8 Types of Accounting: Careers, Degrees, and Salaries

Accounting is a growing industry in the US, having generated over $141 billion in 2022, according to Statista's research [1]. Accountants themselves are in demand in various industries, from government and nonprofit organizations to manufacturing and service firms. According to Lightcast™, the number of accountants and auditors will increase by 2 percent in 2023 from last year. There were 1,390,915 in 2022 and 2023 will add 27,829 more [2]. 

As an accountant, you can specialize in different areas of accounting, each with its unique accounting career path, certification requirements, and average salary. If you enjoy working with numbers, you might find that one of the accounting fields below is right for you.

What is accounting?

Accounting is the process of recording, classifying, and summarizing financial transactions to provide useful information when making business decisions and complying with laws and regulations.

Different types of accounting exist because businesses have different financial needs. For example, public companies are required by law to use Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), while private companies may use any accounting method that suits their needs. 

Most accounting jobs will generally require at least a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field. Many employers also require accounting candidates to have professional certifications, such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation.

Read more: What Is a CPA and How Do I Become One?

Why is accounting important?

Accounting is a crucial process for organizations, as it helps them evaluate their financial health. More specifically, accounting enables organizations to:

• Measure their financial performance over a period of time

• Compare current and historical financial data

• Comply with tax laws and regulations

• Make financially sound business decisions

• Share financial data with stakeholders

Who sets accounting standards?

There are several regulatory bodies that determine the accounting standards that guide accounting practices. These include:

• Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) establishes financial accounting and reporting standards for public, private, and non-profit organizations that follow the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).

• Internal Revenue Service (IRS) helps taxpayers understand and meet tax obligations and enforces the laws.

• National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) helps accounting regulators, educators, and practitioners maintain the accounting profession's viability and ensures public protection.

• Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) oversees how public companies and SEC-registered brokers and dealers are regulated.

• Government Accounting Standards Board (GASB) establishes accounting and financial reporting standards for governments at the state and local level.

• Federal Accounting Standards Advisory Board (FASAB) improves federal financial reporting standards and guides users on what to do with federal financial information.

Read more: What Is a Staff Accountant? And How to Become One

Accounting fun fact

Did you know? Musicians Mick Jagger and Janet Jackson, comedian Eddie Izzard, and author John Grisham all studied accountancy before they went on to fame!

What are the types of accounting?

Several different types of accounting exist to meet the needs of various organizations. These include but are not limited to the following:

• Financial

• Management

• Tax, government

• Forensic

• Public accounting

• Accounting information systems

• Auditing

You can specialize in niche areas of accounting too. These include but are not limited to the following:

• Project accounting

• Cost accounting

• Corporate accounting

• Tax accounting

• Fiduciary accounting

• International accounting

• Fund accounting

• Political campaign accounting

• Social accounting

As the accounting field continues to evolve, new types of accounting are likely to emerge to meet the ever-changing business and organization’s needs. Explore different types of accounting jobs and salaries below.

Financial accounting

Financial accounting focuses on the financial statements prepared for external users, such as shareholders and creditors. The goal is to provide accurate and timely information that will help these individuals make informed decisions about the company.

Careers and salaries

One of the reasons you might choose to work in financial accounting is that it is a stable and secure career path with many opportunities for advancement. 

Financial accounting is a critical function within any organization, and it can be satisfying to know that you are helping managers to make sound financial decisions. Working in financial accounting can also be personally fulfilling, as it allows you to use your analytical and problem-solving skills to improve the financial health of businesses.

Examples of financial accounting job titles and US base salaries, as of April 2023:

• Chief financial officer: $178,356 [3]

• Financial accountant: $69,853 [4]

• Accounting officer: $51,941 [5]

Who's hiring?

Glassdoor's top-rated companies hiring chief financial officers, as of April 2023, include: Burkland Associates, South Carolina Federal Credit Union, The Conner Group, Thermacell, and New Western.

Management accounting

This type of accounting provides information to internal users, such as managers and executives. The goal is to help these individuals make decisions about how to run the company in a way that will maximize profitability.

Management accountants produce financial reports that help managers decide how to run their business. They use their accounting, finance, and economics skills to provide insights into capital, margin and constraint analysis, inventory levels, and costs. In addition, management accountants may also be involved in planning and budgeting, risk management, decision analysis, and performance measurement.

Careers, specializations, and salaries

Management accounting is a challenging and rewarding career that can offer opportunities for advancement and high earning potential. With education, certification, and experience, management accountants can become financial controllers or even chief financial officers (CFOs) of companies. As a management accountant, you may also choose to open your own accounting practice or become a consultant.

Examples of management accounting job titles and US base salaries, as of April 2023:

• Financial controller: $99,555 [6]

• Management accountant: $91,583 [7]

• Financial analyst: $69,196 [8]

Who's hiring?

Glassdoor's top rated companies hiring financial analysts, as of April 2023, include: Intuit, ServiceNow, Akamai, NVIDIA, and CHG Healthcare.

