Explore Accounting Careers

Accounting is a technology‑driven, analytical field focused on financial reporting and analysis, tax strategy and compliance, audit and assurance, data analytics and automation, risk management and internal controls, and advisory and consulting services. Whether or not you pursue the CPA, the profession offers diverse career paths across business, government, finance, and consulting, and beyond – start exploring below!

BRANCHES
Managerial: Branch of accounting focused on providing stakeholders within an organization with financial information and analysis. Focused on internal users, it helps managers plan, control and make operational and strategic decisions (also known as cost accounting).

Financial: Branch of accounting systematically records, analyzes, and reports an organization’s financial transactions and activities. Follows established principles and standards to create standardized financial statements, providing external stakeholders with a clear and accurate snapshot of the entity’s financial position and performance.

SERVICES
Audit & Assurance: financial audits, internal controls, compliance
Tax: corporate, individual, international, transaction planning
Advisory/Consulting: risk, IT/cybersecurity, M&A, analytics, process improvement
Forensic Accounting: fraud investigations, litigation support
Business Valuation: modeling, company and asset valuation

FIRM TYPES
Big Four (Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG)
National (Grant Thornton, BDO, RSM, CBIZ)
Regional (CLA, Marcum, MBK, CohnReznik)
Local/Boutique (specialized practices)

CAREER PATHING
Public Accounting
Firms serving external clients with structured training and broad industry exposure.
Potential Roles: Staff Accountant, Associate, Audit Associate, Tax Associate

Corporate (Private) Accounting
Work inside a single organization supporting internal financial operations.
Potential Roles: Staff Accountant, Cost Accountant, Budget Analyst, Financial Analyst, Internal Auditor, Treasury Analyst

Finance & Financial Services
Accounting majors excel in analytical and risk‑focused roles.
Potential Roles: Credit Analyst, Banking Analyst, Investment Analyst, Risk Analyst, Compliance Analyst, Treasury Analyst

Internal Audit & Risk Management
Focus on internal controls, cybersecurity, and organizational risk.
Potential Roles: audit Associate, Staff Internal Auditor, Audit Analyst

Government & Non-Profit Accounting
Stable, mission‑driven roles with strong benefits.
Potential Roles: Government Accountant, Grants Analyst, Budget Officer, Compliance Specialist

Data Analytics & Accounting
Fast‑growing area blending accounting with data and systems automation.
Potential Roles: Data Analyst, BI Analyst, Systems Accountant, ERP/Finance Systems Specialist

Consulting & Business Advisory
Ideal for those who enjoy problem‑solving, communication, and project‑based work.
Areas: operations, technology implementation, process improvement, risk consulting

Entrepreneurial Paths
Accounting knowledge supports business ownership.
Areas: bookkeeping services, financial coaching, small business consulting, e‑commerce

CERTIFICATIONS
CMA: Corporate accounting, financial planning and analysis (FP&A), cost accounting
CIA: Internal audit, risk, compliance
CFE: Forensic accounting, investigations
CFA: Investment, financial analysis
FMVA: FP&A, valuation, corporate finance