With so many accounting degrees to choose from, it’s easy to get confused. The advice for choosing the right accounting degree is the same for all students: take a core business or technology course, then double- or triple-check your math and science knowledge with a cheeky quiz. Many people will benefit from learning more about their field of study before deciding which degree is right for them. Here are some helpful tips on how to find the right degree for you.
Get to Know Your Curriculum
The first thing to know about choosing the right accounting degree is to get to know your specific coursework. What are your major subjects? Are you interested in accounting or business? Does your advisor encourage you to choose a more theory-based approach to your accounting courses? Are there any special requirements you have to take? Does your advisor recommend you take more advanced courses in accounting or statistics? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you should be fine.
A Good Core Course
The first thing to get to know about your core coursework is to find out what it is you’re interested in. Are you interested in accounting or money management? If so, you’ll likely pick up the “accounting” part of the course, which is a combination of accounting, finance, and business courses. Another easily confusing area is finance, which is only taught in accounting courses. If you’re unsure which of your core courses are right for you, ask your advisor or work with an accountant or tax partner.
Double-Check Your Skills Before You Choose
Not every accounting degree is created equally. Some will get you good grades in high-level courses, while others will test you on simple accounting skills. Some will cover topics you’re likely to learn by heart, while others will leave you with little to no knowledge. Some important skills to keep in mind before deciding on a particular accounting degree include knowing how to use common accounting software, such as accounting software for accounting, revenue and cash basis accounting, cash flow created by accounting, and basic financial reporting.
Look Into your Past Exams and Assignments
Think you have an extra-curricular interest in accounting? Perhaps you have a background in accounting or have taken an accounting-related course in your youth. If you answered yes to any of these questions, you should be fine. Before you choose an accounting degree, try reading up on your subject and seeing what extra-curricular activities or electives you might enjoy.
Ask Your Advisor
If you’re unsure what type of accounting degree is right for you, ask your advisor or work with an accountant or tax attorney. They can help you decide what your core coursework is and help you pick out the right degree for you. If you don’t have a particular interest in accounting or income tax, check out other fields of study. Even if you’re unsure about one accounting course, you can always take a look at the more advanced courses in that field.
Don’t Forget the Algebra or Trigonometry Test
We expect you to know how to correctly figure out rates, discounts, and commissions, right? Well, think about this: most of these numbers are not Ronald Coase’s ideas. They are the result of numerous experiments and hours in the shop. Like all forms of pure mathematics, Algebrator and Trigonometry test are not perfect. They make mistakes, but they also make sense. You should always remember this when you’re choosing an accounting or finance degree.
When it comes to choosing the right accounting or finance degree for you, remember one thing: practice, practice, practice! Don’t get afraid of a false alarm. Even if you think you have a specific skill or two you’re missing, hang in there and see what happens. If you do end up with a false alarm, just keep at it and take the necessary practice exams. Once you’ve done that, see what happens. Once you’ve found the right accounting or finance degree for you, make sure you read up on your subject and took the Algebra or Trigonometric Test.
