If you're looking to boost your career in bookkeeping, there are many online courses available that can help you get started.
The American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) offers a comprehensive certification program that covers topics such as financial statements, payroll, and accounts receivable.
With the AIPB certification, you can demonstrate your expertise to potential employers and increase your chances of landing a job.
You can complete the AIPB certification program in as little as 6-12 months, depending on your schedule and learning pace.
Online Bookkeeping Courses
Online bookkeeping courses are a great way to upgrade your skills without breaking the bank. They're affordable and accessible, making them perfect for continuing professional development.
Enrolling in a free online bookkeeping course can increase your competitive standing in the job market. Having certifications on hand can certainly help your chances of getting hired, even if most employers don't require proof of them.
An online bookkeeping course can prepare you to pursue a bookkeeping certification, which can increase your bookkeeping salary potential with respected credentials. It's a great way to boost your career prospects, especially if you're just starting out.
If you're interested in sharpening your bookkeeping skills, consider enrolling in one or more of the following free courses:
- Business Payroll Tax Accounting
- 10-Key
- Spreadsheet Analysis and Design
- Practical Accounting
Course Options
If you're looking for online bookkeeping courses, there are several options to choose from. Alison offers a variety of free courses, including Business Payroll Tax Accounting and Spreadsheet Analysis and Design.
Some courses, like AccountingCoach, cover a range of topics from accounting basics to depreciation. These courses are especially beneficial for bookkeepers and accountants returning to the workforce.
Here are some online course options to consider:
- Alison: Offers free courses in business accounting, effective bookkeeping, and payroll, with introductory and advanced courses available.
- AccountingCoach: Provides in-depth courses on major bookkeeping subjects, including practice quizzes and flashcards.
- Accounting Preparation Certificate: A foundation course for students starting their accounting studies, covering basic accounting principles and industry-standard financial tools.
Benefits of Free Courses
Free online bookkeeping courses are an affordable way to continue your education and improve your skills.
These courses can help you sharpen your skills and test your knowledge in various accounting subjects.
Having a certification can increase your chances of getting hired, even though most employers don't require proof of certification.
Online bookkeeping courses can prepare you to pursue a bookkeeping certification, which can be beneficial, especially when starting out in your bookkeeping career.
Having a certification can also increase your bookkeeping salary potential with respected credentials.
EdX
edX offers a range of free bookkeeping courses through the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). These courses are self-paced and can be completed in six weeks or longer, requiring 5-8 hours of coursework per week.
No prior knowledge of bookkeeping or accounting is necessary to begin the introductory course, making it accessible to anyone. ACCA courses benefit individuals starting a career in finance, business, or accountancy, as well as experienced bookkeepers and accountants looking to brush up on their skills.
Courses cover topics such as introduction to bookkeeping, intermediate bookkeeping, financial accounting, and introduction to management accounting. edX's courses are a great resource for those looking to develop their bookkeeping skills without breaking the bank.
Applied Accounting, BAS
The Applied Accounting, BAS degree is a great option for those who want to gain in-depth accounting knowledge and develop project-based, supervisory, or management skills. This degree is ideal for graduates with accounting or accounting-related two-year degrees, and for those currently working who seek advanced skills.
You'll explore tools and techniques from business, communication, information technology, and other fields to interpret business and accounting information. This degree prepares graduates for careers that require in-depth accounting knowledge.
Graduates with this degree can expect to develop skills in system design, structure, and flow, as well as effective data management and analysis. They'll also gain expertise in interpreting business and accounting information.
To get started, consider enrolling in a bookkeeping course that covers topics such as types of business transactions, double-entry bookkeeping systems, and managing and calculating payroll. These skills are essential for any accounting professional.
Here are some potential career paths for those with an Applied Accounting, BAS degree:
- Accountant
- Financial Analyst
- Bookkeeper
- Financial Manager
Keep in mind that certification can also be beneficial for bookkeepers and accountants. The AIPB certificate, or American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers, is a certificate bookkeepers can obtain to show their professional expertise.
Certifications and Credentials
Pursuing online bookkeeping courses is a great way to gain valuable knowledge and skills that can be showcased through certifications and credentials.
Earning a certification like the QuickBooks Certified User (QBCU) or the Xero Certified Advisor (XCA) can open doors to new career opportunities.
Showcasing your key skills and valuable knowledge through certifications and credentials can give you a competitive edge in the job market.
Having a certification can also increase your earning potential, as many employers require or prefer candidates with certifications.
Course Content and Structure
This bookkeeping course curriculum covers the principles used in the practice, including types of business transactions and how to document them.
The course may be complementary to a larger study in accounting or to coursework on entrepreneurship. An introductory course in bookkeeping may cover topics such as double-entry bookkeeping systems, banking process and transactions, and managing and calculating payroll.
The course curriculum may include topics such as maintaining ledger accounts, understanding bank reconciliations, and managing and calculating payroll. These topics are essential for learners to understand the importance of bookkeeping in business.
The course may be divided into modules, each covering a specific topic. For example, Module 7: Introduction Into Bookkeeping covers the importance of bookkeeping, single-entry bookkeeping, and double-entry bookkeeping. Module 8: Proper Bookkeeping covers posting and coding, balancing and testing the books, and preparation of financial statements.
Here is a list of some of the courses that may be offered as part of the bookkeeping program:
- Business Payroll Tax Accounting
- 10-Key
- Spreadsheet Analysis and Design
- Practical Accounting
The course may also cover advanced topics such as tracking and reporting taxes, handling an audit, and avoiding illegal accounting practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a bookkeeping course cost?
The cost of a bookkeeping course is approximately $160 USD, based on less than 4 hours of learning per week. Cost may vary depending on your completion pace, so check our Enrollment Options page for more financial information.
Can I teach myself to be a bookkeeper?
Yes, you can teach yourself to be a bookkeeper through an approved online course, which is available in various formats. A basic understanding of accounting principles is also beneficial for self-taught bookkeeping.
What certificate do you need to be a bookkeeper?
To become a bookkeeper, you typically need a certificate in bookkeeping, an associate degree in accounting, or a bachelor's degree in accounting. Practical training through an internship or on-the-job experience can also be beneficial.
How long does it take to get a bookkeeping certificate online?
Get certified in bookkeeping in as little as 4 months with our self-paced online course. Complete the course in a timeframe that suits you and start your bookkeeping career.
Sources
- https://www.forbes.com/advisor/education/business-and-marketing/online-bookkeeping-courses/
- https://www.edx.org/learn/bookkeeping
- https://noce.edu/programs/careers/bookkeeping/
- https://www.bellevuecollege.edu/academics/undergraduate-programs/bookkeeping-certificate-of-accomplishment/
- https://internationalopenacademy.com/products/accounting-and-bookkeeping-course
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