Do You Need an Accounting Degree to Be an Accountant? Everything You Need to Know

Aug 05, 2026AccountingComments (0)

Many people think you need to attend college for four years to become an accountant. The truth is that some accounting roles do require you to earn an accounting degree, and others do not.

If you want to work as an accountant, bookkeeper, tax accountant, or in finance, you have probably asked yourself, Do I need an accounting degree to be an accountant?

Not necessarily.

While many big accounting firms and corporations require an accounting degree, there are entry-level positions and specific fields that do not require higher education to advance your accounting career.

This guide will help clarify the requirements, alternatives, mistakes to avoid, and other essential details for building an accounting career.

What is an Accountant?

Before diving into the details of whether you need an accounting degree or not, it is essential to understand what an accountant does.

An accountant manages their personal or business finances, analyzes and prepares financial reports for individuals and businesses, supervises, and advises on financial matters. Some accountants handle payroll, budgeting, and tax preparation for businesses and individuals.

Responsibilities:

  • Recordkeeping
  • Preparing tax returns
  • Preparing financial statements
  • Payroll management
  • Managing cash flow
  • Budgeting and forecasting
  • Audits
  • Advising businesses
  • Legal and tax compliance

Some accountants specialize in taxation, while others work in auditing, bookkeeping, finance, or corporate advisory services.

Do I Need an Accounting Degree to Be an Accountant?

It depends on what kind of accountant you want to be.

Jobs That Require an Accounting Degree

These accounting jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance:

  • Public accountant
  • Financial accountant
  • Auditor
  • Tax accountant
  • Corporate accountant
  • Financial analyst
  • Government accountant
  • Controller
  • Chief financial officer (CFO)

Many accounting jobs require higher education because they deal with complex laws, financial matters, and standards.

Jobs You Can Get as an Accountant Without an Accounting Degree

There are entry-level jobs, smaller firms, and specific fields that value competency over experience.

Some of them include:

  • Bookkeeper
  • Payroll Specialist
  • Accountant clerks
  • Accounting assistant
  • Accounts payable clerk
  • Accounts receivable specialist
  • Data-entry clerks
  • Small business accounting support

Most people get accounting jobs without degrees and then continue studying to become competitive in the job market.

Can I Become an Accountant Without Going to College?

You can become an accountant without going to college, but it might limit your options.

You will need to know how to do the job, which skills are required, and gain experience to become competitive in the job market.

Accounting skills required for entry-level jobs:

  • Accounting principles
  • Excel and Spreadsheet
  • Payroll management
  • Financial reporting
  • Taxation
  • Bookkeeping
  • Communication
  • Analytical skills

Some accounting software is necessary to know when seeking jobs as an accountant. These include:

  • QuickBooks
  • Xero
  • FreshBooks
  • Sage
  • Excel

Most small businesses value skills over experience and education. The most sought-after skills in accounting are bookkeeping, payroll management, and tax accounting.

How to Become an Accountant Without an Accounting Degree

If you want to become an accountant without an accounting degree, here is what to do:

Step 1: Learn Accounting Principles

Start by studying accounting, including assets, liabilities, income statements, balance sheets, cash flows, and taxes. You can start by taking software courses, attending workshops, enrolling in community college, getting certifications, or self-studying.

Step 2: Accounting Software

Most companies now use accounting technology to manage their finances. You should be familiar with QuickBooks, Excel, Xero, SAP, Oracle, and Wave accounting software. Experience using accounting software is sometimes more valuable than experience with accounting principles.

Step 3: Certifications

You can also become an accountant without a degree by attending certification courses and earning relevant credentials. Some of the popular accounting certifications include CB, EA, QuickBooks ProAdvisor, and CMA. Note that CPA certification typically requires you to have a college degree.

Step 4: Experience

You should also gain experience working as an accountant, even if it is on a part-time basis. Most companies value experience over skills and education. You can gain experience by completing internships, working as an accounting assistant or freelancer, volunteering, or helping small businesses with accounting tasks.

Step 5: Continue Learning

The best way to continue developing your accounting knowledge is by attending seminars, taking online courses, being a member of professional organizations, and reading accounting magazines. The field of accounting is continuously evolving, which means there is always something new to learn.

Do I Need a Degree to Become a Licensed CPA?

Yes. To become a CPA, or certified public accountant, you need at least a bachelor’s degree. CPA eligibility requires 150 credit hours, relevant work experience, and passing the CPA exam.

Certified public accountants are in demand, especially in big companies and organizations. CPA is one of the most marketable certifications, and many accountants choose to become CPAs to increase their chances of landing better jobs.

