Bookkeeping Schools in Arizona

There are several things candidates must know not only to start their bookkeeping careers in Arizona, but also to do so effectively. Individuals who take the right approach will also be able to advance their careers rapidly and earn above-average compensation in their category.

Readers will be able to identify all the important requirements after completing the guide below. We cover the best way to prepare for training, the types of training programs to pursue, general licensing and certification requirements and options, and specific programs suited to varying levels of availability.

Finally, the guide concludes with an analysis of the annual salary possibilities for bookkeepers in Arizona.

How to Become a Bookkeeper in Arizona

The following steps are needed to become a bookkeeper in Arizona.

Basic Prerequisites

Prospective bookkeepers must be proficient with numbers and possess strong analytical skills. This will ensure they can easily spot trends and patterns, making them well-suited for the job.

A high school diploma or a GED is also helpful in this profession.

Formal Training

To develop the technical skills needed for employment and career growth, Arizona residents typically complete a formal bookkeeping training program, but some start in entry-level accounting support roles and build skills on the job. Thankfully, candidates don’t have to commit full-time to this program, as some programs offer flexible learning options.

The most popular online self-guided programs allow students to start training at any time and complete the coursework at their own pace. We cover some of the best choices to consider in an upcoming section.

Real-World Experience

Individuals can complete an internship to further develop their bookkeeping skills. Of course, the best programs would have helped candidates gain hands-on proficiency with tools such as QuickBooks and Excel.

However, an internship will help them improve by working with real-world data.

Those with both theoretical and practical skills can secure employment. They can improve their career prospects by specializing in fields such as nonprofit bookkeeping and small-business finance.

Certification is also great for growth, and we explore this topic further below.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become a medical biller and coder in Arizona

Licensure & Certification Requirements

The National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB) is one of the most respected organizations for obtaining bookkeeper certification in Arizona. Earning a credential from the organization validates skills and demonstrates commitment and credibility to employers.

The American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) also offers a Certified Bookkeeper credential that includes these professional benefits and more. Of course, candidates must register with their chosen organization and pass a credentialing exam before they can become officially certified.

The state of Arizona does not expect bookkeepers to receive a license from any agency before they can start working professionally.

Top Bookkeeping Schools in Arizona

Below are a few institutions with amazing bookkeeping programs in Arizona.

Explore bookkeeping Schools in Arizona by city:

• Bookkeeping schools in Phoenix

Salary & Career Outlook

Generally, bookkeepers who have established themselves favorably on key factors can be among the top earners in Arizona. In this case, they will be able to manage an annual average salary of at least $63,677.

Professionals who are just starting earn an average annual salary of $35,503. According to Indeed, the average annual salary is $47,547***.***

Over time, factors influencing this placement include networking, securing employment, credentials, and location.

Prescott has the highest average earnings in the state. The average annual salary here is $54,939, ahead of Glendale’s $54,158.

Completing the top 3 is Tempe, where bookkeepers earn an average annual salary of $49,670.