Iowa Accounting Schools and Your Accounting Career

Training for a career in accounting can be a giant step toward career security. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that jobs for accountants will increase by 22 percent between 2008 and 2018. Accounting skills are needed in almost every employment sector. Corporations hire CPAs for auditing and addressing potential problems with financial and tax reporting. State and local governments hire accountants, and accounting knowledge is also useful for small business owners.

Accounting Colleges in Iowa: Prepare for CPA Exam

Entry level accounting positions typically require a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or related field, but those already employed as accounting clerks may advance with a combination of work experience and an associate's degree. Candidates holding an MS in accounting or an MBA with a concentration in accounting are expected to have the best opportunities for employment.

Accountants and graduates of Iowa accounting colleges seeking to acquire the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation must pass a standardized exam prepared by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. The BLS notes that this exam is offered in four sections, and is very difficult; approximately one half of candidates pass the CPA exam on their first attempt. The good news is that candidates may take the exam by section, but all four sections must be completed within 18 months. In addition, Iowa requires CPA candidates to complete 150 semester hours of college instruction; this is about 30 semester hours more than usually required for earning a bachelor's degree.

Becoming an Accountant: How Accounting Schools in Iowa Can Help

Whether you're just starting college at one of the accounting colleges in Iowa or have some college credits and want to complete your accounting degree, Iowa accounting schools and colleges can help with achieving your educational goals. Accounting programs are offered on campus, online, or you can combine both venues to suit your needs. Your success in accounting depends on certain skills and interests including:

• Strong math skills
• Analytical and problem solving skills
• An eye for detail
• Computer literacy

Studying accounting enhances these skills and also provides training for using current accounting software and programs popularly used in accounting.

Life Changing: Why Accounting Schools in Iowa?

Iowa promotes its lifestyle as life changing and as facilitating a healthy balance of personal and professional life. Iowa ranks second as the nation's most livable state for 2009, based on 43 factors including median household income and crime rates. Iowa's capital city, Des Moines, was listed as one of the best cities to live, work, and play according to Kiplinger in 2008.

When you're not attending class or hitting the books, Iowa offers an interesting array of attractions and recreational activities. Visit the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum in West Branch to view President Hoover's birth home and a replica of the Oval Office during his presidency. The Effigy Mounds National Monument is home to Native American burial and ceremonial mounds constructed to resemble various animals. The mounds were made between 500 BC and 1300 AD. The area offers 11 miles of hiking trails, and scenic views of tall grass prairie and wetlands.

If you're concerned about the cost of attending accounting school in Iowa, you may be eligible for loans, grants, and scholarships. Your first step is to fill out the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA). Don't let financial concerns stand in the way of your success.