Accountant and Auditor Career Guide

Career Guide
Accountant and auditor

Accountants prepare and analyze financial records; auditors review them for accuracy and compliance. Together, they help ensure businesses stay on track.

Reviewed by Kathryn Uhles, MSP, MIS, Dean, College of Business and Information Technology

If you enjoy planning, organizing, managing deadlines and seeing a project through from start to finish, you may excel in a career as a project manager.

Accountants prepare and analyze financial records; auditors review them for accuracy and compliance. Together, they help ensure businesses stay on track.

Career overview

Accountants

�� is a business professional engaged by individuals, companies and government agencies to act as a financial detective, coach and advisor. This role involves meticulous review of clients’ financial records, tax preparation, budgeting, financial reporting and ensuring compliance with regulations. Accountants work to ensure the accuracy of financial records, assess financial risks and solve problems as they arise. Beyond number crunching, they leverage technology and their expertise to optimize financial operations and provide strategic advice. Upholding strict ethical standards, accountants are the guardians of financial health for both corporate and private clients.

Auditors

Auditors, on the other hand, play a critical role in the financial ecosystem by evaluating and verifying an organization’s financial statements to ensure accuracy and compliance with applicable laws and standards. Their primary responsibilities include examining financial records, conducting tests of transactions and assessing internal controls to identify any discrepancies or areas of risk. They prepare detailed reports outlining their findings and may also provide recommendations for improving financial practices and operational efficiencies. Through their work, auditors help to enhance the integrity of financial reporting, instilling confidence in stakeholders and promoting transparency in the business environment. Auditors can work in various specializations or specific industries, playing a unique role in evaluating an organization’s financial and operational integrity.

Types of accountants and auditors

There are of accounting and auditing professionals, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):

Government accountants

RESPONSIBILITIES

Analyze financial documents for government agencies
Verify that revenues are managed appropriately and lawfully
May audit private entities under government regulation or taxation, financial reporting and management accounting, which allows agencies to understand the financial implications of their decisions

Management accountants

RESPONSIBILITIES

Also known as cost, corporate, industrial, managerial, or private accountants
Use accounting and financial data to help companies make strategic decisions
Gather and analyze information for internal use, such as budgets and performance reviews, to assist managers and potentially help plan business costs
May collaborate with financial managers to guide financial investment decisions

Public accountants

RESPONSIBILITIES

Manage accounting, auditing, tax and consulting tasks for diverse clients, including corporations, governments, individuals and nonprofits
Specialize in areas like tax advisory, forensic accounting and personal financial guidance
May sign important documents, such as annual and quarterly reports submitted to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for publicly traded companies

Internal auditors

RESPONSIBILITIES

Work within an organization to examine its internal processes, policies, and financial practices
Assess risk management, internal controls, and governance
Conduct regular audits, providing insights and recommendations to help improve efficiency and compliance

External auditors

RESPONSIBILITIES

Typically employed by independent accounting firms
Review financial statements and practices to ensure compliance with standards and regulations
Perform impartial evaluations of financial reports and may deliver audit opinions, providing reassurance regarding the accuracy and reliability of the organization's financial performance
Uphold independence to preserve public trust in financial reporting


Types	Responsibilities
Government accountants Government accountants	Government accountants Analyze financial documents for government agencies Verify that revenues are managed appropriately and lawfully May audit private entities under government regulation or taxation, financial reporting and management accounting, which allows agencies to understand the financial implications of their decisions.
Management accountants Management accountants	Management accountants Also known as cost, corporate, industrial, managerial, or private accountants Use accounting and financial data to help companies make strategic decisions Gather and analyze information for internal use, such as budgets and performance reviews, to assist managers and potentially help plan business costs May collaborate with financial managers to guide financial investment decisions
Public accountants Public accountants	Public accountants Manage accounting, auditing, tax and consulting tasks for diverse clients, including corporations, governments, individuals and nonprofits Specialize in areas like tax advisory, forensic accounting and personal financial guidance May also sign important documents, such as annual and quarterly reports submitted to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for publicly traded companies
Internal auditors Internal auditors	Internal auditors Work within an organization to examine its internal processes, policies and financial practices Assess risk management, internal controls and governance Conduct regular audits, providing insights and recommendations to help improve efficiency and compliance
External auditors External auditors	External auditors Typically employed by independent accounting firms Review financial statements and practices to ensure compliance with standards and regulations Perform impartial evaluations of financial reports and may deliver audit opinions, providing reassurance regarding the accuracy and reliability of the organization's financial performance Uphold independence to preserve public trust in financial reporting

What to expect

Salary range

$64 - 106K

$64K

$106K

In 2024, accountants and auditors within the 25th and 75th percentiles earned between $64,660 and $106,450^[1], according to BLS nationwide statistics.^[2]

Projected growth (2024-2034)

72,800 jobs

Employment in this field is projected to between 2024 and 2034, BLS reports. It is expected that 1,652,600 accountants and auditors will be present in the workforce by 2034.^[2]

Education required

Bachelor's degree

Related job titles

Bookkeeping, accounting and auditing clerk
Budget analyst
Cost estimator
Financial analyst
Financial advisor

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[1] For source data, refer to the official . This information can be found under Accountants and Auditors (13-2011) in the “Annual 25th percentile wage” and “Annual 75th percentile wage” columns.

