In public accounting, the accountant is employed by a CPA firm and may specialize in such areas as auditing, tax or management consulting. Within those areas, industry specializations such as health care, insurance or retail are also common. Public accounting offers a good opportunity for learning about many types of businesses. In fact, it is not uncommon for firm members to accept jobs with clients or with a company that is in an industry similar to those they have learned about through their public accounting experience. When working in private industry, accountants are employed in a variety of technical or management positions in auditing, controllership, taxation, planning or administration.
Similar positions are available for the governmental accountant.
CPA's often serve as chief financial officers, treasurers and planning directors. Additionally, you may find tax attorneys and attorneys practicing securites law who are also CPA's. Accountants who work in education are usually college professors, a very rewarding career. My work experience has included three of the four areas mentioned above, so I do have some insight into the profession and I would be happy to talk with you about a career in accounting. Professional status for accounting is evidenced by a number of certificates which are earned by examination and, in some cases, completion of certain experience requirements.