How to Get an Accounting Degree
- 1). Obtain a high school diploma or GED equivalent. This will be required for entry to a degree program in accounting. While in high school, students should take courses in mathematics, English, communications and business (if available). Some post-secondary institutions will also require applicants to submit scores from standardized college assessment tests, such as the ACT, SAT, COMPASS. You should also keep your GPA at 2.5 or above.
- 2). Decide what type of accounting degree you'd like to pursue. Accounting degrees are available both on the associate degree and bachelor's degree levels. Associate degrees take two years to complete, while bachelor degree programs take four years to complete. Although earning an associate degree takes less time, having a bachelor degree can increase your earning and advancement potential.
- 3). Apply to your chosen degree program. Entry prerequisites will vary; associate degree programs typically require a completed application and official high school transcripts. They might also require students to take a CPT (College Placement Test). In addition to an application and transcripts, bachelor degree programs might also require the submission of an admissions essay, a high GPA, high ACT or SAT scores and involvement in extracurricular activities.
- 4). Complete the curriculum. According to Education-Portal.com, students in associate degree programs should expect to take courses in payroll accounting, principals of accounting, computer applications, document processing and individual tax accounting. Students in bachelor degree programs can expect to take managerial accounting, financial accounting, business law, management, finance, marketing, intermediate accounting, federal taxation and cost management.
- 5). Keep good study habits. Take notes in each class and review your notes after class. Re-write them so they will be legible, if necessary. Study all tests so you know exactly where your deficiencies are and then work to improve them. Take advantage of your professors' office hours and ask for help on any concepts you don't understand. Take advantage of your school's tutoring services as well. Form study groups with like minded students and support each other.
- 6). Declare your intent to graduate during your final year.