Do I Need a Degree in Accounting to Become an Accountant?

It depends on the type of accountant you want to become and the company you intend to work for. Most corporations require accountants with bachelor’s degrees, while small firms may value experience and skills more.

A degree gives you accounting knowledge, helps you stand out from other candidates, earns higher salaries, gains credibility, and makes you eligible to sit for the CPA exams. On the other hand, experience helps you gain skills, software proficiency, and industry-specific knowledge.

How Accounting Firms Evaluate Potential Employees

Big accounting firms look for candidates with degrees, CPA eligibility, internship experience, and good grades. Small firms and corporations value relevant skills, certifications, customer service skills, and industry-specific knowledge.

Some companies are willing to train motivated and competent individuals lacking experience and attention to detail.

Mistakes to Avoid When Pursuing an Accounting Career

Assuming that bookkeeping and accounting are the same thing.

While related, bookkeeping and accounting are entirely different areas.

Lacking technological proficiency

Most companies use accounting software to simplify financial tasks and reduce costs. As a result, accounting knowledge alone is not sufficient; you should also be proficient in accounting technology.

Failing to gain experience

While experience is optional, it can give you an advantage, especially if you lack a degree or relevant skills. The most practical way to gain experience is by working as an assistant or freelancer.

Not considering certifications

Certifications are important and can help boost your credentials, skills, and experience, making you stand out from other candidates.

Lacking communication skills

Most accountants deal with people directly, whether clients or colleagues. Strong communication skills help you convey information effectively and promote your services or company.

Careers in accounting

There are various types of careers in accounting, including

  • Public accountants
  • Tax accountants
  • Auditors
  • Corporate accountants
  • Payroll managers
  • Budget analysts
  • Financial consultants
  • Internal auditors
  • Accountant controllers
  • CFOs
  • Small business advisors

Many accounting firms, such as Walker Advisory LLC, provide a wide range of services, from small business advisory services to executive-level consulting services.

How Much Can You Earn as an Accountant?

The salary prospects of an accountant depend on experience, certifications, location, education level, and the company. Most accountants with CPA certification and relevant experience earn higher salaries. Other factors that contribute to higher wages include working in high-paying industries, such as finance, having superior analytical skills, working in metro regions, and having a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

Is an Accounting Degree Worth It?

It depends on your goals, aspirations, and financial status. An accounting degree can help you become more marketable and give you an advantage over other candidates without degrees or certifications. However, if you plan on being a bookkeeper or working in small-business accounting, an accounting degree may not be worth it.

Expert Tips on Building a Career as an Accountant

If you want to build a successful accounting career, here are some of the most essential tips:

  • Learn Excel
  • Learn as much as you can about accounting.
  • Get hands-on experience
  • Understand accounting technology
  • Network
  • Keep learning about the latest tax laws.
  • Get certified
  • Focus on improving your communication skills.
  • Develop strong attention to detail and organizational skills

Accounting: FAQs

Is It Possible To Be An Accountant Without A Degree?

It is certainly possible to be an accountant without a degree in accounting.

Are There Jobs In Accounting That Do Not Require Degrees?

While many accounting jobs require at least some amount of formal education, there are some that do not. Many entry-level jobs allow you to learn and gain experience before moving on and getting a degree.

Can I Become A CPA Without An Accounting Degree?

Becoming a CPA typically requires you to have at least a bachelor’s degree.

What Is The Difference Between An Accountant And A Bookkeeper?

An accountant analyzes financial reports, whereas a bookkeeper prepares financial reports.

Do Accounting Firms Hire People Without Accounting Degrees?

While big and well-known accounting firms typically hire people with degrees, some small companies do hire people without degrees.

What Certification Can I Get If I Do Not Have an Accounting Degree?

If you do not have an accounting degree, some certifications that you can consider include:

✓ QuickBooks ProAdvisor

✓ Certified Bookkeeper

✓ Enrolled Agent

Is Accounting a Good Career in 2026?

Yes, accounting is definitely a good career path to take in 2026. Accounting offers great stability, job security, and financial rewards to those who choose to pursue it.

Final Thoughts

You might not need an accounting degree to become an accountant, but it all depends on your goals. There are certainly many jobs that do not require degrees, such as bookkeeping or working as an entry-level accountant.

If, however, you want to become a CPA, work for bigger accounting firms or advance in the field, then it is definitely best to get an accounting degree. With the right combination of knowledge, experience, and skills, as well as the willingness to continue learning and improve on existing skills, you will be able to become as successful as you hope to be in accounting.