What Can You Do With an Accounting Degree? Roles, Settings, and Required Skills

If you're considering a career in finance, you may have wondered, “What can you do with an accounting degree?” The answer is more varied than you might think.  

Accounting graduates find themselves in roles that span well beyond traditional tax preparation and bookkeeping. From corporate finance departments to nonprofits, government agencies to consulting firms, the opportunities are substantial. This field opens doors to positions where you'll analyze financial data, ensure regulatory compliance, advise on business strategy, and help organizations make sound fiscal decisions.  

So, what jobs can you do with an accounting degree? This starts with looking at both the entry-level positions that launch your career and the mid-level roles you can grow into as you gain experience. Whether you're drawn to auditing, financial analysis, or management accounting, the skills you develop through your degree program will serve as the foundation for a wide range of professional paths. 

Key Takeaways:  

• Accounting degrees prepare graduates for diverse roles across traditional positions like auditor and financial analyst, and non-traditional paths in consulting, forensic accounting, and business analytics. 

• Opportunities exist in multiple sectors, including corporate finance departments, public accounting firms, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and specialized industries like healthcare and technology. 

• Entry-level positions such as bookkeeper, accounting clerk, payroll specialist, and tax preparer provide practical experience and serve as stepping stones to advanced careers. 

• Success in accounting requires both technical competencies (financial reporting, tax law, data analysis software) and soft skills (communication, attention to detail, problem-solving). 

• Professional certifications like CPA, CMA, and CIA significantly enhance career prospects and earning potential throughout the progression from entry-level to management roles. 

• The field offers strong growth potential with clear pathways to senior positions such as controller, chief financial officer, and specialized executive roles that command competitive salaries. 

Exploring Career Opportunities With an Accounting Degree 

An accounting degree can prepare you for far more than preparing tax returns or balancing ledgers. The field extends into various professional environments where financial expertise intersects with specialized industry knowledge, investigative work, and strategic decision-making.  

Overview of Traditional Accounting Roles 

Traditional accounting roles are essential, offering stability and career progression in core areas like financial reporting and generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). Such positions encompass:  

• Staff accountants for bookkeeping 

• Financial analysts for data-driven decisions 

• Auditors for accuracy and compliance 

• Tax accountants for tax preparation and planning 

• Management accountants, who work internally managing budgets, tracking expenses, and forecasting trends 

Non-Traditional Career Paths for Accounting Graduates 

Accounting graduates can pursue innovative careers beyond traditional roles:  

• Forensic accountants investigate financial crimes (like fraud and embezzlement) with law enforcement and legal firms, often testifying in court.  

• Environmental and sustainability accountants compile reports on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) metrics and regulatory compliance.  

• Management consultants use their financial expertise for strategy and risk management. 

• Others may move into financial services (e.g., banking, investment) or creative fields — such as film production managers overseeing budgets or nonprofit development managers handling finances and fundraising. 

Industries That Hire Accounting Degree Holders 

Accounting professionals find opportunities across virtually every industry sector, from technology startups to established financial institutions. The versatility of accounting skills means graduates can choose work environments that match their personal interests, whether that involves fast-paced corporate settings or mission-driven organizations. Your specific industry significantly impacts your day-to-day responsibilities, work culture, and long-term career trajectory. 

Corporate and Private Sector Opportunities 

With employers ranging from startups to Fortune 500 companies and the Big Four (Deloitte, Ernst & Young, KPMG, PwC), corporate accounting roles span diverse industries like:  

• Manufacturing 

• Healthcare 

• Technology 

• Retail 

• Banking 

• Insurance 

Private-sector accountants manage internal finances, prepare statements, handle budgets, and ensure compliance. These roles can offer stability, collaboration, and clear advancement (e.g., staff accountant to CFO). 

Government and Nonprofit Positions 

Government accountants manage public funds at the federal, state, and local levels, handling auditing, financial reporting, and budget oversight according to laws.  

