The basics
Accounting is very important in the business world, and involves the recording, reporting and analysis of financial transactions. The accounting sector is enormous and covers many areas, including:
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audit and advisory work
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taxation
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business consulting
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management accounting
One of the great attractions of becoming an accountant is the ability to use your skills and qualifications to secure employment in the international market place.
The global reputation of the ACA means that there are some great international opportunities available (12% of ACAs live and work overseas).
ACCA is particularly well positioned to support an international career: with members and students in over 170 countries and local offices in 80 countries.
However competition is fierce. According to the Professional Oversight Board for Accountancy, there are over 438,000 members and over 452,000 students in the seven accountancy bodies. The sector is considered to be stronger than other sectors, such as investment banking. It would be wise, however, to look at a wider spectrum of accounting firms instead of focusing solely on the Big Four.
Starting salaries are between £20k and £36k depending on the type of work and location. Many qualified accountants eventually become CEOs of organisations and command six figure salaries, as can Directors of Finance in both the public and private sectors.
Whether you choose to work in the corporate or public sector, financial services, or public practice, a career as an accountant means your work is central to making a business successful.
Useful links
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Download the Vault guide to Accounting for an overview of the profession
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See the Prospects website for descriptions of job roles in Accounting
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Go to Inside Careers for an example career path
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Visit Target Jobs for an extensive list of graduate profiles
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Keep up-to-date with Accountancy Age for accounting news
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Browse our accountancy bookmarks on Delicious