Finance

How to become a Controller

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

Time to get there

6–10 years

Typical pay

$115k–$165k

Starting from

Accountant

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 accountant and includes any licence or programme legally required, not just course length.

The route

1. 1

   5–8 years

   Build accounting depth

   Close, consolidation, and technical accounting judgement.

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

   Get the CPA

   Effectively expected at this level, even where it is not formally required.

   ◆ CPA

3. 3

   2–3 years

   Run a close cycle end to end

   Accounting manager is the seat where you prove you can own it.

4. 4

   Learn systems and controls

   ERP ownership and SOX-style controls are half the modern controller role.

   Course that covers thisLearn Business and Financial ModelingUdemy · around $19.99 →
5. ✓

   Destination

   Controller

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