Excellent Accounting Jobs You Can Get with an Online Accounting Degree

Many people tend to think accountants are people that are stuck in a boring job, but accounting jobs can be both emotionally and especially financially rewarding. Accounting careers tend to be one of the most stable careers too, because every company needs accountants. In fact, there are several jobs that are available to those who have accounting degrees. Here's just a few:

Tax Accountant - This is probably the most commonly thought of accounting job. Although one of the main jobs that a tax accountant does is to prepare tax returns for individuals and companies, there are also many other responsibilities of a tax accountant. He or she helps to prepare quarterly and annual reports for corporations. Tax accountants also act as consultants because they advise their customers on how make decisions that will help them maximize their returns. An example of this would be deducting a car purchase for a business. Many tax accountants also act as bookkeepers for companies.

Auditor - There are two types of auditors, external and internal. External auditors often work with larger accounting firms or with the IRS. They come in to a company to make sure their books and reports are prepared in accordance with what is called the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. In addition, many companies must adhere to Sarbanes-Oxley rules, so the auditors will work to ensure the companies are in compliance.

Financial Analyst - A financial analyst helps to make sure a company's budget meets expectations. They are involved in a myriad of accounting functions to help the company to make money. This includes ensuring the company is paid for its services as well as makes sure the company pays for the services of its vendors or contractors, though they do not do the collections themselves.

Billing and Collections - Accountants in this field ensure that companies invoice and collect on any contracts or sub-contracts the company might have. Accountants deal with complex contracts to construct monthly invoices and then follow up with clients to ensure the company gets paid.

Because accounting provides such a good background in financial issues, accountants are also able to go into fields that are financially related, but not necessarily classified as accounting jobs. This is one reason an accounting degree can prove to be both valuable and versatile.

One of the best ways to get an accounting degree, especially for working professionals, stay-at-home moms, or people looking for direction in their studies, is to go through an online university. There are many universities who provide quality education to obtain an accounting degree completely online. There are also several accredited universities that are online only. Be sure to do research to find the university that will best suit you can get you on your way to a highly rewarding accounting degree.

Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, FASB.gov
Sarbanes-Oxley Act, Wikipedia