How to get an accounting job with no experience

To get an accounting job with no experience, use this guide:

If you want to get a job in accounting but don't have experience, you can either obtain a degree in accounting or seek an accounting job without a degree. The latter is less common.

We'll focus on the traditional route first.

Research accounting positions

It is important to know what type of accounting you want to pursue. Conduct a search of the different kinds of roles out there in the accounting realm and find out which ones most interest you.

Accounting positions run the gamut, they are at large and small companies and corporations, federal institutions, non-profits, and many other types of organizations. It helps if you can determine how big or small of an environment you want to work in as an accountant.

Get an accounting degree

To become a certified accountant, you should seek to earn an associate's or bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field. A master's degree may also be applicable for some high-level accountant positions.

Find a school that has an accounting program that best suits your goals, apply, and get a degree.

Get additional certifications

After obtaining the proper education, it is a good idea to pursue specific accounting certifications. This opens up your career opportunities for higher-level roles that have more impressive salaries.

Passing the CPA, or Certified Public Accountant, exam is one of the most common certifications accountants obtain. Many large and some small companies actually require this for accountant positions.

Get an internship

Internships are great opportunities to build your resume and gain some real-world experience. Go to career fairs at your college and talk with counselors to find accounting internship programs that might be right for you.

If you've already graduated you can contact your alumni association or just search online for internships and attend corporate events.

Entry-level positions in accounting are meant for those with education and certifications, but not much professional experience. Utilize these as it provides a great entryway into the industry, and usually the chance to move up the ladder at a company.

The less traditional route

Now, we can get into your second option of getting an accounting job with no experience. In this option you do not have to get an accounting degree, however, your job prospects will be much more limited.

The only jobs as an accountant that you can get without a degree are:

• Auditing clerk

• Accounting Assistant

• Accounting Clerk

• Bookkeeper

Nearly all other accounting jobs require a bachelor's degree or the passing of the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam.

In addition, you cannot take the CPA exam without a bachelor's degree in most states.

States that allow you to take the CPA exam without a bachelor's degree include:

• Alaska

• Georgia

• Maine

• Massachusetts

Take stock of what you already know about math and accounting concepts. Brush up and hone your math skills as they relate to accounting.

Next, you can enroll in an accounting certification course. These programs exist online and in person, and prepare you for certification exams you have to pass.

You can also volunteer to gain experience in accounting. Taking a low-level position, such as a bookkeeper for a local business or small non-profit is an invaluable step along the way to higher-level accounting positions.

Networking with other accountants is also quite advantageous, as this could even result in a job opportunity.