Careers in Accounting

Our students have many options open to them after graduating. Most jobs require at least a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field.

Graduates who obtain professional recognition through certification or licensure, a master's degree, proficiency in accounting and auditing computer software, or specialized expertise will have an advantage in the job market.

Competition will remain keen for the most prestigious jobs in major accounting and business firms. An increase in the number of businesses, changing financial laws and regulations, and increased scrutiny of company finances will drive growth in employment.

Career Outcomes

Many accounting students may choose to continue their education to receive certifications, licenses, or advanced degrees (MBA, MAcc). Past students have chosen to continue their education at prestigious institutions including:

  • The University of Scranton
  • Villanova University
  • Drexel University
  • Loyola University
  • Seton Hall University

Typically, internships will turn into full time careers. Many of our graduates earn jobs with top employers such as:

  • The"Big 4" accounting firms (KPMG, PwC, Deloitte, Ernst & Young)
  • Baker Tilly
  • Grant Thornton
  • SEI Investments 
  • Johnson & Johnson
  • Bank of America

The Accounting Department Professional Alumni Council (ADPAC) is a network of alumni whose goal is to further our students' careers. With the help of university staff and ADPAC, students have the chance to be exposed to a wide range of jobs and companies. There are many career paths available to graduates. Some students study to become Certified Public Accountants (CPAs), while others may choose a path in corporate accounting. There are many opportunities within the field of accounting including, but not limited to, those listed below. 

In 2019, the average starting salary for all accounting graduates was $57,967.

Source: The University's six-month post-graduation survey for the Class of 2019 (bachelor's and master's graduates)

Accountants and Auditors

Accountants and auditors prepare and examine financial records. Most employers require a candidate to have a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field. Certification within a specific field of accounting improves job prospects. For example, many accountants become Certified Public Accountants (CPAs).

Employment of accountants and auditors is projected to grow 4 percent from 2019 to 2029, about as fast as the average for all occupations. In general, employment growth of accountants and auditors is expected to be closely tied to the health of the overall economy. As the economy grows, more workers should be needed to prepare and examine financial records.

To learn more about this career, visit the Occupational Outlook Handbook page for Accountants and Auditors.

Bookkeeping, Accounting and Auditing Clerks

Bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks produce financial records for organizations and check financial records for accuracy. Most bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks need some post-secondary education and also learn some of their skills on the job. They must have basic math and computer skills, including knowledge of spreadsheets and bookkeeping software.

Employment of bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks is projected to decline 6 percent from 2019 to 2029. Technological change and automation are expected to reduce demand for these workers.

To learn more about this career, visit the Occupational Outlook Handbook page for Bookkeeping, Accounting and Auditing Clerks.

Financial Analysts

Financial analysts provide guidance to businesses and individuals making investment decisions.

Employment of financial analysts is projected to grow 5 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. A growing range of financial products and the need for in-depth knowledge of geographic regions are expected to lead to strong employment growth.

To learn more about this career, visit the Occupational Outlook Handbook page for Financial Analysts.

Personal Financial Advisors

Personal financial advisors provide advice to help individuals manage their finances and plan for their financial future. Most personal financial advisors work in the finance and insurance industry or are self-employed. 

Employment of personal financial advisors is projected to grow 4 percent from 2019 to 2029, about as fast as the average for all occupations. As the population ages and life expectancies rise, demand for financial planning services should increase.

To learn more about this career, visit the Occupational Outlook Handbook page for Personal Financial Advisors.

Tax Examiners and Collectors, and Revenue Agents

Tax Examiners and Collectors, and Revenue Agents determine tax liability or collect taxes from individuals or business firms according to prescribed laws and regulations. Industries with the highest levels of employment in this occupation include the Federal Executive Branch (OES Designation) and State and Local governments. 

To learn more about this career, visit the Occupational Outlook Handbook page for Tax Examiners and Collectors, and Revenue Agents.

Budget Analysts

Budget analysts help public and private institutions organize their finances. Employment of budget analysts is projected to grow 3 percent from 2019 to 2029, about as fast as the average for all occupations. The demand for budget analysts should continue because of the importance of their role in managing the allocation of funds in both governments and businesses.

To learn more about this career, visit the Occupational Outlook Handbook page for Budget Analysts.

Management Analysts

Management analysts recommend ways to improve an organization’s efficiency. They may have to travel frequently to meet with clients. Employment of management analysts is projected to grow 11 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. Demand for the services of these workers is expected to increase as organizations continue to seek ways to improve efficiency and control costs.

To learn more about this career, visit the Occupational Outlook Handbook page for Management Analysts.

Financial Managers

Financial managers create financial reports, direct investment activities, and develop plans for the long-term financial goals of their organization. Financial managers typically need a bachelor’s degree and 5 years or more of experience in another business or financial occupation. 

Employment of financial managers is projected to grow 15 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. Several functions of financial managers, including cash management and risk management, are expected to be in high demand over the decade.

To learn more about this career, visit the Occupational Outlook Handbook page for Financial Managers

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