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Assistant manager/accounting job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected assistant manager/accounting job growth rate is 17% from 2018-2028.
About 123,100 new jobs for assistant managers/accounting are projected over the next decade.
Assistant manager/accounting salaries have increased 10% for assistant managers/accounting in the last 5 years.
There are over 98,416 assistant managers/accounting currently employed in the United States.
There are 65,947 active assistant manager/accounting job openings in the US.
The average assistant manager/accounting salary is $61,469.
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 98,416 | 0.03% |
| 2020 | 94,556 | 0.03% |
| 2019 | 95,291 | 0.03% |
| 2018 | 90,757 | 0.03% |
| 2017 | 86,875 | 0.03% |
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $61,469 | $29.55 | +3.3% |
| 2025 | $59,504 | $28.61 | +1.5% |
| 2024 | $58,634 | $28.19 | +2.3% |
| 2023 | $57,301 | $27.55 | +2.7% |
| 2022 | $55,775 | $26.81 | +3.2% |
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 261 | 38% |
| 2 | Delaware | 961,939 | 137 | 14% |
| 3 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 847 | 12% |
| 4 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 111 | 11% |
| 5 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 1,263 | 10% |
| 6 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 571 | 10% |
| 7 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 559 | 10% |
| 8 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 128 | 10% |
| 9 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 762 | 9% |
| 10 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 647 | 9% |
| 11 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 566 | 9% |
| 12 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 381 | 9% |
| 13 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 291 | 9% |
| 14 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 280 | 9% |
| 15 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 174 | 9% |
| 16 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 99 | 9% |
| 17 | California | 39,536,653 | 3,106 | 8% |
| 18 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 293 | 8% |
| 19 | Alaska | 739,795 | 58 | 8% |
| 20 | Vermont | 623,657 | 48 | 8% |
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tucker | 2 | 7% | $52,323 |
| 2 | Burlingame | 1 | 3% | $74,951 |
| 3 | Duluth | 1 | 3% | $52,347 |
| 4 | Bethesda | 1 | 2% | $75,715 |
| 5 | Springdale | 1 | 1% | $48,426 |
| 6 | Torrance | 1 | 1% | $61,613 |
| 7 | Denver | 1 | 0% | $60,574 |
Washington and Lee University
Henderson State University
Skyline College

Indiana University Northwest

Misericordia University

University of Arkansas
The University of Scranton

University of Maine Orono

Florida Atlantic University

Case Western Reserve University
Austin Peay State University
DePaul University

California State University San Marcos
Loyola University Maryland

Widener University

University of Maine at Augusta
South College

Rhode Island College
Washington and Lee University
Accounting And Related Services
Colin Reid: Communication and critical thinking have always been important in accounting, but I believe the importance of these skills will increase. Professionals in accounting spend more time working in groups and with other people than many realize. Currently AI can assist with technical tasks and other repetitive work. I believe there will always be a role for accountants in terms of building relationships with clients, team members, and others with whom they work. Many problems that professionals face will involve multifaceted decisions that can be informed by data analysis but often will still need to be communicated clearly through a relationship built on trust. I believe that balancing a technical accounting education with the traditional liberal arts (e.g. humanities and social sciences) is critically important to help develop these critical thinking and communication skills.
James Lawson: The ability to leverage AI (artificial intelligence). There is a lot of discussion regarding the impact of AI on society, but AI is another tool that accountants can use to complete their tasks and add value to their client relationships.
Lisa Bell MBA, CPA: Continuously improving on existing skills and learning new skills will set you apart from your counterparts. I used to tell students to pick an area and become a master. Now I tell them to seek certifications in different areas so they can be more well-rounded. I advise them to figure out the knowledge gaps in their organization. Then fill that gap for the organization and ask to be compensated for bringing value
Abbie Daly PhD, CPA: Accounting is often referred to as the "language of business" because accountants communicate financial information. So communication is an integral part of an accountant's day. For example, auditors and tax preparers meet with their clients to understand their financial information, and accountants at organizations prepare and communicate financial information to guide strategic decisions. To facilitate these communications, accountants analyze and interpret many data points. For example, in auditing the revenue recognized by a company, an auditor would examine the underlying transactions, contracts, and supporting documentation.
Skyline College
Accounting And Related Services
Tony Viertel: Stability and demand: Accounting is a fundamental function for businesses across
industries. There will always be a demand for skilled accountants to manage financial
records, ensure regulatory compliance, and provide strategic financial advice.
Diverse career opportunities: Accountants can work in various sectors such as public
accounting, corporate accounting, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and
academia. This diversity allows for flexibility and the opportunity to explore different
career paths.
Professional growth: The accounting profession offers numerous opportunities for
advancement, including obtaining certifications such as Certified Public Accountant
(CPA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA).
These certifications can open doors to higher-paying positions and increased
responsibilities.
ď‚· Intellectual Challenge: Accounting involves problem-solving, analysis, and interpretation
of financial data. It requires critical thinking skills and attention to detail.

