Future Trends Within the Accounting Profession

The U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that employment for accounting positions will grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2006. Presently, there are about 1 million accountants and auditors based on a BLS survey of accounting firms, companies, government agencies, and other employers.

As the number of business establishments increases, they will require more accountants and auditors to set up their financial, technological and internal control systems, provide tax preparation and planning assistance, as well as management consulting advice and other business advisory services. This will require accountant's skills and depth of knowledge to interpret and analyze the data and participate in management of the business

Demands on accountants to provide specially tailored, accurate, information to clients, co-workers and management continues to increase.

Companies look to recruit professionals who can fulfill the role of strategic business advisor, people who can anticipate emerging needs and are capable of finding creative solutions to a company's business problems. A bachelor's degree is usually the minimum educational requirement to become an accountant, which makes an online accounting degree a very flexible and convenient option.

Opportunities to work in smaller public accounting firms are also expanding. These firms will benefit from clients looking to them to fulfill the business advisory role.