Nonprofit accountants help:  

• Manage grants and donations. 

• Maintain tax-exempt status.  

• Track restricted funds.  

• Prepare reports for boards and stakeholders.  

Requiring knowledge of specific regulations unique to public service, these mission-driven roles offer stability, benefits, and specialized expertise in fund accounting and compliance. 

Entry-Level Jobs for Accounting Majors 

Entry-level positions lay the groundwork upon which you can build your accounting career and develop practical skills. These roles typically require minimal experience and offer on-the-job training while you learn essential accounting processes. Many graduates begin in these positions to gain exposure to financial systems and workflows before advancing to more specialized roles. 

Bookkeeper and Accounting Clerk Roles 

These roles provide excellent exposure to fundamental accounting principles and business operations. Bookkeepers and accounting clerks handle day-to-day financial transactions and maintain accurate records for businesses of all sizes. Tasks include:  

• Recording financial data.  

• Processing invoices.  

• Reconciling bank statements.  

• Preparing basic reports using accounting software like QuickBooks or Excel.  

These positions typically require a high school diploma or associate degree, though some employers prefer candidates with bachelor's degrees or relevant coursework. Entry-level salaries tend to range from about $45,000 to $55,000 annually.  

Payroll Specialist and Tax Preparer Positions 

Payroll specialists manage employee compensation by processing timesheets, calculating wages, withholding taxes, and ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations. Tax preparers assist individuals and businesses with preparing and filing tax returns — particularly during busy tax season — while staying current on tax laws and available deductions.  

Both roles require attention to detail and knowledge of relevant regulations, with starting salaries typically falling anywhere between $45,000 to $60,000. These positions offer valuable specialized experience and could eventually lead to advancement opportunities in tax accounting, payroll management, or human resources finance. 

Guide to Launching Your Accounting Career 

In terms of what you can do with an accounting degree, starting your accounting career calls for strategic planning and a clear understanding of the pathway ahead. Success in this field hinges on making informed decisions about your education, gaining relevant experience, and building the credentials that employers value. Taking deliberate steps early in your career sets the stage for long-term growth and advancement. 

What You’ll Need to Get Started (Education, Certifications, Resources) 

An accounting bachelor's degree is the critical foundation for most careers, requiring coursework in financial/managerial accounting, taxation, and auditing (at least 120 credit hours). Most states require 150 credit hours (often meaning a master's or extra coursework) to sit for the CPA exam.  

Professional certifications that can significantly boost career prospects include the:  

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) – most valuable 

• Certified Management Accountant (CMA) – for corporate 

• Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) – for audit 

Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Career 

Building a successful accounting career follows a progression that begins with education and continues through strategic experience and professional development. This roadmap outlines a clear path from entry-level positions to advanced roles so you may make informed decisions at each stage, establish yourself in the field, and ultimately position yourself for long-term success. 

Step 1: Choose Your Area of Interest 

• Identify which accounting specialty aligns with your interests and strengths by exploring different areas during your education.  

• Consider whether you prefer working with multiple clients in public accounting or developing deep expertise within one organization in corporate accounting.  

• Evaluate your interest in specialized areas like tax accounting, audit, forensic accounting, or financial analysis.  

• Shadow professionals, pursue internships, and take elective courses in different accounting specializations to discover which path feels right for you. 

Step 2: Gain Relevant Experience 

Seek internships during college to build practical skills and make professional connections that can lead to full-time offers. Then, apply for entry-level positions such as staff accountant, accounting clerk, or tax preparer to gain hands-on experience with financial systems and processes. You might also volunteer to work on diverse projects within your role to broaden your skill set and demonstrate initiative. Many professionals spend two to five years in entry-level positions before advancing to senior roles, using this time to master technical skills and understand business operations. 

