10 Non-Accountant Jobs You Can Get with An Accounting Degree

Embarking on a journey toward a career in accounting opens the door to a multitude of possibilities. Beyond the traditional role of accountants, graduates with an accounting degree possess a skill set coveted by various occupations and industries. In this exploration, we delve into the realm of career options that extend beyond the conventional boundaries of accounting.

Why get an accounting degree?

Before delving into the array of career paths, let’s briefly address the foundational question: Why pursue an accounting degree?

Building a foundation of financial expertise

Embarking on the journey of obtaining an accounting degree is not merely a choice; it’s a strategic decision that lays the foundation for a robust career. The core objective is to foster a comprehensive understanding of financial principles, regulations, and business practices. Here’s why individuals opt to pursue this educational path. 

• Analytical Skills: An accounting degree hones analytical skills, enabling graduates to dissect complex financial data, identify patterns, and draw informed conclusions. This skill set is invaluable in making strategic business decisions.
• Attention to Detail: The meticulous nature of accounting requires acute attention to detail. Students develop a keen eye for accuracy, ensuring financial records are precise and comply with regulatory standards.
• Strategic Mindset: Beyond numbers, an accounting degree cultivates a strategic mindset. Graduates learn to view financial data holistically, considering its implications for organizational success and sustainability.

Navigating a dynamic professional landscape

In the contemporary professional landscape, the demand for individuals with financial expertise extends across diverse industries. While traditional accounting roles are foundational, the skills acquired through an accounting degree position graduates for success in various capacities.

10 Exciting jobs beyond traditional accounting roles

Being an accountant is going to be the top career choice for accounting graduates. But for those who prefer a different route, you can check out the other jobs for accounting graduates below:

1. Financial Analyst

• Description: Delve into the world of financial analysis, where professionals assess intricate financial data, evaluate investment opportunities, and deliver strategic recommendations to businesses and individuals.
• Salary Potential: With a median annual salary of $95,570 in 2021, financial analysts play a pivotal role in shaping financial strategies.

2. Internal Auditor

• Description: Internal auditors safeguard organizational integrity by meticulously examining and evaluating financial records, ensuring compliance with regulations, and identifying areas for enhancement.
• Salary Potential: Earning a median annual salary of $57,520 in 2021, internal auditors contribute to the financial health and compliance of their organizations.

3. Budget Analyst

• Description: Navigate the financial landscape as a budget analyst, contributing to organizational financial management by preparing budgets, monitoring expenditures, and analyzing financial proposals.
• Salary Potential: Budget analysts, with a median annual salary of $76,220 in 2021, play a crucial role in optimizing financial resources.

4. Business and Financial Consultant

• Description: Leverage your accounting expertise as a consultant, providing invaluable services to entrepreneurs and businesses in financial planning and management.
• Salary Potential: Earnings in consultancy vary based on project scope, showcasing flexibility and potential profitability for accounting graduates.

5. Financial Examiner

• Description: Ensure financial compliance and protect consumers by becoming a financial examiner, evaluating the health of financial institutions, and enforcing adherence to financial laws.
• Salary Potential: Financial examiners earned a median annual salary of $81,410 in 2021, contributing to financial sector stability.

6. Finance Manager

• Description: Take on a leadership role as a finance manager, overseeing an organization’s financial health, directing investments, reviewing performance, and strategically planning for the future.
• Salary Potential: Finance managers earned a median of $131,710 in 2021, with a notable job growth projection of over 17% by 2031.

7. Management Analyst

• Description: Dive into organizational efficiency as a management analyst, providing recommendations to address operational issues and implement effective business strategies.
• Salary Potential: Management analysts earned a median annual salary of $93,000 in 2021, with an 11% job growth expected through 2031.

8. Personal Financial Advisor

• Description: Guide individuals through financial intricacies as a personal financial advisor, offering expertise in tax laws, investments, and insurance.
• Salary Potential: Personal financial advisors earned a median annual salary of $94,170 in 2021, with a projected 15% job growth through 2031.

9. Business Valuation Specialist

• Description: Become a specialist in business valuation, assessing the economic value of businesses and providing critical insights for mergers, acquisitions, and strategic decision-making.
• Salary Potential: Earnings in this specialized field can vary based on expertise and the complexity of valuation projects.

10. Certified Financial Planner (CFP)

• Description: Embark on a journey as a Certified Financial Planner, assisting individuals in comprehensive financial planning, covering investments, retirement, and estate planning.
• Salary Potential: CFPs often earn fees based on the comprehensive financial planning services they provide.

Is an accounting degree worth the investment?

Considering the diverse array of career options, the value of an accounting degree extends beyond the confines of traditional accounting roles.

Diverse skill set for versatile careers

Considering the dynamic nature of the job market, an accounting degree proves to be an investment with multifaceted returns. The skills cultivated during the educational journey go beyond number-crunching and financial reporting. Graduates emerge with: 

• Financial Analysis: The ability to dissect financial statements, assess economic trends, and provide insights crucial for informed decision-making.
• Strategic Thinking: A holistic understanding of financial implications on business strategies, offering a unique perspective for organizational success.
• Ethical Conduct: A strong foundation in ethical principles, instilling integrity and responsibility in financial practices.

An accounting degree is not just for accountants

In conclusion, an accounting degree is not solely a ticket to a career in accounting. It is a passport to a world of opportunities where financial expertise is highly sought after. Whether delving into financial analysis, internal auditing, or consultancy, graduates with an accounting degree are equipped to navigate the complex landscape of finance and business.

So, what jobs can you get with an accounting degree? The answer is a spectrum of possibilities that extend far beyond the expected, offering a fulfilling and dynamic career journey. As industries evolve, the adaptability and versatility instilled by an accounting degree become invaluable assets, ensuring graduates thrive in the ever-changing professional landscape.