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How long does it take to be accountant

How long does it take to be accountant?

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Attila’s Answer

Hi Monterio,

The time it takes to become an accountant can vary depending on the country and the type of certification or degree required.

In the United States, becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) typically requires a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field, completing 150 semester hours of education, passing the CPA exam, and meeting any additional state-specific requirements. This process usually takes around 5 years, including the time it takes to earn a bachelor's degree and complete the required coursework.

However, there are other paths to becoming an accountant, such as obtaining a master's degree in accounting or a related field, or becoming a Certified Management Accountant (CMA) or a Certified Internal Auditor (CIA). These paths may have different educational and experience requirements, which can affect the overall time it takes to become an accountant.

Overall, the time it takes to become an accountant can range from 2-5 years, depending on the certification or degree required and the individual's educational background and experience.
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Sarah’s Answer

Hi Monterio, generally it takes 4 years to complete the bachelor's program needed to become an accountant. In addition to earning an accounting degree, you will need to pass the CPA exam in your state, which can take months to prepare for.
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Samantha’s Answer

Hi Monterio,

If you would like to practice accounting, you’ll likely want to become a certified public accountant (CPA). Depending upon the state you live in and the state you anticipate you will want to work in after you graduate, you may need a master’s degree to meet the required number of credit hours to become a CPA. This could mean you’ll need to go to school for up to 5 years (4 years of undergraduate, and 1 year for a master’s degree in accounting). However, there are also many schools that offer accelerated programs that may let you earn both a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in 4 years. Additionally, if you take any AP classes or other college credit earning classes in high school, you may be able to apply these credits to your undergraduate degree, which may allow you to graduate earlier than expected. If it’s possible for you, I would definitely look into trying to get both your bachelor’s and master’s degrees in 4 years. It will save you time and money and will position you well to take the CPA exams. Best of luck!
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Sabina’s Answer

Everyone's experience into the accounting is different. If you get into college with an accounting degree and remain on track with the proposed plan your college advisor has provided you, along with attending recruiting events and applying for internships, then you should be able to become an accountant by the end of your college career. Additionally, once you graduate, I would recommend taking some time to study and take the CPA exam as there are sometimes firms that offer incentives for earning your CPA before officially starting.
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Michael’s Answer

Hi Monterio,

A Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting will take 4 years to complete at a college or university. Upon completion, one has earned the designation of a Public Accountant (PA). From a public accounting firm, a PA will cover services such as audits, consultations and taxes.

After gaining years of accounting experience, the career path of a PA will lead one to pursue the CPA designation. CPA means Certified Public Accountant. In order to achieve this designation, one has to successfully pass the CPA exam as administered by the American Institute of Certified Public Accounts (AICPA). The CPA exam consists of four parts:

- Auditing and Attestation (AUD)
- Business Environment and Concepts (BEC)
- Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
- Regulation (REG)

Additional testing will be dependent upon the State where the CPA will be practicing. Per year, there will be a minimum of 40 hours of professional training for the maintenance of the CPA license. CPAs usually handle financial matters for clients; preparing and filing tax documents and creating detailed financial analysis reports.

According to U.S. News & World Report, here is a list of the top Accounting Programs in the United States:

https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/business-accounting

- University of Texas at Austin
- University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign)
- Brigham Young University (Provo)
- Indiana University (Bloomington)
- University of Michigan (Ann Arbor)
- University of Notre Dame
- University of Pennsylvania
- New York University
- University of Southern California
- University of Florida

When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:

- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral

Best wishes for your education and future career as an Accountant!
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Ching’s Answer

Don't quote me on this. But you are an accountant when your job requires it. Of course, if your employer requires you do have any specific certificate or title, that is separate.
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Akinwumi M’s Answer

The length of time it takes to become an accountant can vary depending on the specific route and educational requirements you choose. Here are some common paths to becoming an accountant and their approximate timeframes:

Bachelor's Degree in Accounting: This is typically a four-year program that provides students with a strong foundation in accounting principles, business, and finance.

Master's Degree in Accounting: Some students choose to pursue a Master's degree in Accounting, which typically takes an additional one to two years beyond a Bachelor's degree.

Certified Public Accountant (CPA): To become a CPA, you must first earn a Bachelor's degree in Accounting, complete additional coursework in accounting and business, and pass the CPA exam. The requirements to sit for the CPA exam vary by state, but typically require 150 credit hours of education. Depending on the program, this can take an additional one to two years beyond a Bachelor's degree.

Overall, the time it takes to become an accountant can range from four to six years or more, depending on your chosen educational path and any additional certification requirements you may pursue.
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Matilde’s Answer

To become an accountant you require a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance or related field, It takes typically four years of study to earn a degree in accounting.
However, there are alternative routes that would allow you to complete your degree even faster. Some universities offer a competency-based curriculum that allows students to move on from a course once they demonstrate mastery by passing assessments.
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Daphne’s Answer

You've received some great advice already. In addition to a bachelor's degree in accounting and seeking your CPA, you can also seek internships both while in high school and college. Non-profit organizations (charities, churches, etc.) are always in need of assistance so you can volunteer your services, the experience will be invaluable. These opportunities will help you get an inside view of the career field so you can have a better understanding of the day to day. You may learn more about what you like and/or don't prefer which will inform your direction of study in college. My best to you.
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