Certification requirements

Management accountants often pursue the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) designation. To gain CMA certification, you must pass an Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) exam. The CMA exam covers topics that include:

• Technology and analytics

• Financial reporting

• Planning and forecasting

• Cost management

• Decision analysis

• Risk management

• Professional ethics

Typically, management accountants have at least a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field. Many management accountants also have a master's degree in accounting, business, finance, or a related field. 

Read more: Becoming a Certified Management Accountant? Here's What You Need to Know

Tax accounting

This type of accounting focuses on the preparation of tax returns and tax payments. The goal is to ensure that the company pays the correct amount of taxes; does not overpay or underpay.

Tax accountants use their knowledge of tax laws and regulations to ensure that their clients comply with the law and minimize their tax liability. Tax accountants may also be involved in tax planning and advising clients on how to structure their affairs.

Read more: How to Become a Tax Accountant: Your Guide

Careers, specializations, and salaries

Among the reasons you may choose to work in tax accounting are the various tax laws. Every year, the IRS updates the tax code, which provides new challenges for tax accountants. You must stay up-to-date on the latest changes to prepare your clients' taxes properly. Additionally, tax accountants must be able to navigate the complex web of tax laws to find the best way to minimize their clients' taxes and provide tax advice. Seeing your clients save money on their taxes can also be gratifying.

Examples of tax accounting job titles and US base salaries:

• Tax accountant: $67,811 [9]

• Forensic accountant: $64,588 [10]

• Tax specialist: $53,995 [11]

Who's hiring?

Glassdoor's top rated companies hiring forensic accountants, as of April 2023, include: Studler Doyle, IT Veterans, Reichman & Associates, PC, Morones Analytics, and HSSK.

Certification requirements

The most common certification for tax accountants is the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation. Other popular certifications include the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and Certified Management Accountant (CMA). Each of these certifications requires the completion of specific education and experience requirements, as well as passing an examination.

Government accounting

Government accounting focuses on the financial reporting requirements of governmental entities such as cities, states, and federal agencies. The goal is to ensure that these entities are transparent in their financial dealings and use taxpayer money wisely. Government accountants provide financial services to government agencies and organizations. Some duties may include:

• Producing financial reports and audits

• Developing budgets

• Forecasting future revenue streams

• Preparing tax schedules

• Managing payroll accounts

• Analyzing expenditures to ensure compliance with legal requirements

Government accountants keep track of the money that the government spends. They ensure all spending is within the budget and that there is no fraud or waste. Government accountants may work for federal, state, or local governments.

Keep in mind

Government accounting is different from private-sector accounting. It can be more complicated and detailed than private-sector accounting because of the increased amount of regulations and requirements for how money is spent and accounted for in a public setting.

Careers, specializations, and salaries

Government accountants have the opportunity to help ensure public funds are used efficiently and effectively. You'll also help ensure compliance with laws and regulations and contribute to policy-making decisions. Government accounting may have various challenging and interesting work assignments. This type of accounting tends to offer excellent job security and benefits that are often very competitive.

Examples of government accounting job titles and US base salaries:

• Government accountant: $71,360 [12]

• Government auditor: $70,401 [13]

• Government financial manager: $110,835 [14]

• Government financial analyst: $83,102 [15]

Certification requirements

The specific certifications required for government accounting positions vary depending on the position level and the jurisdiction in which it is located. However, government accountants often complete the Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM) from the Association of Government Accountants or certifications from the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) board.

Accounting information systems 

Accountants use accounting information systems to collect, store, and analyze financial data. In this role, you will use these systems to track a company's financial transactions, generate reports, and help decide where to allocate resources.

Accounting information systems specialists design and maintain the computer systems used to store financial data. You will use your knowledge of accounting principles and information technology to help organizations automate their financial processes. Accounting information systems specialists may also be involved in the following:

• Capturing financial records

• Compiling financial documents

• Processing financial data

• Ensuring accountability and compliance

Demand for technical expertise

The demand for accountants with technical expertise is expected to rise because many companies are using more complex software programs, such as SAP ERP and Oracle Financials, instead of spreadsheets and manual processes.

Careers, specializations, and salaries

Accounting information systems roles are typically well-compensated, in high demand, and have a high degree of job security. These roles are often critical for a business to operate, and as such, companies are often unwilling to outsource or eliminate them. 

Accounting information systems specialists must have a strong understanding of accounting principles and computer science concepts. You may find employment with a variety of businesses or agencies. Professionals work in various industries, including:

• Manufacturing

• Retail trade

• Wholesale trade

• Financial activities

• Education services

• Health care and social assistance

• Government

Here are some accounting information systems jobs and US base salaries: 

• Accounting information systems analyst: $73,833 [16]

• Accounting data analyst: $64,419 [17]

• Accounting systems manager: $96,201 [18]

Who's hiring?

Glassdoor's top rated companies hiring accounting systems managers, as of April 2023, include: RLI, Match, and Thompson & Knight.

Degree and certification requirements

The first step to becoming an accounting information systems professional is to earn a bachelor's degree. While no specific majors will qualify you for this position, you should look for a program that includes courses in accounting, business, computer science, and information systems.