[2] The salary ranges are not specific to students or graduates of 91��Ƭ��. The salary ranges, job opportunities and outcomes presented represent the larger job category, which includes the particular job title. Actual outcomes vary based on multiple factors, including prior work experience, geographic location and other factors specific to the individual. 91��Ƭ�� does not guarantee employment, salary level or career advancement. BLS data is geographically based. Information for a specific state/city can be researched on the BLS website. The BLS Projected Growth for 2024-2034 is published by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. This data reflects the BLS’ projections of national (not local) conditions. These data points are not specific to 91��Ƭ�� students or graduates.

About our source

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is an agency of the United States Department of Labor that serves as part of the U.S. Federal Statistical System. Find out more:

What’s the difference: Accountants vs. auditors

While accountants and auditors both operate in finance, their roles are quite different. Accountants prepare, analyze and report financial records, focusing on accuracy and compliance with regulations, while auditors evaluate these records to ensure their integrity and adherence to standards. Auditors assess financial practices and internal controls through independent reviews, highlighting the distinct yet collaborative functions of both professions within the financial landscape.

Opportunities and outlook

In the accountant and auditor careers, you can explore diverse work environments, with employment opportunities spanning across various industries in both for-profit and nonprofit organizations. in these professions include internal auditor, audit manager, certified public accountant (CPA), cost accountant and tax accountant.

Over 1.5 million accountants and auditors were in 2024, BLS reports. Companies specializing in accounting, tax preparation, bookkeeping and payroll services were . The for accountants and auditors is likely to remain high due to increasing globalization, a thriving economy and the intricate landscape of tax and regulatory policies, according to BLS.

Challenges

Pursuing an auditing or accounting career presents several challenges that professionals must navigate, including:

Constantly evolving regulations and standards requiring ongoing education and adaptability to stay compliant and relevant
High-stress periods, especially during peak seasons like tax time or year-end audits, with tight deadlines and a focus on accuracy
Strong analytical skills needed to interpret complex financial data effectively
Clear communication skills needed to present findings to clients or management, blending technical expertise with interpersonal abilities
Balancing multiple demands while maintaining high standards, making resilience and time management essential for success

Advantages

Despite these challenges, there are numerous advantages that make the auditor and accountant careers rewarding, including:

Job stability and demand, as businesses of all sizes need skilled professionals to manage financial complexities and ensure compliance
Diverse career opportunities across industries like corporate finance, government, and more, with potential for upward mobility
Competitive salaries and benefits that reflect the expertise and qualifications required in the field
Transferable analytical and problem-solving skills that enhance business decision-making and support personal and professional growth

Career-relevant skills

In today's competitive job market, possessing the right skills is essential for standing out, especially in the auditor and accountant career paths. Employers are on the lookout for candidates who not only bring technical expertise but also a suite of complementary skills that drive success. These are the top skills currently sought after in candidates for accountant and auditor roles:

Specialized skills

INDIVIDUAL SKILLS

Accounting
Auditing
Finances
Financial statements
Generally accepted accounting principles
General ledger
Internal controls
Month-end closing
External auditing
Accounts payable

Common skills

INDIVIDUAL SKILLS

Managing
Operations
Budgeting
Research
Writing

Software skills

INDIVIDUAL SKILLS

Microsoft Office
Accounting software
SAP applications
QuickBooks (accounting software)
Spreadsheets

Soft skills

INDIVIDUAL SKILLS

Problem solving
Effective communication
Judgement and decision making
Time management
Attention to detail


Skill categories	Individual skills
Specialized skills Specialized skills	Specialized skills Accounting Accreditation Finance Financial statements Generally accepted accounting principals	Specialized skills General ledger Internal controls Month-end closing External auditing Accounts payable
Common skills Common skills	Common skills Management Operations Budgeting	Common skills Research Writing
Software skills Software skills	Software skills Microsoft office Accounting software SAP applications	Software skills QuickBooks (accounting software) Spreadsheets
Soft skills^[1] Soft skills^[1]	Soft skills^[1] Problem solving Effective communication Judgement and decision making	Soft skills^[1] Time management Attention to detail

[1] Soft skills for this job title were sourced from

Education and experience

If you aspire to pursue the auditor or accountant careers, there are certain academic qualifications, credentials and work experiences that can guide you toward achieving your goals. Here are a few essential steps to help you prepare for a career in accounting or auditing:

A happy accounting bachelor's degree graduate walks at the commencement ceremony

Enroll in a bachelor's degree program in accounting, business or a related field. A solid academic foundation is crucial for understanding core concepts and principles essential to the profession.

An auditor, carrying a notepad, enters the hallway at her place of business.

Seek internships or entry-level positions in accounting firms or financial departments. Hands-on experience is invaluable for applying theoretical knowledge in real-world situations and developing practical skills.

An auditor talks with a colleague in an office setting

Consider pursuing certification as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA). These credentials can not only enhance your qualifications but also can increase your marketability and career advancement opportunities in the accounting and auditing fields.

