Boston Business Management School

In fact, despite the bleak economic outlook the demand for accounting professionals rose 125% in the first eight months of 2008 according to Accounting Crossing, a US company specialising in placing accountants. The US Bureau of Labour Statistics projects an 18% growth from 2006 to 2016 in the job count for accountants and auditors combined, which is faster than the average for all occupations.

At all times firms need efficient financial management and record keeping. Beyond carrying out the fundamental tasks of the occupation—preparing, analysing and verifying financial documents in order to provide information to clients—many accountants also offer budget analysis, tax advice and planning, financial and investment planning, information technology consulting, and limited legal services.

While Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) are employed in all sectors of the economy, many generally have their own businesses or work for public accounting firms. CPAs help companies fulfill their legal requirements by conducting external audits of financial records. Experienced CPAs are also involved in forensic accounting which is a rapidly growing field.

Undoubtedly, the best job prospects will be for accountants and auditors who hold professionally accredited accounting qualifications. The two most recognised accounting qualifications in the world today are the ACCA and the CAT qualifications.