Pursuing a Career in Accounting with a Bachelor of Science Degree from University of Phoenix

Accountants are needed in nearly every field and industry. For those who are interested in a career with staying power and who enjoy balancing numbers, tracking costs and creating financial reports, accounting offers a promising career option. 

Regardless of the specific type of accounting someone is drawn to, from public to tax to finances, many accounting careers can begin at the same place: a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting such as the one available from University of Phoenix. Accounting degrees can prepare graduates for a number of career paths including as accountants, accountant managers, cost accountants, auditors and tax examiners. 

Over the course of four years, students in the accounting degree program at the University learn key skills needed to pursue accounting careers including accounting, auditing, financial statements and generally accepted accounting principles. At University of Phoenix, classes are held online for even greater flexibility. Each course takes just five weeks to complete and can be taken at whatever time of day works best for busy students.

What to Expect from the Accounting Degree Program at University of Phoenix

Those who pursue a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from University of Phoenix take 26 core courses specific to accounting as well as 12 general education courses that provide a basic educational foundation for all of the University’s degree programs. These include English Composition; Teamwork, Collaboration, and Conflict Resolution; and Quantitative Reasoning, a math course that teaches students to apply modeling skills, statistical methods and probability to find solutions to real-world problems.

Through the core courses, students learn how to integrate accepted accounting principles throughout the accounting cycle and financial practices, how to evaluate financial information and make business decisions, and how to integrate business practices into accounting and financial operations. Each course highlights a different facet of business operations students need to pursue an accounting career. There are courses focused on business communications and marketing, on finance for business and Quickbooks, and on the principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics. There are also numerous accounting courses that speak to specific career trajectories and can help guide students in the area of accounting most suited to their interests such as financial accounting, government and nonprofit accounting, managerial accounting, cost accounting and both corporate and individual taxation.  

The Day-to-Day Life of an Accountant

From coursework to an accounting career, students pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from University of Phoenix for their career will likely be involved in creating financial records and reports for the business where they work. Organizations across all industries generate substantial data that needs to be measured and evaluated to help guide decision making.

An accountant is often involved in creating business financial statements including a balance sheet as well as income and cash-flow statements. These financial documents are crucial for running a business effectively and provide important measurements of a company’s financial soundness to board members, shareholders and others. An accountant may also create reports around specific data points for executives and managers. 

And accountants play an important role in tracking the total costs of running an organization including manufacturing, marketing, research and development costs. This role helps the company to set a fair price for its products or services. There are also numerous complex regulations and tax laws that companies must adhere to and that accountants are trained to help companies navigate. Accountants can help ensure compliance whether a company is submitting financial reports to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or filing their annual tax returns so that all the financial data is accurately reported and meets all legal requirements.

About University of Phoenix

University of Phoenix is committed to advancing the educational goals of adult and nontraditional learners and to helping students navigate the career options that best suit their interests. The courses provide flexible start dates, online formats, and numerous scholarship opportunities to make it possible for anyone to pursue the degree they desire. In addition, the University’s Career Services for Life^® commitment to active students and alumni resources to help them be competitive in the workforce for no additional charge. These services include resume and interview support, career guidance, education and networking opportunities. For more information, visit www.phoenix.edu.