• examining, correcting, and interpreting accounting records and documents;

• recording costs and other data and checking for correctness;

• preparing financial reports;

• keeping up with changes in tax laws and accounting procedures;

• using computer spreadsheet software.

Many accountants do not have a certificate beyond the college diploma, but others get a Certified Public Accountant (C.P.A.) to open up more opportunities. A CPA must have several years of experience and pass a special state exam.

Education: A four-year degree in accounting

Certificates, licenses: Preferred: C.P.A. (Certified Public Accountant), P.A. (Public Accountant), R.P.A. (Registered Public Accountant) or A.P. (Accounting Practitioner)

Desirable traits and skills: Focused; written and oral communication skills; attention to detail; able to understand complex financial information; mathematical reasoning

For more information:

American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
Harborside Financial Center
201 Plaza III
Jersey City, NJ 07311-3881
http://www.aicpa.org

National Society of Accountants and the Accreditation Council for Accountancy and Taxation
1010 North Fairfax St.
Alexandria, VA 22314
http://www.nsacct.org