Indiana University Northwest
Accounting Department
Jaclyn Barkow: In addition to the accounting skills necessary to perform the position's duties, communication, problem-solving, ability to ask questions, and adaptability are also excellent skills to hold. While the skills learned in each accounting course are vital to success, these additional skills will help to set young accountants apart from others who have limited skills in these areas.
Effective communication is so important in the accounting industry. Young accountants must be able to speak and write clearly to colleagues, superiors, and clients. Communication is not just being able to hold a conversation. Accountants must be able to discuss information in a manner that is clear and concise. Part of communication is also being able to ask the right questions and learn from the responses received. Young accountants must ask questions to guide the learning process. Part of asking questions is to learn from the process and avoid asking the same question repeatedly.
Accountants must be able to critically evaluate information and problem solve as necessary. Textbook assignments tend to be very clear on what items are needed or not needed, but such is not always the scenario in the workplace. Young accountants must be confident in their understanding of accounting concepts and critically evaluate problems presented on a case-by-case basis.

Misericordia University
Business Department
Charles Makar: Communications skills (oral and written).

University of Arkansas
Accounting Department
Kris Allee Ph.D.: Generally, prior experience working with US GAAP for financial reporting purposes, knowledge of regulatory standards, and the ability to reconcile accounts are necessary. Most successful candidates would likely be CPAs and have several years of work experience, sufficient general business knowledge, and have some degree of software proficiency. Abilities such as data analysis and critical thinking would be key as well. Some employers prefer accounting manager candidates who hold a master's degree to signify the level of skills and knowledge they have acquired.
Kris Allee Ph.D.: Given an accounting manager assumes a leadership position at the firm, the ability to lead effectively, communicate well, and organize and manage projects would be the most important soft skills necessary.
Kris Allee Ph.D.: Knowledge of US GAAP and applicable regulatory standards. Proficiency in word processing and spreadsheet applications as well as specialized accounting software as needed.
Kris Allee Ph.D.: Certainly, passing the CPA exam is a must, as it is considered a necessary condition for advancement. Passing the exam also helps certify the minimum level of skills the person may possess. Financial analysis skills are also highly valued and hard to find in the average staff accountant. These skills traditionally would include computing, quantitative analysis, and understanding forecasting techniques and limitations. Finally, communication skills and the ability to effectively manage expectations and projects are what make an accountant indispensable and valuable to a firm.
The University of Scranton
Accounting Department
Dr. Douglas Boyle: Accounting is a very technical profession, so any credential that shows you have an advanced level of knowledge makes a candidate stand out. Accountants have many opportunities to pursue credentials. A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is the only accounting credential that is a license from the state. If you hold a CPA, the AICPA offers six specialty credentials to consider pursuing, including Certified Information Technology Professional (CITP), Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA), Accredited in Business Valuation (ABV), Certified in Financial Forensics (CFF), Personal Financial Specialist (PFS), and Certified in Entity and Intangible Valuations (CEIV). Three other organizations to consider that do not require a CPA to pursue are the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA), and the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE). The IMA offers two credentials, the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) and Certified in Strategy and Competitive Analysis (CSCA). The IIA offers six credentialling opportunities, the Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), Certification in Risk Management Assurance (CRMA), Qualification in Internal Audit Leadership (QIAL), Certified Process Safety Auditor (CPSA), and Certified Professional Environmental Auditor (CPEA). Last, the ACFE offers the Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE). These opportunities enable accountants to specialize in several areas and provide opportunities to stand out. Our research shows that in addition to technical skills, soft skills are very important as you move to higher levels of a firm or organization.
Dr. Douglas Boyle: Our research shows that achieving a high level of emotional intelligence is viewed as most important by senior accounting professionals. Emotional intelligence is made up of self-awareness that includes emotional awareness and self-confidence. Self-management includes self-control, trustworthiness, conscientiousness, adaptability, and innovation. Social awareness includes empathy and organizational awareness. Relationship management includes influence, conflict management, teamwork, leadership, and communication. While it is important to work on all these skills, the three that are deemed most critical for accounting professionals are trustworthiness, conscientiousness, teamwork, and communication.
Dr. Douglas Boyle: While it is important to be technically competent in all areas of accounting, you add the most value by being an expert in a few areas. That is why you may consider pursuing additional credentials (as shown above) in areas of interest to you. This enables you to master the technical skills and demonstrate such skills on your resume.