An accountant, viewed from overhead, seated at a desk covered with papers and a laptop

Career enhancement

Reaching your initial career goals is often just the start of an exciting professional journey. As an accountant or auditor, embracing lifelong learning is crucial to enhancing your knowledge and skills, thereby preparing you for new and rewarding opportunities.

As you advance in your accounting or auditing career, numerous growth possibilities can open up at different stages, including roles such as senior accountant, audit manager, financial controller or eventually chief financial officer (CFO). Alternatively, you might explore specialized areas such as forensic accounting, becoming a tax specialist or focusing on internal auditing.

Here are a few tips for advancing within the accounting and auditing career path:

Gain diverse experience: Work across different industries or sectors to broaden your expertise and become more versatile in your field.
Stay updated with industry trends: Keep abreast of the latest developments in accounting standards, regulatory changes and technology advancements to maintain a competitive edge.
Develop leadership skills: Enhance your leadership and managerial skills through training and practical experience to prepare for roles with greater responsibility.
Network actively: Build a robust professional network through industry events, seminars and online platforms to gain insights and opportunities.
Seek mentorship: Learn from experienced professionals who can provide guidance, advice and support as you navigate your career path.

By focusing on continuous growth and development, you can carve out a fulfilling and dynamic career path in accounting and auditing.

Programs

At 91��Ƭ��, we offer undergraduate and graduate programs that prepare students for the auditor and accountant career outcomes. Our programs allow you to fit your education into your busy schedule, taking one course at a time in five- to six-week intervals. Learn more about which of these programs — focused on teaching you the principles and skills you’ll need in your career — is right for you.

Bachelor of Science in Accounting

�ճ󾱲��online bachelor's in accounting program^[2] prepares you with the financial skills you need to help organizations run efficiently. Develop specialized skills in managerial accounting, estate taxation, advanced topics in accounting research and more. This program does not lead to any certification or licensure including Certified Financial Planner (CFP) or Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

In this program, you'll learn how to:

Integrate generally accepted accounting principles throughout the accounting cycle
Evaluate accounting and financial information to make business decisions
Integrate ethical, legal and accounting standards and assumptions into financial practices
Integrate business practices into accounting and financial operations

The length of our bachelor’s programs is four years, and each course spans five weeks. To earn this degree, you are required to complete 120 credits through courses in general, core and elective topics.

The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) has accredited the following programs offered by the College of Business and Information Technology or the College of Doctoral Studies.

Associate of Arts with a concentration in Accounting Fundamentals^[3]
Associate of Arts with a concentration in Business Fundamentals
Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Bachelor of Science in Business
Master of Business Administration
Master of Management
Master of Science in Accountancy^[3]
Doctor of Business Administration
Doctor of Management

For additional information, visit acbsp.org.

Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
8101 College Blvd #100
Overland Park, KS 66210

[3] These programs are not available for new enrollments.

Graduate Accounting Certificate

The Graduate Accounting Certificate program^[2] prepares students with skills that can be used on the job in areas like managerial accounting, auditing, financial reporting and accounting information systems. This program does not lead to any certification or licensure including Certified Financial Planner (CFP) or Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

In this program, you'll learn how to:

Apply accounting concepts to real-world situations
Use analytical tools and technologies
Consider legal, ethical and social values in accounting
Make managerial accounting and capital budgeting statements
Comply with federal tax laws

The length of this program is seven months, and each course spans six weeks. To earn this certificate, you are required to complete 15 credits in five core courses.

Enroute to completing your Bachelor of Science in Accounting degree, you have the option to earn an online Associate of Arts (Business Fundamentals Concentration). This option allows you to gain an associate degree within two years of your program while you work towards your bachelor’s degree. It can also open doors to entry-level job prospects that align with the outcomes of both programs.

Alternatively, you can also get a head start on earning a master’s degree. Through our Business Master’s Pathway, you have the option to take up to three graduate-level courses from our online MBA program��ǰ� online master's in management programs while pursuing your Bachelor of Science in Accounting degree.

[2] Each state sets forth standards required to be eligible to take the CPA exam and apply for licensure or certification as a CPA. While this program was designed with consideration for the standards proposed by the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA®), 91��Ƭ�� cannot, and will not, provide any assurance that completion of this program will allow a successful student to qualify within the student’s specific jurisdiction. Potential applicants should check with the appropriate organization within their jurisdiction to determine if this program, combined with their undergraduate degree and any other specific criteria, meets the requirements to qualify for examination in that specific jurisdiction. States frequently change their requirements for examination. There is no assurance that at the time of degree completion the specific jurisdiction’s requirements will be consistent with the requirements at the time of admission.

How can 91��Ƭ�� support me in pursuing my career goals?

Students and graduates can access our Career Navigator tools, which can help you evaluate career options, track career-relevant skills and discover job postings suited to your needs. From resumé building and interview preparation to networking and mentorship, 91��Ƭ�� offers career services for life to all students and graduates. Dive deeper into our career services, resources and tools to find out how we can help you reach your goals.

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An accountant uses a laptop and ledger to reconcile accounts

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Career Guide
Accountant and auditor