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Are you thinking about pursuing a career in business and accounting?
Accounting is a well-sought after profession, as it is very much needed in nearly all industries. With jobs such as auditors, business advisors, and financial consulting, it can be a lucrative career as you rise up the ranks.
Although, did you know that the field of accounting is also wider than you think? Those with a background in accounting can delve into other fields, should they wish to dabble in something different.
Among the historical figures who had a background in accounting include John D. Rockefeller, the world’s first billionaire and J.P Morgan, one of the US’s prominent financial figures. A few other popular figures you probably didn’t know had an accounting degree are saxophone artist Kenny G, book author John Grisham, and Air Asia’s Tony Fernandes!
Here is a list of unusual jobs you can pursue with an accounting degree:
1. Forensic auditor
If you have keen investigative skills and love doing detective work, you can become a regular Sherlock Holmes in this accounting-based job! In this line of work, you’ll need to analyse financial documents to identify financial fraud, embezzlement, extortion, and other illegal activities.
If you’ve ever watched any CSI/FBI TV shows, you’ll know that forensics requires presenting evidence that is appropriate to be used in court. Thus, forensic auditors need to have attention to detail as well as good communication and written skills. Put on your deerstalker cap and dive straight into investigating people and numbers. ;D
2. Business owner
Having an accounting degree as an entrepreneur is especially useful, because a background in accounting teaches you skills such as problem-solving, time management, and teamwork, all of which are important for starting your own business.
Plus, when it comes to knowing how money flows within your organisation, you will have a better understanding of the business mechanics, and you’ll be able to make smarter financial decisions.
Thanks to your solid background in accounting, you will be poised to bring your business to a whole new level.
3. Entertainment financial advisor
With an accounting degree, you can still be a part of the entertainment scene. Whether it’s overseeing the costs of a film production, or managing a superstar’s income or property taxes, these jobs are always in demand.
If you have an interest in other entertainment sectors such as music or gaming, you can always do your research and discover if they require your expertise. Sharpen your organisational, management, and analytical skills for a chance to excel in this industry!
4. Fashion accountant
Got a passion for fashion and a knack for numbers? Sashay into the fashion industry with your accounting knowledge! Professionals are required for various roles within this industry, such as supply chain finance manager, retail finance manager, accounts team, and a fashion purchasing manager.
You’ll need an understanding of the fashion industry as well as a sense of creativity alongside your knowledge in cost analysis to excel in this field.
5. College/university professor
If you are passionate about teaching, you can make a career out of teaching accountancy to college or university students. While teaching full-time would require you to pursue your studies until you have a Masters or PhD qualification, you can start off by teaching part-time, and slowly work your way to the top.
One of the perks of working as a lecturer is the hours are flexible, allowing you to have a work-life balance. If you have good people skills and a deep understanding of the subject, this is a career worth looking into.
6. Accounting software developer
Banks, corporations, and credit card companies are among places of work for accountants in the IT sector. Professional accountants are needed to create and support accounting applications, which is why it would be ideal for you to have both an accounting and a programming background in this field.
7. Actuary
Actuaries serve as the backbone for the financial industry, as they predict the profitability of various customers by using several mathematical and statistical formulas, as well as use data to assess and manage future risks.
While they work predominantly in the insurance sector, their services are required in banks, investment companies, and security and commodity broker firms. Plus, some even work as regulators or lecturers.
No matter which career you choose to pursue, it’s always a good step to choose a reputable course when embarking on your journey in accounting
Taylor’s College ACCA Foundation in Accounting (FIA) programme is one of the best routes in obtaining a professional accounting qualification, as Taylor’s has designed their programme to include creative and critical thinking skills.
The programme equips students with the skills and knowledge to take on any corporate or business position. It is a robust qualification which opens the door to a whole wide business world, and it grooms students to become intrapreneurs or entrepreneurs.
With professional accountants and learned educators teaching at Taylor’s College ACCA FIA programme, the students learning this course are in good hands
The lecturers share practical examples to help students understand the syllabus better, and they can learn the possible ways to address accounting-related issues. With past industry experience in multinational corporations, these educators are able to impart these useful skills to students, preparing them to know what to expect once they graduate.
The best part about the Taylor’s ACCA FIA programme is classes are kept small, and lecturers are happy to accommodate to flexible consultation hours apart from class times. Plus, students have the option to re-watch their lectures anytime and anywhere on their ReWind platform for the sections they have missed.