Accounting is one of the most stable professions in today’s economy, and the accounting jobs available with an associates degree typically offer great, entry-level options to those who have spent two years working hard to learn the basics of Generally Accepted Accounting Practices, financial reporting, budgeting, and tax policy. Students who have at least an Associate of Science in the field, or an Associate of Applied Science, will find that their skills can be put to use almost immediately in businesses, tax firms, and smaller organizations. Furthermore, these positions offer valuable occupational experience that might come in handy for accountants who later decide to pursue a Bachelor’s degree, graduate programs, and even full licensure as a Certified Public Accountant.

Accounting Graduates Have a Wide Array of Careers Awaiting Their Arrival

The great thing about an accounting degree, whether it’s a two-year degree or a more advanced alternative, is that the skills learned as part of the program can be translated to so many different occupations and long-term careers. For those with an Associate’s in Accounting, consider these popular choices for graduates with this credential:

Billing and Payroll Clerks

There are two ways that companies tend to spend money or make some in return: Billing for products and services rendered, or paying employees to provide a superior experience to customers. Those who land a job as a billing or payroll clerk will be at the center of both activities. They’ll draft bills for goods and services, note them in the ledger, and document whether they were paid or if any further collection needs to be enforced. Those who handle payroll will calculate hours worked, salaried compensation, benefits and tax deductions, vacation time allotments, and more.

Accounts Receivable

When a bill must be collected, it goes to an accounts receivable clerk who contacts the debtor and arranges for full payment of the outstanding obligation. This is where accountants come in handy: They know how to notate an outstanding debt, a payment plan, or a past due obligation. They know how to document the effect of an account receivable on company revenue and financial reporting so that quarterly results are perfectly accurate each and every time.

Accounting Assistant

In strict accounting firms, an accounting assistant is often needed to help senior accountants offset their high workload. In this role, graduates from a two-year program will do those duties that can be completed by a non-CPA, and they’ll often interact directly with clients in an effort to communicate the status of their business accounting, tax filing, or other needs. This position is a great entry-level option for recent graduates and can help build experience that will lead to advancement in the future.

Bookkeeping Positions

Bookkeeping involves more documentation than strict accounting, making it a great fit for entry-level candidates who recently graduated from a two-year program. In this role, professionals will assemble ledgers, financial report, and extensive records detail accounts payable, accounts receivable, sales, and other bills.

Related Resource: Different Types of Accounting Degrees

Excellent Opportunities for Those with an Associate’s Degree in Accounting

Thanks to stable job growth and excellent salaries, those who recently finished a two-year accounting degree can expect to qualify for some excellent, entry-level positions. According to Forbes, the accounting jobs available with an associates degree are highly varied, but allow students to gain some experience in every aspect of the industry while they determine their long-term career goals and professional interests.