Helping Students Explore Career Paths in Accounting and Finance

If you like applying critical thinking skills to situations involving money or math, a career in finance or accounting may be a good fit. Students can pursue career paths that lead to solid positions in financial analysis or budgeting within these fields. But not every high school or college student understands that these careers even exist. That’s why it’s so important to help students see the connections between their interests in the classroom and potential career paths.

Keep reading to learn more about how to guide students toward jobs in accounting and finance, and which credentials will matter most.

Investigating Finance and Accounting

Accounting might not always sound like the most exciting job. And most students will probably connect accounting with the taxes their parents have to file every spring. The field is a lot wider than most people think, however, and it’s critical for teachers and advisors to help students understand this. Accounting involves far more than sitting at a desk and crunching numbers. While some accountants review data to help shape decision-making for businesses, others may prepare financial reports. Individuals working in finance can handle investments and money management to help individuals or corporations reach financial targets.

Students can pursue careers in corporate accounting, which entails overseeing payroll and budgeting at a given company. With public accounting careers, individuals will offer tax services to help clients file their taxes correctly.

Other options include a career in financial planning, which involves assisting businesses with investments or individuals with retirement planning. Management accounting careers are geared toward helping companies enhance their financial status through data-driven strategies.

Why Credentials Matter

While students can seek an accounting degree through an undergraduate institution, they’ll position themselves for better jobs and career growth by adding credentials to their names. Industry-recognized credentials include the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA). Ultimately, students should determine what direction they want to head within accounting or finance to choose the appropriate credential.

Considering the CMA

Students can look into careers as financial analysts, where they’ll manage investment portfolios and help evaluate risks. The Certified Management Accountant (CMA) credential can be a huge asset when it comes to navigating this track. Students should look into the top CMA exam courses to prepare for the test.

To earn a CMA, students will need to pass two exams covering performance management and financial planning, among other critical areas. Students eager to ascend into management roles and leadership positions will benefit greatly from the CMA. This path may appeal to students with strong analytical skills and an eagerness to strategize financial solutions.

Helping Students Find the Right Career Path

Students may need a little nudge to look into careers in finance and accounting. Teachers and advisors will need to help students see the connections between the analytical thinking they use in math or business classes and the types of career possibilities in accounting. Teachers can outline the steps necessary to pursue these careers, including educational degrees and additional credentials, like the CMA. When students can cast a vision toward a meaningful career, they’ll be able to set and work toward their goals.