How to Become an Accounting Assistant

Want to learn how to become an accounts assistant? This guide explores the required education and credentials for this career.

Accounting assistants are responsible for bookkeeping, budgeting, financial reporting, and account management. Unlike bookkeepers and accounting clerks, accounting assistants help accounting departments with customer service and administrative support.

Accounting assistant duties require strong problem-solving, analytical, and mathematical skills. Accounting assistants do not need an advanced degree or license to qualify for the job.

The following information can help job seekers find accounting assistant opportunities.

Online Accounting Courses with a Certificate

Accountants and auditors are essential to industries, including business, healthcare, technology and government. A degree in accounting could open the door to a wide range of career options.

What you learn in our accounting programs can come in handy as you prepare to take the Certified Public Accounting (CPA) exam.

Most states have additional requirements directly related to CPA examination preparation. Students should consult their respective state Board of Accountancy for further details.

following links to find out which accounting degree certificate level you want to choose to suit your goals:

Accounting Assistant Employment Process

The path to becoming an accounting assistant can vary depending on education and training. Higher education is not necessary to obtain an accounting assistant position—many job seekers find employment with a high school diploma or associate's degree. While many employers prefer a college degree, prior accounting knowledge and experience may be more valuable than an educational background.

The following sections describe common paths to becoming an accounting assistant.

Get a College Degree

Get a High School Diploma: Having a high school diploma or GED certificate is essential to qualify for a degree program at an accredited school.

Take an undergraduate accounting program: An associate's degree in accounting takes two years, while a bachelor's degree usually takes four years. Both degrees help develop the necessary accounting skills.

Get an Internship: Some companies offer internships and on-the-job training for accounting professionals. A six-month internship or training can develop the basic skills needed to become an accounting assistant. Qualified candidates can then seek full-time positions.

Build Experience: New graduates are often limited to entry-level accounting clerk or bookkeeping jobs with a limited scope of work. As they gain experience, they can move on to more advanced positions.