Career Roadmap to become an Accountant
Many people assume accounting is a one-dimensional field. However, as technology advances and businesses become larger and more complex, Accountants are no longer number crunchers. They are strategic advisors who impact the functioning and sustainability of a business.
Step One: Ask Yourself!
If you have a strong work ethic and you are skilled with numbers, you may find a career in accounting to be fulfilling. To prepare for your accounting career, ask yourself:
● What sector do I want to work in — public, private or financial services?
● What areas of accounting are interesting?
● What areas of accounting are not of interest?
● How much time am I willing to dedicate to my education in accounting?
● What level of qualifications do I need for my desired accounting role?
Step Two: Where to Now?
For entry-level accounting positions, a bachelor’s degree is the standard minimum requirement. A bachelor’s degree in accounting provides you with a foundational knowledge of accounting principles and theories. Some schools also offer specialized accounting programs that can help you meet specific requirements for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) exams.
Institutions which offer Accounting Programs in Saint Lucia:
- Monroe College (Saint Lucia)
- University of The West Indies Open Campus
- LightSparc Training
Tip: For students who are still deciding, choosing CSEC/CXC courses in Principles of Accounting may help.
Step Three: Gaining Relevant Work Experience
Most accounting positions require some degree of work experience. You can gain this experience through internships, part-time jobs, or entry-level accounting positions across a number of industries and local companies.
Successful accountants possess strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills. Developing these skills through coursework, internships, and work experience can help you stand out in the field.
Remember! Every company needs someone to manage their money.
Step Four: Picking an Accounting Specialty
Rather than simply being an accountant, you should aim to be an accountant skilled in a specific sector. This could be forensic accounting, personal finance planning, or a host of other specialties.
- Tax accounting
- Business valuation
- Nonprofit accounting
- Government finance
- Auditing
- Environmental accounting
- International accounting
- Information management and technology assurance
- Personal finance accounting
Step Five: After Becoming a Certified Accountant
Continuously building relationships with other accounting professionals will help you learn about job opportunities and stay up-to-date on key industry developments. As accounting standards and regulations change, joining professional organizations or attending industry events can be a great way to stay current and maintain your certifications.
Average Salaries in Accounting in the USA, UK and The Caribbean
These are the AVERAGE annual salaries which accountants earn in the USA, UK and the Caribbean.
The United States of America- $61,000US to $99,800US annually
The United Kingdom- £40,000 to £84,000 annually
The Caribbean- $45,240.00XCD to $162,588XCD annually