While a specific certification in accounting information systems does not yet exist, you can pursue various certifications that focus on different aspects of accounting and information systems. For example, the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) certification focuses on auditing and controlling information systems, while the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification focuses on overall accounting principles and practices. Software vendors, such as Microsoft and Oracle, also offer various certifications focusing on their respective accounting software products.

Forensic accounting

Forensic accountants investigate fraud and embezzlement cases. They use their skills in accounting and investigation to gather evidence and build cases against individuals or organizations accused of wrongdoing. Forensic accountants may also be involved in testifying in court as expert witnesses. 

Careers, specializations, job outlook, and salaries

The work of a forensic accountant is interesting and challenging, and it can make a difference in the world. Forensic accounting is a growing and high-demand field because of the rise in fraud and increasing financial regulations. 

Examples of forensic accounting job titles and US base salaries:

• Fraud examiner: $74,756 [19]

• Forensic accountant: $64,588 [20]

• Forensic auditor: $60,960 [21]

Who's hiring?

Glassdoor's top rated companies hiring fraud analysts, as of April 2023, include: Barclays, Expedia Group, Bank of America, American Express, and Capital One.

Read more: What Is Forensic Accounting? (Education, Careers, and More)

Certification requirements

You have a choice of several certifications in forensic auditing. One of the most respected is the Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) certification offered by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE). To earn the CFE designation, you must:

• Be a member of ACFE

• Meet minimum educational requirements based on a point system

• Have two years of professional fraud experience

• Pass an examination

• Agree to follow an ethics code

The CFE credential is recognized and respected by businesses, governments, and law enforcement agencies worldwide.

Public accounting

Public accounting is the field of accounting that deals with the financial statements and records of public, government, and non-profit organizations. Public accountants ensure that these organizations' financial statements comply with generally accepted accounting principles. They may also provide tax, advisory, and consulting services to their clients.

Careers, specializations, and salaries

A public accountant has the opportunity to work with a variety of clients and different types of businesses, which can be interesting and challenging.

You may also have various work tasks and responsibilities, including auditing, tax, or consulting projects. Public accounting firms typically offer opportunities for promotion and pay increases. With hard work and dedication, you can move up quickly in your career and increase your earnings. The demand for public accountants is set to increase as more companies seek assistance in complying with new accounting standards and regulations. 

Examples of public accounting job titles and US base salaries:

• Certified public accountant (CPA): $83,308 [22]

• Auditor: $52,697 [23]

• Tax advisor: $63,439 [24]

Who's hiring?

Glassdoor's top rated companies hiring tax advisors, as of April 2023, include: Intuit, TaxAct, H&CO, Timberline Tax Group, and The Fox Alliance.

Read more: Public Accounting: Careers, Skills, and How to Become a CPA

Degree and certification requirements

To become a public accountant, you'll typically need to become a CPA and have a four-year degree in accounting from an accredited college or university. In addition to passing the CPA exam, public accountants must also meet continuing education requirements set by state boards of accountancy.

Auditing

This type of accounting involves an independent review of a company's financial statements to ensure that they are accurate and in compliance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). Auditors may also perform operational audits to assess an organization's internal controls or compliance with standards such as Sarbanes-Oxley. 

Careers, specializations, and salaries

Auditing is a stable and secure profession. It is also a well-paid profession, with the potential to earn a high salary. This type of accounting career path can be challenging and interesting, which can provide you with a great deal of intellectual stimulation. 

Examples of auditing job titles and US base salaries:

• Internal auditor: $66,159 [25]

• External auditor: $63,367 [26]

Who's hiring?

Glassdoor's top rated companies hiring external auditors, as of April 2023, include: Deloitte, EY, JPMorgan Chase & Co, Smith & Nephew, and RSM.

Certification requirements

Some of the most popular auditing certifications include the Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), and Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) designation. Each of these certifications requires different levels of education and experience, so it’s important to research each one thoroughly before making a decision.

How to launch an accounting career

If you are ready to launch a career in accounting, follow these steps to streamline your process:

1. Reflect on your career goals. What do you want to achieve and why? What accounting role would you like to fill?

2. Investigate different types of accounting. Which areas of this field peak your interest and offer the career future you seek?

3. Get an accounting education. Look into accounting degree programs to find one that best suits your needs. Compare their costs, application processes, and reputations. In addition, obtain the certifications and/or licensures required by your specific area of accounting.

4. Gain accounting experience. Search job sites for entry-level jobs in accounting that may lead to your long-term career goals.

5. Refine your accounting resume. As you obtain credentials and gain experience in accounting, be sure to keep your resume updated. Also consider practicing your interviewing skills so that you can approach career advancement opportunities with confidence.

Read more: 9 Accounting Interview Questions + How To Prepare Answers

Learn accounting with Coursera

Taking online courses can be a great way to build job-ready skills in accounting. The Intuit Academy Bookkeeping Professional Certificate is a good place to build a foundation in the accounting field and qualify for entry-level jobs. If you're ready to further your career, consider Google's advanced professional certificates in Business Intelligence and Data Analytics, and build skills for handling large amounts of data.