Learn more about obtaining an online diploma in bookkeeping. Find information on courses, programs, job outlook, and salary. View popular accounting schools that prepare students for careers as bookkeepers.
Program Overview
Individuals interested in enrolling in an online bookkeeping diploma may obtain the skills needed to work as a bookkeeping clerk. Students may study assets, owner’s equity, and liabilities as well as financial reports and business principles. Students may also gain knowledge on cash and payroll accounting, income statements, and closing balance sheets. Coursework may cover computerized accounting systems and spreadsheet software applications, both of which may be helpful in analyzing bookkeeping data. Some programs may include a bookkeeping project, in which students may put their knowledge to practical use and maintain accounting records and financial statements for a sole company. Popular online bookkeeping courses may include the following:
- Assets and Liabilities
- Financial Reports
- Accounting Systems
- End-of-the-Month Activities
- Accounting Principles
- Spreadsheets
- Depreciation
Prerequisites & Continuing Education
Prior to enrolling in an online bookkeeping diploma, individuals may need to earn a high school diploma or equivalent. They may also need to have a computer, a reliable Internet connection, and specific computer operating systems or browsers. Upon graduation of an online bookkeeping diploma, individuals may pursue additional education and enroll in an online bookkeeping certificate. These programs prepare students to sit for certified bookkeeping designation offered through the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers.
Job Outlook & Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), employment opportunities for those pursuing careers as bookkeeping, auditing, and accounting clerks is expected to increase by 14% from 2010-2020, which is as fast as the average for all occupations. This increase may be due in part to overall economic growth as well as investors paying additional attention to the accuracy of corporate accounts. The BLS also reported in May 2010 that the median annual salary of bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks was $34,030 and the median hourly salary was $16.36.