University of Maine Orono
Maine Business School
Dr. Henri Akono Ph.D.: -Both hard and soft skills are important for an accountant's success and should be included in accountants' resumes. To the extent possible, candidates should tailor their skills (on the resume) to the type of job they seek.
-Hard accounting skills encompass:
-Financial Accounting and Reporting
-Understanding of accounting rules and regulations (GAAP)
-Recording of journal entries & compilation of financial reports
-Ratio analysis or Financial statement analysis (for master level candidates)
-Some basic Financial modeling
-Controllership
-Budgeting
-Cost management
-Performance metrics
-Some financial reporting
-Business strategy and processes
-Internal controls
-Cost analytics (regressions, visualizations, etc.)
-Tax
-Tax reporting
-Tax compliance (federal vs. individual or both)
-Audit
-Auditing standards (PCAOB/AICPA)
-Audit risk assessment
-Audit procedures planning and substantive
-Analytical procedures
-Internal controls
-Materiality
-Audit Analytics (Alteryx, Tableau, PowerBi, etc.)
-Analytics for accounting/audit/tax
-Usage of software such as Excel to complete accounting-related tasks
-Use of visualization tools such as Tableau to complete accounting-related tasks
-Certifications
-CPA or intent to complete this
-CMA or intent to complete this
-Excel at least basic
Dr. Henri Akono Ph.D.: -In today's environment, with greater usage of data big and small by companies, accountants are expected to have a better understanding of accounting analytics and a greater ability to analyze and identify patterns in data. Therefore, accounting analytics is a very important skill for accountants today.
-Just knowing excel is not enough. Being able to use software like excel QuickBooks for accounting/controllership/audit/tax-related decisions is a plus.
-In addition, being able to use visualization software like Tableau or Power BI is also a plus.
-Some type of analytics certification (Excel, general analytics, etc.) is a plus.
-However, this does not substitute for accounting-related knowledge and understanding.

Dr. George Young: Skills pertaining to software, especially software used to analyze data for reasonableness, classification non-conformity, other errors, and fraud, will always be eye-catching to employers. Students should also not overlook participation in activities that represent a contribution to the greater good. Activities like Habitat for Humanity and the local Helping Hands organizations not only convey the willingness to benefit others but also conveys the skill of getting along with others while working on a common goal.
Dr. George Young: The soft skills of communicating orally and in writing will always be more important. These skills, which develop over time, enable one to minimize misunderstandings and convey messages with sufficient clarity that they contribute to the mission of the employer. Related to communication is the skill of interacting with others; exercise of this skill allows the creation and maintenance of a more respectful and inclusive environment. Every student should remember this: The practice of honing the skill of treating others with fairness and respect not only increases the likelihood that the employer's firm succeeds, but it also increases the likelihood that the student will continue to experience success in life.
Dr. George Young: Besides becoming fluent in accounting, which is the language of business, students should take every opportunity to learn more about spreadsheet software such as Excel and increase their skills in using Tableau. These types of software enable accountants to analyze, summarize, and communicate their results in an understandable manner.

