Quick Links: Department Happenings Chair's Welcome BAcc Requirements Faculty and Staff Internships Recruiting Schedule Quick Fact No. 32 Many LSBE students juggle multiple responsibilities such as school work, jobs, club activities, etc.

accounting

Professionally trained accountants no longer merely “keep the books” of a business. Students thinking about entering the profession today should think of the job as a strategic position.

Today’s accountants—who are in more demand than ever—develop key business intelligence, allowing clients to analyze their processes, business issues, and business risks. The accountant provides an indispensable service to businesses, government, and non-profit organizations.

The growing globalization and complexity of modern business has increased demand in this ever-changing field. At the same time, the supply of accounting graduates has declined. Today’s accountant must not only have a high level of technical skills, but must also have good communication and analytical skills, and the ability to work with people.

Employers are looking for people with the ability to analyze and evaluate complex business problems and the interpersonal skills to make decisions in an increasingly client-focused environment. Success as an accountant requires motivation, a commitment to service, and skills in communication and analysis. Also important are abilities to work well with others, to think abstractly, and to solve problems systematically.

Successful accountants are also proficient with management information systems; they can design and implement new systems, as well as provide the expertise required in internal control and auditing to review and audit both new and existing systems.

Accounting Opportunities
Public accountants provide their clients with auditing as well as other “assurance” services:“forensic” accounting to help uncover fraud, information technology design implementation and auditing, business consulting, and tax advisory services.

Accountants in private industry provide financial management and reporting services, internal auditing, management accounting and analysis, and tax planning. Many accountants serve as a company’s controller, treasurer, chief financial officer, or other executive officer.

Accountants in government often are involved in performance auditing, financial reporting or auditing, compliance audits and/or investigative audits.

Accountants in the non-profit sector provide similar advisory services, including financial budgeting and reporting, development of internal control systems, and tax services.