore related education paths

These are options to investigate, not required matches or recommendations.

Four-year college

A bachelor's degree combines in-depth study in a subject with general education. It can be required for some roles and useful for others, but it is one option among many.

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Community college

Community colleges may offer career certificates, associate degrees, transfer preparation, and flexible schedules. Programs differ by campus.

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Certificates and certifications

A certificate is usually awarded after completing education or training. A certification typically verifies skills against an industry or professional standard. Definitions and value vary.

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Find official training directories

These national search tools can help you find programs by location. They are directories, not school recommendations.

Nationwide directory

Search accredited accounting programs

AACSB International

Search AACSB-accredited schools and filter for accounting programs, degree level, delivery format, and location.

How to use it: Select the accounting program filter, then narrow by degree level and location. Contact schools to confirm specific courses and admissions.

Confirm before applying or enrolling: This directory includes AACSB-accredited schools only, not every accounting program. Accreditation is not required for every accounting job or state credential.

Source checked Nov 2, 2026

Open official directory

Nationwide directory

Find your state Board of Accountancy

National Association of State Boards of Accountancy

Find contact information and official board links for U.S. state and territorial accountancy regulators.

How to use it: Select the jurisdiction where you may seek a CPA license and confirm its current education, exam, experience, and application requirements with the board.

Confirm before applying or enrolling: This is a regulator directory, not an accounting-school search. CPA rules vary by jurisdiction and may change; rely on the relevant board for current requirements.

Source checked Nov 2, 2026

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