Case Western Reserve University
Accountancy Department
Thomas King: Evidence that someone is smart is a fast learner and works well with others.
Thomas King: The ability to develop working relationships with a wide range of colleagues who have diverse skills.
Thomas King: The ability to extract information from unfamiliar data sets and then explain conclusions reached in a clear, persuasive manner.
Thomas King: The ability to lead others to bring about intended change.
Austin Peay State University
College of Business
Dr. Jennifer Thayer: Several skills help applicants stand out when submitting their resumes, which goes beyond just the normal "accounting knowledge." Individuals should include any type of practical application via internships, volunteer work, or work experience. When including these experiences, be sure to highlight the type of work that was completed, such as preparing tax returns, analyzing transactions for audits, preparing financial reports, etc. In addition, including skills such as proficiency or certifications in specific software is also helpful. For example, Microsoft Excel or QuickBooks knowledge/certifications. Also, including any experience with data analytics and using programs such as Power BI or Tableau would be very beneficial.
Dr. Jennifer Thayer: From speaking with employers in the industry, the number one soft skill seems to be written and spoken communication. Many current students need to hone their written communication skills to avoid "text speak" when communicating with potential employers and/or clients. Other important soft skills include problem-solving, collaboration, adaptability, and willingness to deal with failure and/or criticism. Especially in the world of COVID and ever-changing work environments, the importance of adaptability and problem-solving have only been highlighted. Since most work environments involve people working in teams, effectively collaborating with others and accepting criticism are vital skills.
Delvin Grant: Yes. I strongly believe coronavirus will have a lasting impact on new graduates. A increasing paradigm shift is taking place as we speak, as some IT-related jobs can be done remotely. I expect the shift to continue until a steady state condition is achieved, when companies feel they have the right mix of remote and face-to-face employment. Some companies may resist the trend, valuing face-to-face over remote working. Face-to-face satisfies a human need to socialize and, in some cultures, much business is done by face-to-face. There is evidence of a paradigm shift as many IT employees work remotely, due to the pandemic. Some companies have realized the shift is here to stay and others take a wait and see attitude. It is hard not to recognize the shift as there are cost saving from office rent, office space, heating, cooling, computing cost, travel costs, etc. The impact will vary by profession. IT and other professions are a natural fit for remote working while others are not. For example, a chemist working in a lab environment cannot work from home as his lab is the only place to mix and experiment with chemicals and chemistry.
Delvin Grant: To answer this question, I am assuming a COVID-19 environment. We know most jobs can be carried out in a face-to-face mode, but if this is not possible in a COVID environment, then it is difficult to consider those jobs as good jobs. Therefore, a good job is one that can be easily carried out in a COVID environment so MIS, IT, Computer Science, and similar professions that fit a remote working mode are excellent jobs.
Delvin Grant: Salaries of MIS and IT professionals have changed. About 10 years ago the average entry level salary of MIS students was in the mid 50's but that has steadily increased to the low to mid 60's. I expect this trend to continue as more business processes are automated and the demand for IT workers increases.

