Accountant career guide
Accountants prepare financial records, analyse business performance, advise organisations on financial decisions and ensure compliance with financial regulations.
Career guide reviewed by Certyz · October 2026
Entry routes vary by employer and role. Compare the options below before deciding what to research next.
What does an Accountant do?
Accountants prepare financial records, analyse business performance, advise organisations on financial decisions and ensure compliance with financial regulations.
- Offices
- Client premises
- Hybrid working
- Remote working
- Accountancy firms
- Businesses
- Banks
- Government departments
- Charities
How to become an Accountant
Most accountants qualify through university or a degree apprenticeship before completing professional accounting qualifications.
Degree or Degree Apprenticeship in Accounting, Finance or Business followed by professional qualifications such as ACA, ACCA or CIMA.
Professional membership of organisations such as ICAEW, ACCA or CIMA is common.
- University
- Degree apprenticeship
- Apprenticeship
Skills and progression for Accountant
- Numeracy
- Attention to detail
- Analytical thinking
- Communication
- Commercial awareness
- Senior Accountant
- Finance Manager
- Financial Controller
- Finance Director
- Chief Financial Officer
Check current entry requirements before deciding
This Certyz guide is a starting point. Qualifications, registration rules and apprenticeship availability can change. Confirm the latest requirements with employers, course providers, relevant professional bodies and official careers guidance.
What could the outlook mean for you?
Career opportunities can look different depending on where you live, your preferred route and the subjects and activities you enjoy. Your report brings those factors together rather than giving you a generic answer.
- Regional vacancy and salary intelligence
- Your personal career-match reasoning
- Opportunity strength and market direction
- Alternative careers worth considering