Status

• A degree in accounting conveys a certain status within the profession. It implies that you are smart and dedicated enough to get a degree in this area, which is feared by many students. You must have an interest and an aptitude for accounting to get a degree, and most likely you will be a good professional too. Having a degree in accounting is a sure sign of knowledge and competency in that area. You may actually know a lot of accounting based on experience, but a degree confers credibility and a better salary. Average salary for recent accounting graduates in the United States is from $35,581 to $51,042.
  
  

Types

• There are many degrees out there, such as Associate in Arts degrees with 2 years of college, Bachelors of Arts or Science and master's degrees. You could get all of these in accounting, but the most recognized are the bachelor's and master's degree. Getting an associate's degree will get you only so far with an accounting career--up to supervisor or manager level and no more. If you are serious about an accounting career, aim for a bachelor's degree. No accounting firm will hire auditors or staff accountants without a bachelor's degree.
  
  

Types of Work

• With a degree in accounting, you could work in public accounting-CPA firms. They do tax and audit work primarily, but also they may be involved in consulting or even litigation. Many people with accounting degrees work in nonpublic firms or in internal departments of businesses. In 2008 accounting and audit jobs totaled 1.3 million in the United States with 24 percent of those in bookkeeping, payroll,CPA firms and tax firms.
  
  

Job Considerations

• The job growth for accountants is expected to rise by 22 percent between 2008 and 2018, per government statistics. It is a favorable outlook, but prospective employers still want to know that you have the knowledge and qualifications for the job. A degree will give you the edge you need to get the job, and you may be selected over other candidates with more experience, but no degrees. That is because a degree adds to your authority and credibility. It is highly valued in the workplace. Without a bachelor's degree, you will rise in your career only so much.
  
  

Misconceptions

• Some people have the idea that accounting work is boring. It can be, as any profession can. Tax work can be interesting and challenging as well as auditing, budgeting, analysis, working in divorce cases or in criminal legal cases. Many degreed accountants work in government, such as with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service and with the Securities and Exchange Commission. A degree in accounting can lead you to a rewarding career.