Jolynn Zhou Ph.D.: Under the current climate, many accounting jobs are becoming remote. This trend is particularly noticeable among the larger accounting firms, while smaller firms, due to lack of resources and simpler structures, are more likely to work in a traditional office environment. Going forward, some of these changes will stay. Post pandemic, remote working will not be as prevalent as now, but will become somewhat common and acceptable.
Recruiting is almost 100 percent remote now. This has both pros and cons to the students. With the remote setting, a potential job candidate may get opportunities and face time they would not have gotten in a traditional job fair. But the cons are obvious as well. Students would have to be more proactive and make a more concerted effort to get out of their comfort zone.
Jolynn Zhou Ph.D.: The answer to this question really is highly subjective. Different students may give you different answers. Typically younger, fresh-out-of-college students prefer public accounting because they get to learn a lot in a relatively short period of time and it is good for career advancement. Students with families may prefer private accounting because of the work-life balance and the predictable work hours. Government jobs can be attractive too because of the benefits. Ultimately it is up to the student to determine what type of job is best for themselves.
Jolynn Zhou Ph.D.: This may be surprising to some business school students, but Excel skill is very important and highly valued by employers. In recent years, data analytics is becoming more and more important. Many business schools and accounting programs are beginning of offer this course.
Loyola University Maryland
Accounting Department
Dr. JP Krahel Ph.D.: Given that working from home is becoming a more acceptable thing, I think you'll find geographically broader competition for what were previously local jobs. "Oh, you live in Denver? Well, we have a need for your skill set in Tampa. Do you mind working full-time from home?"
The pandemic will also likely accelerate pre-existing pushes toward automation and outsourcing. This may mean fewer jobs, but jobs that require higher-level thinking. Analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills will be more valued.
A less exciting trend that I've observed is higher turnover. One downside to the work-from-home scenario is a much lower affinity for the workplace, and a diminished sense of employer-employee connection You're also losing the soft skills that come with daily interaction, something that can't be properly replicated over a computer screen.
Dr. JP Krahel Ph.D.: First, Excel. It's the most basic, essential tool for the accounting professional. If you can come in on Day 1 knowing essential keyboard shortcuts, proper formula and reference use, and how to format a spreadsheet properly, you'll have an immediate advantage over your peers.
Second, believe it or not, is writing. People think that accounting is all about numbers, but really, it's less about the math (which Excel does for you) and more about being able to explain the deeper meaning behind the results. Can you explain complex depreciation methods to an audit client? Give bad news to a tax client in an understandable way? These are big deals.
Third is data analytics. Given the immense volume of data now available to firms, someone who can extract, clean, and present that data using modern software tools will have an edge. It's really another form of communication, and one that early-career accounting professionals would do well to familiarize themselves with before entering the workforce.
Dr. JP Krahel Ph.D.: Entry-level auditor or tax accountant at a public accounting firm. Pandemic or no pandemic, these are the jobs that give you a cross-sectional, top-to-bottom view of an entire company, coworkers who know the ropes and are willing to teach you on the job, and the kind of experience that future employers value dearly. There's a reason so many of my own students launch their careers at public accounting firms, regardless of where they end up years later.

Widener University
Department Head of Accounting, Economics & Finance
Joseph Hargadon Ph.D.: Clearly one of the biggest trends that I expect to continue is working remotely---it is now in vogue. After almost a year operating in a pandemic environment, employers are recognizing that remote work does not negatively affect the productivity and effectiveness of their employees.
Another major trend I expect to see is more competition for accounting positions as the pool of potential candidates will be larger.
Employers are not as constrained by geographic limitations as they might have been during pre-pandemic times.
They can interview candidates in a cost effective manner from anywhere in the world and candidates need not be physically on site to carry out their work responsibilities.
Joseph Hargadon Ph.D.: A gap year is not an uncommon situation in this pandemic environment given the number of accounting positions is fewer and the competition for those jobs is fiercer.
Graduates taking a gap year need to make judicious use of that time. Acquiring new skills in such areas as data analytics and information technology, earning professional certifications, and volunteering with not-for profits will demonstrate to an employer that they have continued to learn and grow during this time. Since accounting professionals (i.e., CPAs) are required by law to meet continuing education requirements to maintain their license, it is imperative that gap year graduates show employers that they are staying current and advancing their competencies and skills in business.
Also, graduates taking a gap year must learn and prepare for difficult questions when they eventually start their virtual interviewing. Interviewing in a remote world is somewhat different than interviewing in person.
Rehearsing and doing mock virtual interviews is more important than ever today.
Joseph Hargadon Ph.D.: Even during pre-pandemic times, I provide the following recommendations to my accounting graduates as they begin their careers. I expect that they all will work hard, be motivated and follow directions, but I always add the following:
-Be a team player.
Their ability to work well with others, even in a remote culture, will continue to be valuable. In particular, they will need to enhance their ability to collaborate in a digital environment
-Continue to be an effective time manager. Being able to prioritize and multi-task in an efficient manner will lead to a better work-life balance.
-Be adaptable and willing to change as needed. As we know change is the one constant in today's post-digital workplace.
-Have a great attitude 100% of the time.
Volunteer for additional assignments, admit your mistakes, commend your colleagues and don't be a "whiner".
Note: If you number our alphabet from 1 to 16 (A = 1, B = 2, Z= 26, etc.), you will find that the numbers that correspond to the letters in the word "ATTITUDE" add up exactly to 100%.
A T T I T U D E
1
+ 20 +
20 + 9
+ 20 +
21 + 4
+ 5 = 100%

