Bookkeeping Degrees in Accounting

In modern times, individuals as well as businesses deal with financial transactions. As the saying goes, “money makes money things”. Interestingly, money was not always the medium of transactions. In ancient times, the barter system served as an effective model for executing transactions. The success of these transactions was primarily dependent on one crucial system viz., bookkeeping.

For purposes of clarity, “real” bookkeeping encompasses single and double entry transactions, although these may not always be employed at all times. As such, any recording of financial transactions whether formal methods are employed or not still comes under the purview of bookkeeping. Importantly, bookkeeping is different from accounting. The latter involves preparing reports like income statements and balance sheets. Usually, students study to perform both the roles of bookkeeper and accountant. There are several institutions, universities and professional schools that offer quality programs in bookkeeping and accounting. These programs span various degrees like Associate’s, Bachelor’s and Master’s and options are also available in diplomas and certifications. Diplomas and certifications usually take a few months whereas degrees take a couple of years. Normally, organizations prefer a Bachelor’s degree as minimum criteria for most openings. These programs are available through campus and online modes.

This profession is consistently in demand by individuals and businesses. Hence, the outlook for it is equally bright and robust. The Bureau of Labor Standards projects a growth of 12% through 2016. The salary ranges are also promising with median annual earnings at $30,560 in May 2006.

Programs are offered by numerous institutions with University of Phoenix and Strayer University leading the group with flexible quality education. DeVry University and Argosy University are close behind with an array of bookkeeping programs catered to suit varied requirements. Interestingly, Kaplan University focuses on programs that are customized and designed with the future of students in mind.