Accounting | Career Centre

A choice for those oriented towards working in business and management, an Accounting
major provides a solid analytical and quantitative foundation for work in the professional world, whether it is leading your own business or working in accounting for a small business, a non-profit organization or a corporation. Third year students in York’s Specialized Honours Bachelor of Administrative Studies (BAS) program specializing in Accounting may be eligible to participate in a paid internship for up to twelve months.

Career Options in Accounting

This list is not exhaustive but provides an idea of the options graduates have and what they have gone on to do. Some options are more directly associated with a Accounting degree than others.

Accounts Manager
Actuary
Bank Research Analyst
Banking Representative
Business Administrator
Business Strategist
Certified General Accountant
Certified Information Systems Analyst
Certified Internal Auditor
Certified Management Accountant
Chartered Accountant
Chartered Financial Analyst
Comptroller
Corporate Banker
Entrepreneur
Executive Assistant
Forensic Accountant
Investment Strategist

Loan Officer
Management Consultant
Market Research Analyst
Mergers & Acquisitions Consultant
Policy Planner
Portfolio Manager
Public Accountant
Purchasing Agent
Real Estate Agent
Researcher
Risk Manager
Securities Analyst
Statistician
Stockbroker
Tax Accountant
Trader
Underwriter
Venture Capitalist

Some of these career choices may require additional education or preparation in the form of graduate studies, experiential education or professional formative courses and exams. For a more in-depth description of some of the careers mentioned above visit Career Cruising (login information can be found on the home page of the Career Centre's online system) or the National Occupational Classification website.

Skills Developed through an Accounting Degree

A background in Accounting ensures that you develop the skills and mindset to tackle many different professional challenges.

Core Accounting Skills

Specialized knowledge in managerial accounting, income taxation, finance, auditing and analysis.
An understanding of general business and management practices
Preparation for a professional designation such as Chartered Accountant, Certified Management Accountant and Certified General Accountant

Data Gathering and Organizational Skills

Deduction of information from various sources and the ability to concentrate on relevant resources
The ability to organize, understand and analyze sources of information and to apply novel forms of technology or new information to different professional settings and tasks
The ability to learn new information and apply this to professional demands
The capacity to critically analyze problems, think creatively and make sound decisions while considering different sides of an argument

Management and Teamwork

The ability to interpret and analyze information presented by peers and efficiently and constructively support or challenge their proposals, theories, ideas and reports in order to achieve a project’s intended and successful end result
The capacity to lead and interact with a variety of people with different approaches and personal and professional backgrounds
Skills enabling you to work effectively in group situations, partaking in decision-making, leading and contributing in various capacities to the ultimate success of the team and task

Professional Associations and Organizations

Knowing the industry and how to excel in it after receiving a degree are key elements of future success. University study sets up the building blocks you will need to develop and enhance your understanding and knowledge in your career. Being part of a professional organization or network and gaining further insight through training are excellent ways of increasing your knowledge of the field.