Thomas Giordano: More graduating students are working from home so that will take getting used to.
Thomas Giordano: Newly graduating accounting students or gap year students should work on developing their Data Science and accounting software proficiencies. That's the future, which is happening right now.
D. Pace Porter: I believe the need for accounting and financial expertise will even be greater as a result of the pandemic. First, the increased technical accounting and reporting requirements related to risks disclosures, impairment analysis and so forth, and the tax and compliance requirements as a result of the various Coronavirus relief and stimulus legislation, will prompt an increase in demand whether through in-house personnel or through CPA firms. Trends toward more technologically advanced graduates began before the pandemic but will accelerate as a result of it. More importantly, however, is the need for improving economic and operational efficiencies, and therefore cash flow, for businesses to continue as a going concern throughout this pandemic and position themselves for growth once things return to some sort of normal. Accounting and financial expertise has an increasingly important role to play here.
D. Pace Porter: I am not a big fan of an accounting graduate, or any graduate for that matter, taking a gap year, but I understand if one must due to family or other legitimate reasons. You are entering a profession, not just seeking a job, so enter that profession. The accounting profession, including accounting, audit and tax disciplines, constantly changes. Therefore, it would be critical to stay on top of those technical changes in a gap year. Studies have clearly demonstrated that it is best to take the CPA exam as soon after graduation or completion of sufficient academic hours as possible. You can stay current through readings of professional journals and other resources. Other skills to enhance would include the "soft skills" of communication, critical thinking and analysis, and creativity.
D. Pace Porter: The accounting profession is made up of several disciplines and is inherent in all businesses from small and medium size to large, publicly traded global companies. You should have a solid idea of where you want to begin. Private industry accounting, which industry, general accounting or tax; or public accounting with a CPA firm and audit, tax or advisory services within that type organization? These are some of the questions that you must answer for yourself, as well as for the potential interviewer. You should have the information necessary to help you answer those after completing your degree and taking all of the required accounting courses. I would also advise you to focus on general skills such as written and oral communication, technology (Excel and beyond), attention to detail, time management and above all, professional integrity.

Sean Cote: The biggest trends that we will see because of the pandemic is more remote jobs in the future. I know several professionals that are not going back to an office. They will continue to work from remote locations even once COVID-19 is over.
This trend continues to stress that college graduates be able to be flexible and willing to learn new technology. This trend also stresses that maybe you can have more options when it comes to one of your biggest expenses when you finish your college career... rent. You may now be able to live in lower cost of living areas and still move towards your career goals.
Sean Cote: Enjoy every day.
Learn from everything you do in your job. Especially when you make mistakes. I did a triathlon two years ago. It took a ton of training for me to be ready for this race. Was I good at anything that was part of the triathlon? Nope, in fact, I HATE running and biking. But I knew that if I put my mind to it, and worked hard, I could finish this race... and I did! The same thing applies to your career. Work hard and put your mind to it and you can reach your long-term career goals. Good luck, graduates!
Sean Cote: If a student can't find a job I would recommend continuing the journey toward their long-term goals.
I graduated in the top 10% of my accounting class and couldn't get a job in a CPA firm. My long-term goals were to become a CPA. As my GAP year, I immediately started studying for the CPA exam and took out a loan and registered for a Master's degree program. During my gap year time I was offered a full-time job at a CPA firm but now I was well on my way to becoming a CPA.
Always be aware of what your long-term goals are. When a stumbling block gets in the way, find a way around it so that you are still moving towards that goal.
Don't be afraid to take a lower-paying job if it helps you gain experience towards those long-term professional goals.