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What type of classes should I take if I'm interested in a career in accounting?

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Claudio S’s Answer

I have taught accounting at the university and graduate level and one thing I noticed is that a lot of students do not know how to read and write. By read and write, I mean being able to analyze and apply critical thinking to a problem. In the practice of accounting, you will deal with problems, challenges and limitations (e.g. resource allocation - how do you maximize profit given limited resources to allocate).

So, I will suggest take classes that will build your "critical thinking" skills. You can also take a crash course in bookkeeping so you will get an understanding of the fundamentals/basics of accounting and how it is used in real life. As in most subject, the best way to learn accounting is by practicing. For example, when you are buying a new phone, you consider the following: cost vs benefit - this is accounting in real life. When you are deciding whether to buy a pay per ride or a monthly pass subway card, you are practicing or applying accounting.
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Brad’s Answer

Hello! Great question.

If you are currently in high school or entering high school - Many high schools do not offer accounting specific courses. However, this is a great time to take as many math, business, and computer classes that your high school does offer. Being an accountant requires math knowledge and well as computer skills (such as Microsoft Excel). The sooner you can learn these skills the better!

If you are interested in pursuing a college degree - Many community colleges and four-year universities offer business and accounting programs. Once you pick a college or university that you are interested in, they will have a course catalog for each major that will outline the necessary classes in order to graduate with your degree!
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Katie’s Answer

I totally agree with the above comment! More specifically, college classes in financial accounting, managerial accounting and finance are very helpful. I also took a class on financial statement analysis that was an in-depth breakdown of the financial statements and ratios for one company. That was one of my favorite and most useful classes from college.
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Tina’s Answer

If you can take a bookkeeping class, that provides a good background on debits and credits, the cornerstone of accounting. As a senior in high school I happened to take such a class and it provided me with an opportunity to learn and clarify what career I wanted to pursue. Other classes that help you develop logic and reasoning skills are also very important - math and science classes are good for that.
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Claire’s Answer

If your high school offers accounting classes, that would be a great first step! Don't worry if they don't though, I think accounting classes at the high school level are rare. I would definitely look into colleges and universities with accounting programs, and take at least intro to financial and managerial accounting. Definitely brush up on your technical skills with Excel as well!
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