What kind of career and salary can I expect with an online Associate degree in Accounting?

Earning an online Associate degree in Accounting is a good starting point. Besides having to earn an associate degree before any other degree, there are several options you may want to consider as career choices if the associate degree is your end goal…or just your starting point.

---

Take a look at this: What is the difference between Bookkeeping and Accounting?

---

All companies, either small or large, require accounting services, which are the key to a successful business. Accounting personnel are required to be good stewards of the company’s finances, abide by state and federal regulations, and ensure a positive outcome for all involved; owners as well as employees.

Characteristics and Skills to be in the Field of Accounting

Ethics and discretion are very important. You must be a person with integrity and objectivity, in addition to maintaining confidentiality in all aspects of the business at all times.

You must be free from any conflicts of interest or other questionable business practices. The accounting employee must be well-organized, detail-oriented, and a good communicator.

Career Options with an Associate’s Degree in Accounting

An online Associate degree in Accounting program is an excellent foundation on which to build; however, upon graduating from your coursework, you will be eligible for a position as an:

• Accounts Receivables
• Clerk, Bookkeeper,
• Billing Clerk 
• or an Accounting Assistant.

Each of these positions is typically entry-level, leaving room for advancement as you gain valuable experience.

Accounts Receivables Clerk

The Accounts Receivables Clerk receives customer payments either through cash, checks, or credit cards. They post each payment to reflect the new balance owed. They often are responsible for aging accounts and collecting on past-due accounts.

The typical salary for this position is $44,174 annually or more, depending on experience.

Bookkeeper

A Bookkeeper earning approximately $45,860 per year is responsible for any number of general accounting procedures, including a general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, invoicing, balancing bank statements, and producing financial statements.

Billing Clerk

The average salary range for the Billing Clerk is between $44,800 annually. This varies widely, depending on the job location. The basic function of the Billing Clerk describes the essential task of creating invoices and issuing credit memos as needed. Your duties may also include gathering sales information and calculating the charges.

The Billing Clerk must pay attention to details and be consistently accurate with their numbers according to reported sales or services.

Accounting Assistants

Accounting Assistants are often employed by accounting firms to support Certified Public Accountants. Their responsibilities involve general clerical duties such as typing, receptionist, and filing duties, in addition to general accounting practices. They also invoice customers and post customer payments.

The typical salary for an Accounting Assistant is $45,860 per year.

In Conclusion…

• As you can see, an online associate degree in the field of accounting will allow you to get your foot in the door at any reputable company or accounting firm; however, it is primarily just a nice stepping stone to success while you consider earning your Bachelor’s degree in Accounting.
• An online class while maintaining a current job is ideal for those wanting to advance in their career and need flexibility and convenience while furthering their education.
• If you are interested in a career in accounting, feel free to check out our list of the Best Online Schools for Associate’s in Accounting degrees to help you along your educational journey.

---

Before you go, check this out, too:

• The Best Online Schools for Bachelor’s in Accounting Programs
• The Best Master’s in Accounting Degree Programs
• The Best Online Schools for Doctor in Accounting Degree Programs