College of Business & Management

Accounting Careers Overview

Even in the current economy, our Accounting graduates are in high demand. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Labor, employment for accountants and auditors is expected to grow 18% between 2006 and 2016—faster than any other occupation1. Contrary to the classic "number cruncher" stereotype, today's accountants work in some of the business world's most vibrant environments, from advertising agencies to entertainment firms to restaurant chains. In addition, the role of an accountant is broadening and the services they now offer include such things as budget analysis, financial and investment planning, and information technology consulting.

Accounting Roles

When you earn your bachelor's degree in Business Administration from DeVry University with a major in Accounting, you'll be equipped to help organizations and individuals keep accurate financial records, complete required tax forms, and pay taxes on time. In addition to designing and implementing advanced accounting systems for specific needs, some traditional accounting careers include:

  • Public accountant: Handling accounting, auditing, tax reporting, and consulting for corporations, not-for-profit organizations, governments, and individuals.
  • Corporate accountant: Recording and analyzing companies' financial information.
  • Government accountant: Auditing, investigating, and providing general accounting services.

Industries

Accounting careers are found in nearly every industry, including:

  • Public accounting corporations
  • Multinational companies
  • Small businesses
  • Nonprofit organizations
  • Government agencies

Career Options

DeVry University graduates in Business Administration with a major in Accounting will be prepared for careers in areas such as:

  • Financial accounting, including CPA firm positions2
  • Financial services industry planning and analysis
  • Financial consulting
  • Federal and state taxation
  • Internal auditing

For related career paths, see all degree programs offered by the College of Business & Management.

The DeVry University Career Advantage

Whether you are looking to attend a traditional campus or an online university, DeVry University is the place where you can gain the skills, credentials, and respect you need to succeed the accounting world. The proof is in the numbers. For October '07, February '08, and June '08 classes in all DeVry programs and locations combined, 92% of DeVry graduates in the active job market held positions in their chosen field within 6 months of graduation and earned an average entry-level salary of $45,000.

1 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-09 Edition, Accountants and Auditors, http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos001.htm.
2 Students seeking professional certification must contact their state Board of Accountancy or the appropriate organization for their field of interest to seek professional licensing exam requirements