The steps you will have to take to become a part-time accountant will likely resemble those necessary for pursuing this job on a full-time basis. In most cases, you will have to graduate from high school and then enroll in college in preparation for this job. You can typically choose between earning an accounting certificate or degree when you want to become a part-time accountant, but a bachelor’s degree is usually the choice that provides the most job opportunities. In fact, if you want to work part time as a certified public accountant (CPA), you will likely have to earn a bachelor’s degree. You will typically also have to pass an examination and gain related experience if you want to become a CPA, but many accounting jobs are available without certification.
Typically, employers require applicants for part-time accountant jobs to have high school diplomas or general educational development (GED) certificates. This requirement is not only for landing a job, however. In many cases, it is also required for seeking the higher education necessary to become a part-time accountant. To pursue this type of job, you will usually need a degree or a certificate, and most educational institutions require a high school diploma or a GED for admission. While there aren’t any specific courses you’ll have to take in high school in preparation for an accounting career, classes that build communication skills, mathematical ability, and computer know-how may be helpful.
Depending on the jurisdiction in which you seek employment and the company to which you apply, you may need an accounting certificate or degree to become a part-time accountant. Certificate and associate’s degree programs in this field often last for about a year or two and commonly provide instruction in such topics as principles of accounting, cost and financial accounting, analysis of financial statements, finance, and business law. Bachelor’s degree programs last for about four years, provide more in-depth accounting and finance study, and cover more topics. While you might find some jobs with a certificate or associate’s degree, many employers prefer applicants with bachelor’s degrees.
Some employers might prefer applicants who are certified public accountants. If you will pursue jobs that have this as a requirement, you will likely have to earn a bachelor’s degree and then gain significant experience to qualify for certification. Though certification requirements do vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, some require a certification candidate to have a couple of years of experience. Additionally, you will usually have to pass an examination to become a CPA.
