What Accountancy Roles Can I Get With My Accounting Degree?

Accounting graduates are blessed with many career avenues to pursue after university. With a strong foundation in accounting principles and excellent numerical, problem-solving and communication skills, accounting graduates are highly employable. 

In our latest insights piece, we delve into what different jobs are available with an accounting degree and tips for finding the best job opportunities with an accounting degree. 

Overview of the job market for accounting in the UK

Accurate financial reporting is essential to keeping businesses afloat and profitable, so accounting jobs are in high demand and offer job stability. There are a variety of full-time and part-time roles available in the accounting field, from entry-level positions to more senior and managerial roles. However, as well as opening the door to a career in accounting and various other financial roles, an accounting degree provides transferable skills for many sectors.   

Different types of accounting roles available

The variety of roles and tasks for accounting graduates is vast, including:

• Auditors: Assess a company's financial records to ensure they meet legal and accounting requirements.
• Bookkeepers: Handle day-to-day accounting functions, like data entry and accounts payable/receivable.
• Financial Analysts: Analyse financial data and provide strategic guidance.
• Tax Accountants: Prepare tax returns and advise companies on how to pay taxes.
• Financial Controllers: Oversee the in-house activities of the accounting department within a company.

As well as accountancy firms, other potential employers of accounting graduates may include:

• Highstreet or investment banks 
• Insurance companies
• Public sector organisations
• Management consultancies

Many finance sector roles are often found in larger companies, such as multinational accountancy firms. However, there are also plenty of opportunities for accounting graduates in smaller businesses and start-ups. It's also worth remembering that many businesses have their own finance departments and, in the wider context, many employers accept applications from graduates of any subject. 

Benefits of having an accounting degree

An accounting degree provides valuable knowledge and skills that apply to various jobs in the financial sector, not to mention a whole raft of transferable skills. With an accounting degree, you'll have the opportunity to develop a strong understanding of the principles and theories used in accounting practices and gain extensive experience with the various software programs used in the industry. 

You will learn how to read and analyse financial statements, which is a valuable skill for any job in the field. In addition, an accounting degree can give you access to various job opportunities in the field, from entry-level positions to more senior roles. 

According to Prospects, more than half (53.5%) of accounting and finance graduates secure positions in business, HR or finance, with 26% pursuing clerical, secretarial or administrative roles.

Tips for finding job opportunities with an accounting degree

One of the best ways to find potential job opportunities is to network. Attend industry events like trade shows and conferences, talk to people in your field, and join professional organisations. It's also important to keep your CV and LinkedIn profile up-to-date with your experience and qualifications. Plus, research potential employers and reach out if you have any questions or want to learn more about a position. 

Required skills and qualifications for accounting roles

An accounting degree should equip you with a good understanding of accounting principles and excellent problem-solving skills. Naturally, you will be able to work well with numbers and have strong communication and organisational skills. Many finance positions require candidates to hold a Bachelor's degree in Accounting or a related field and have experience with accounting software and other relevant programs. 

Some positions may require you to attain further qualifications and certification from a professional body, such as the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), or the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT). 

Latest Accountant jobs at Spencer Clarke Group

If you’re searching for your next Accountant job, why not take a look at all the vacancies currently available in accountancy practices across the UK? 

Can’t find what you’re looking for? Why not upload your CV or contact our accountancy and finance specialist, Matt Byrne-Fraser, to discover more about upcoming opportunities.

Meet Matt Byrne-Fraser

Who is Spencer Clarke Group? 

Since 2017, we've been changing the face of recruitment. From our employees, to the way we do business, to the culture within our office, we're determined to make a difference and create a positive impact on everyone around us.

Recruitment to us isn't just about matching candidates and clients; we’re passionate about finding candidates the perfect job which has the ability to boost their salary and standard of living, better their work life balance and improve their mental health. 

Similarly, we understand the impact which an experienced and skilled employee can make to a business and we love seeing clients thrive through the hard work of candidates which we have placed with them. 

We operate in two sectors:

Private Sector

Public Sector 

In eleven specialisms:

Accountancy & Finance

Education & SEND

Construction, Trades & Labour

Healthcare, Social Care & Nursing

Housing

Corporate Functions & Business Support

HR & Workforce Development

IT & Digital

Property & Asset Management  

Planning, Development & Regeneration 

Highways, Infrastructure & Engineering

If you’re searching for a new role, why not visit our job page to take a look at the latest opportunities? Alternatively, upload your CV and one of our experienced consultants will contact you when a relevant opportunity becomes available. 

If you’re struggling to fill a role, why don’t you give us a call on 01772 954200 to see how we can help? One of our consultants will be happy to listen to the challenges which you are facing and advise on the best possible solution for you.