How To Become an Accountant Without a Degree

Accountants help individuals and businesses manage their money. There are many accounting jobs, from bookkeeper to public accountant to payroll specialist. While some accounting roles require a college degree, many do not. Keep reading to discover how to become an accountant without a degree.

Can You Become an Accountant Without a Degree?

It is possible to become an accountant without a degree. Several types of accounting jobs don't require a degree.

However, it's important to note that many common industry certifications, such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Certified Management Accountant (CMA), require at least a bachelor's degree. For example, the CPA exam requires a minimum of 120 college credits and to earn your CPA license you need 150 credit hours.

Can You Become an Accountant With an Unrelated Degree?

Just like you can become an accountant without a degree, you can become an accountant with an unrelated degree. However, in most states, you will still not be able to earn your CPA license, as you must have graduated with an accounting degree.

Steps To Becoming an Accountant Without a Degree

Although becoming an accountant without a degree can be a little harder, it's still possible. We've outlined several steps to become an accountant without a degree.

1. Gain Relevant Work Experience

One of the best ways to start in the accounting industry is to gain experience. Even with a degree, many accounting firms prefer you to have work experience.

There are a few ways to gain experience in accounting. These include:

• Join an internship. While these are normally for college students, some internships are open to those not in a degree program.
• Volunteering with local and nonprofit organizations to help with their bookkeeping can be a great way to get your foot in the door
• Find jobs adjacent to accounting and finance, like at a bank.
• Work in a role such as a secretary or an office assistant, which will help you hone your organizational skills, familiarize you with things like spreadsheets, and allow you to network.

2. Earn Accounting Certifications

There are a few different professional certifications for accounting that do not require you to have a four-year degree. We've listed a few of these professional accounting certification programs below.

Certified Public Bookkeeper (CPB)

The Certified Public Bookkeeper credential is a professional certification offered by the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers. You'll need to take the Accounting Fundamentals course and pass the certification exam to earn this certification.

The accounting course covers topics like:

• business transactions
• accounting for sales and accounting for purchases
• accounts receivable and accounts payable
• payroll
• financial statements

Once you've completed the course, you'll be eligible for the exam. You must receive a minimum of 75% on the course and exam to receive the certificate.

Enrolled Agent (EA)

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offers the Enrolled Agent (EA) certification. Enrolled agents represent taxpayers before the IRS. You'll need to pass the certification exam to earn the EA certification. No coursework is included, but study materials are available.

3. Network With Accounting Professionals

Networking is a great way to connect with financial accounting professionals. One great way to network is by attending industry events, like conventions or conferences. This allows you to meet with professionals in a variety of accounting positions. Another option is to work an entry-level accounting or administrative job for a company with a strong accounting department. This allows you to connect with others in that department and also helps you get hands-on experience.

4. Develop Technical Skills

The reason many accounting roles require a degree or have accounting experience requirements is that there are several technical skills that accountants need to know. However, you don't need to complete an accounting program to learn these skills.

Common technical skills needed to be an accountant include:

• business intelligence software
• data management
• QuickBooks
• research
• spreadsheet software
• tax preparation software

It is not necessary to obtain a college degree to obtain these skills. You can teach yourself or take classes that focus on these specific topics.

5. Build a Strong Portfolio

A portfolio can be your ticket to getting an accounting job, especially if you don't meet educational requirements. Portfolios showcase your work so you can prove your experience to employers. You should update your portfolio as you earn certificates and experience. This keeps it up-to-date as new job opportunities come along.

6. Stay Updated on Accounting Standards

All accountants need to follow the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). These government-established principles set the standards for accounting in the United States. CAAP covers multiple topics, and knowledge of these topics is imperative for accounting professionals. Professionals must stay updated for when these standards change to ensure they comply with current law.

Alternative Accounting Career Paths for Non-Degree Holders

There are several accounting degree paths for non-degree holders and non-accounting majors. While an accounting degree isn't required for these roles, some employers may need them. These roles generally do not require licensure.

Bookkeeper

Bookkeepers work for businesses or companies and are responsible for that business's accounts, also called the general ledger. Their job is to record transactions, costs, and income. As a bookkeeper, you must produce financial statements and reports and prepare bank deposits. Some also handle payroll and prepare invoices depending on the company.

Accounting Clerk

Accounting clerks also work for businesses or companies but usually hold more specialized roles in larger companies. They often focus on a specific type of financial information, like accounts payable or accounts receivable. Entry-level accounting clerks have more basic tasks, like posting transaction records. You can work your way up in this role, and more experienced accounting clerks handle more advanced tasks like ensuring financial data is complete and accurate.

Tax Preparer

Tax preparers file tax returns for individuals and businesses. They must follow all legal guidelines while getting their client everything they're owed. This includes gathering and verifying tax information as well as preparing the returns. Tax preparers must stay updated on tax laws, as these change yearly.

Financial Analyst

Financial analysts are responsible for helping individuals and businesses decide what to do with their finances to reach their goals. They can work specifically for people or large and small businesses. Their job includes reviewing financial records and current economic trends and advising clients. Those working for businesses may also prepare written reports and meet with managers.

Payroll Specialist

Payroll specialists work for businesses and companies to manage their payroll. They may work for the company's HR department or the finance department. The responsibilities of a payroll specialist include payroll processing, like keeping accurate records of employee payments and maintaining budgetary expenditures. They may also do things like:

• track invoices from contract workers
• address contract issues
• handle payroll inquiries from employees