Bookkeeping is a term that is thrown about carelessly in business circles, though the primary responsibility of a bookkeeper is balance the company ledger. In the modern business world, doing so can require a lot more than simply deciding between single entry and double entry accounting methods. For example, tax liabilities for even the smallest of retail and wholesale companies can be substantially reduced or offset to provide maximum cash flow depending on how inventory is recorded and managed.
Some educational institutions have, in recent years, recognized the need for more finite and niche oriented accounting programs at the bachelor level. Where once accounting majors had to enroll in a postgraduate degree program in order to specialize, many are now able to do so in the first for years of postsecondary education. The positives of this shift lie in the ability to prepare for industry specific accounting jobs, while the consequent negatives are in reduced employment opportunities across the broad spectrum of business. Still, it is the graduates from these types of degree programs that are highly sought by businesses in many different industries, and for good reason.
Bookkeeping is an essential function of any business’ accounting department, which is why bookkeepers will always be in demand. No matter what type of business one is involved in, there are protocol commonalities that are shared with every other company in existence, from the smallest family owned local company to the largest corporations in the world. For those businesses who require specialized accounting knowledge to maintain their daily operations at maximum efficiency and limit their tax liability in the process, accounting degree holders with an understanding of the processes unique to the industry in question are required as well.
Regulation of industries in terms of accounting methods isn’t universal across the board. What is considered best practices in the manufacturing industry may be unsuitable for service based companies. When it comes to an accounting education, students who take the time to consider the possibilities of specializing are more likely to be rewarded, provided they can find employment in their area of interest. For students who choose a generalized account degree, there is always the option of specializing through a master’s level program or postgraduate certification.
The Advantages of an Undergraduate Online Education for Recent High School Graduates
For most recent high school graduates, the temptation to take a little time off for fun, relaxation or travel is ever present. Many want to work and save in order to pay for at least a portion of their postsecondary education, while others simply wish to get away from academia for a while and sort out their options. Unfortunately, every delay in earning a degree can have adverse consequences on a person’s future ability to be financially independent and secure.
The Importance of Choosing the Right College Major for Working Adults
Choosing a college major can be a major pain in the neck, especially for working adults attempting to redirect their careers. While new students who haven’t incurred the responsibilities of life in full force may have the luxury of changing direction several times throughout their academic journey, working adults have a different set of priorities when it comes to education.
The Real Value of an Associate’s Degree
An associate of arts or sciences degree program has traditionally been viewed as a stepping stone to a bachelor degree for those are unable to commit to a four year program. Rarely a matter of speculative finances alone, the reasons for choosing to earn an associate’s degree are as varied as the students who choose to take this educational path. For all the connotations that choosing to earn an associate’s degree holds, however, the real positives are rarely discussed.
