Finance

How to become an Accountant

From bookkeeper: every step, how long it takes, and the credential it earns.

Time to get there

2–4 years

Typical pay

$62k–$88k

Starting from

Bookkeeper

Pay is an estimate of typical US entry-level pay for this role and varies by state, employer and shift. The timeline assumes you are starting from bookkeeper and includes any licence or programme legally required, not just course length.

The route

1. 1

   4 years

   Get an accounting degree

   A bachelor's is the standard entry requirement, and the CPA path assumes it.

   Course that covers thisAccounting Fundamentals: From Zero to HeroUdemy · around $19.99 →
2. 2

   Learn the software

   QuickBooks for smaller firms, NetSuite or SAP in larger ones.

   Course that covers thisQuickBooks Online Made Easy: The Complete Course and ManualUdemy · around $19.99 →
3. 3

   1–2 years

   Start in staff accounting or audit

   Public accounting is harder and opens more doors; industry is gentler.

4. 4

   Decide on the CPA

   150 credit hours, four exams, and an experience requirement. It roughly doubles the ceiling.

   ◆ CPA

5. ✓

   Destination

   Accountant

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