How to Become an Accountant

Even as AI rapidly shapes the world, one thing hasn’t changed: companies make money, and they need skilled professionals to manage it. 

That’s why accountants are as indispensable today as they’ve ever been, and why the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects steady, continuing demand for accounting professionals. 

For anyone looking for a career that’s stable and full of real possibility, accounting is worth a serious look. And getting started is easier than you probably think.¹

Most entry level accounting roles require a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field. If you’re interested in pursuing Certified Public Accountant (CPA) licensure in California, you must also complete additional state mandated coursework to meet the educational requirements established by the California Board of Accountancy.² 

UC Irvine Division of Continuing Education's (DCE) Applied Accounting certificate program is designed to make both paths achievable. It helps learners build a strong foundation in accounting principles and develop the skills needed for general accounting roles. The program serves full time and part time students as well as working professionals, including those whose undergraduate degree is outside of accounting or finance. It also offers coursework that supports progress toward meeting California’s educational requirements for CPA licensure.

One of the best things about accounting? The sheer range of fields it opens. Accountants are in demand across a wide range of industries, including entertainment and media, real estate and government, nonprofits and even law—far beyond the traditional tax or audit track.³ 

Have a background in tech? You might find a natural home in data analytics accounting, a growing area of need as organizations rely more on financial data to drive decisions.⁴  Accountants are also needed in environmental organizations and nonprofits. Essentially, wherever your interests lead, there’s likely a role for a skilled accounting professional.

CPA certification can benefit any accounting career by potentially providing more responsibility, security, and compensation. CPAs also typically earn +10% to +15% more than general accountants.⁵

For those pursuing the credential, DCE offers a companion CPA Exam Review program through Becker Professional Education, a test-prep leader for more than 60 years. 

The DCE Applied Accounting certificate program is taught by instructors who bring real-world experience into the classroom. Learners build practical, hands-on skills alongside a deep grounding in the standards and principles required to analyze, verify, and interpret complex financial documents, the kind of knowledge that translates directly into the workplace.

Accounting doesn’t stand still. CPA requirements in California are always evolving, making continuing education a career-long commitment.⁶ For both CPAs and general accountants, staying current in AI technology, data analytics, and information systems is essential. Many in the industry consider keeping pace with technology to be the biggest risk to accounting professionals.⁷ 

Current DCE learners and alums have access to an array of career resources through the Career Advancement Network (CAN), including micro-internships and career counseling. When it's time to start your job search, the 12Twenty Job Board lists a wide range of open positions. Jobscan helps optimize your resume by highlighting the experience and skills most relevant to your target role, and Big Interview offers realistic practice interviews, so you can walk in feeling prepared, not panicked.

Career coaching is also available on a drop-in basis, and Career Workshops cover practical topics like how to rock your next interview or create a stand-out resume.

Accounting is a stable, versatile career with opportunity across nearly every industry. DCE's Applied Accounting certificate program gives you the practical skills, expert instruction, and career support you need to launch or advance in the field, with a clear path toward CPA licensure if that’s your goal. Whether you’re just starting out or making a career change, the next step is closer than you think.

Ready to see what an accounting career could look like for you? A DCE Enrollment Coach can answer your questions and help you build a personalized academic plan. Book an appointment or learn more about Applied Accounting.