Employment opportunities
Parkland’s A.A.S. program prepares graduates for junior accountant positions in payroll, cost accounting, purchasing, inventory, accounts receivable and payable, tax accounting, and other general accounting. With a certificate in accounting, students are prepared to work as bookkeepers.

Job outlook
Job opportunities for accountants, bookkeepers, and clerks are available in every business and organization that deals with money. Demand is especially high for those who are trained in the use of computer information systems. Many opportunities for temporary and part-time work will also be available.

Earning potential
Salaries of junior accountants, bookkeepers, and clerks vary regionally and with the size of city and type and size of the business. Median earnings of full-time bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks nationwide were $30,700 for 2005, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Career advancement
With experience, junior accountants and bookkeepers are often promoted to supervisory positions. In addition, you may take other business courses at Parkland or transfer to enhance your opportunities.

Career choices with your certificate:
• Bookkeeper
• Clerk
• Junior accountant

With experience and/or further education you may go on to:
• Chief financial officer
• Controller
• Manager
• Senior accountant