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Employment remains stable amidst economic fluctuations. Some professions take a hard slap when the economy dives. But not accounting.

Accounting has been around since the beginning of trade. Through the years of continuing development, it has become a major player in the professional field. Today, it continues to accommodate a great number of business professionals around the world. Careers in accounting are flourishing along with the increased demand for its services. It is indeed one of the most promising professions.

This article will provide you information about accounting careers and give you some ideas on how you could build a good one. We will first settle some questions about accounting as a career choice; second, present the different areas of practice; and third, take a look at the specialized branches of accounting.

Is Accounting a Good Career Choice?

One of the frequently asked questions regarding this matter is this: Is accounting a good career? I hear that a lot especially from my accounting and financial management students. I also see that question posted in accounting forums and around the net.

People have different takes on this and the answer depends upon what you want in life, really. Now that would be a totally different (and quite long) topic so let's not go into that. I'll give you the hard facts instead. If you ask me, well, I'd say yes. I think accounting is a good career choice. And I'll tell you why.

Accounting offers a stable rate of employment amidst economic fluctuations. Some professions may take a big slap when the economy takes a dive. But not accounting. Businesses need to track their operations to be able to find ways to survive economic plunges. They need to report their earnings to the state and pay taxes, regardless of the economic situation. Managers need to regularly furnish monthly or quarterly reports to the board. Get the idea?

Accounting has become a necessity in business. And with the massive business activity we have (and will continue to have), there's just plenty of work for new and seasoned accountants.

Accounting professionals enjoy decent remuneration. The salary range for accountants vary according to job description, level of experience, educational background, location and other factors. Bookkeepers, accounting technicians and clerks receive an average of $15,000 to as high as $40,000 annually. Young certified accountants' salary ranges from $30,000 to $60,000 while seasoned accountants and top management officers receive as high as $200,000 per annum.

In accounting, practitioners have a wide selection of fields and areas of practice to choose from. You can work as an employee with steady shifts and routinary tasks if you want. Also, with sufficient qualifications, you can work as a freelancer (sole practitioner) and have your own clients. Business organizations will need your expertise to prepare, analyze, or audit their financial statements. You can also work as an instructor in the academe; become a book author, a fraud investigator, or an information systems specialist. That's how vast the opportunities are in this profession.

Now let me point out one important fact. In the past, holding a bachelor's degree is sufficient to land into a good job. It still is a qualification but with the increase in competition in the employment market today, you've got to stand out.

On the next pages, we will take a look at the broad areas of practice and specialized branches of accounting to help you picture and plan your career path.

Purpose of Accounting and The Users of Financial Statements

Types of Business and Forms of Ownership