Step 3: Obtain Professional Certifications 

Plan your certification path early; most credentials require specific education and experience requirements before you can sit for exams. Work toward your CPA license if you're interested in public accounting or want maximum career flexibility, as this credential opens doors to the widest range of opportunities. Consider specialized certifications like the CMA for management accounting roles or the Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) for forensic accounting positions. Be sure to budget time and resources for exam preparation. Passing rates vary, and thorough preparation significantly improves your chances of success. 

Step 4: Network and Apply for Positions 

• Join professional organizations like the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) or your state's CPA society to access networking events, continuing education, and job boards. 

• Attend career fairs, industry conferences, and alumni events to connect with professionals who can provide mentorship and job leads.  

• Build relationships with professors, supervisors, and colleagues who can serve as references and provide guidance throughout your career.  

• Apply strategically to positions that align with your goals, tailoring your resume to highlight relevant skills and accomplishments for each role. 

Skills Employers Seek in Accounting Degree Holders 

Success in accounting requires a combination of technical expertise and interpersonal abilities that enable you to perform complex tasks while collaborating effectively with colleagues and clients. Employers look for candidates who can both execute precise financial work and communicate findings clearly to stakeholders. Developing a well-rounded skill set makes you more competitive in the job market and prepares you for advancement into leadership roles. 

Core Technical Competencies 

Essential “hard” skills in accounting include:  

• Financial reporting and GAAP compliance 

• Proficiency with accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, SAP, Oracle, Excel) for data management 

• Tax preparation expertise across federal, state, and local codes 

• Data analysis abilities for interpreting trends and providing strategic insights. 

Essential Soft Skills for Success 

These are other key skills that successful accountants possess:  

• Communication to translate complex financials for non-experts 

• Attention to detail for accuracy and error prevention 

• Critical thinking for problem-solving 

• Time management to meet strict deadlines during busy periods like tax season and month-end close 

Growth Potential and High-Paying Roles 

The accounting profession offers substantial opportunities for career advancement and increasing compensation as you gain experience and develop specialized expertise. Moving from entry-level positions to senior roles requires strategic career planning, continuous skill development, and often additional credentials.  

Pathways to Management and Executive Positions 

Career progression typically moves from staff accountant to senior accountant within three to five years, then to accounting manager or supervisor roles where you begin leading teams and overseeing department operations.  

Mid-level positions like controllers manage all accounting functions within an organization, supervising staff and ensuring accurate financial reporting and compliance.  

Director of finance roles involve strategic financial planning, working closely with executive leadership, and driving organizational growth through informed decision-making. The chief financial officer (CFO) represents the pinnacle of accounting careers: overseeing all financial activities, managing risk, raising capital, and serving as a key strategic advisor to the CEO and board of directors. 

Highest Paying Accounting Careers 

Consider the following high-paying accounting specialties and roles:   

• Reflecting their critical role in corporate strategy and financial health, CFOs earn the highest salaries in accounting, with compensation broadly ranging from about $200,000 to $500,000 depending on company size, industry, and location. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that chief executives at large earn a median annual wage of $206,420 as of 2024 — but other averages show even higher salaries.  

• Controllers and financial managers command median earnings of approximately $162,000, managing accounting departments and financial reporting functions.  

• Tax directors and audit partners may earn between $100,000 and $180,000, providing specialized expertise in tax strategy or leading audit engagements for major clients.  

• Senior financial analysts, risk managers, and treasury directors show median earnings of $90,000 to $110,000, using their analytical skills to guide investment decisions and manage financial risks. 

Start Your Accounting Journey With University of the Cumberlands 

Ready to pursue a stable and rewarding career? Now that you have a better idea of what jobs you can do with an accounting degree, consider that University of the Cumberlands' Bachelor of Science in Accounting can deliver the comprehensive education and practical skills you need to excel in this in-demand field.  

Our program prepares you for professional certifications like the CPA while offering flexible online and on-campus options that fit your schedule. With experienced faculty, career-focused curriculum, and strong industry connections, you'll graduate ready to step confidently into entry-level positions and build toward high-paying management roles. Take the first step and request more information today.