Bookkeepers in New Jersey play a crucial role in ensuring businesses have a strong grasp of their finances. This, in turn, encourages effective allocation and management.
The following guide covers everything an interested individual needs to know to become a successful bookkeeper in New Jersey. It analyzes the foundational steps and admission requirements, as well as possible training arrangements.
Readers will also learn how to improve their career prospects, including through certification and continuing education. After providing a list of the top programs to consider, the guide concludes with the average annual salaries candidates can expect over their careers.
How to Become a Bookkeeper in New Jersey
The following steps are needed to become a bookkeeper in New Jersey.
Basic Requirements
Employers usually set the major requirements for prospective bookkeepers in New Jersey. Most employers require at least a high school diploma or a GED.
Candidates pursuing advanced degrees are also expected to hold one of these credentials to secure admission to top programs.
Attending a Bookkeeping Program
Bookkeeping programs are essential for producing professionals who are not only technically proficient but also ready for the job. A candidate can choose an online certified bookkeeping program to complete their training as conveniently and flexibly as possible.
Like traditional campus-based programs, online programs are also critical for preparing for certification. After completing the theoretical part of their training, candidates may need to consolidate their learning through real-world practice.
Real-World Experience & Employment
Although individuals with academic skills can immediately secure employment, candidates can significantly boost their long-term career success by first completing an internship. This will enable them to adapt easily to real-world environments and seamlessly transfer their skills from academic training to real-world data.
Candidates can also take on some freelance gigs to achieve the same objectives. From there, they can update their resume and then secure a full-time, professional placement.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
New Jersey has no licensing requirements for bookkeepers. There are no agencies or organizations that candidates must register with before they can start working professionally.
Usually, employers set requirements, and their primary focus for prospective employees is education and certification.
Certification is important because it demonstrates professionalism and commitment. It also allows candidates to confirm they possess the required skills for the job.
The American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) is the leading certifying body for bookkeepers in New Jersey and nationwide. Candidates must pass a professional examination before receiving the AIPB Certified Bookkeeper credential.
Top Bookkeeping Schools in New Jersey
Below are some institutions with amazing bookkeeping programs in New Jersey.
New Jersey City University
Online, NJ Online Only
New Jersey City University offers an online Professional Bookkeeping with QuickBooks program designed for students seeking practical bookkeeping skills and proficiency with QuickBooks. The curriculum covers essential accounting procedures, QuickBooks, and payroll practices, providing learners with a well-rounded entry point into the field.
Tuition
$3,999 - $4,671 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
Bergen Community College
Online, NJ Online Only
Bergen Community College provides an online Certified Bookkeeper training program that delivers 140 hours of structured instruction and includes the cost of the AIPB certification exam. Students explore key accounting concepts, including depreciation, inventory management, payroll, correcting accounting errors, and adjusting entries.
Tuition
$2,370 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
Rowan University
Online, NJ Online Only
Rowan University offers a flexible online bookkeeping program through its College of Professional and Continuing Education, featuring open enrollment for year-round access. Students complete 210 hours of comprehensive training that covers foundational accounting principles, data entry, error correction, depreciation, internal controls, and fraud prevention.
Tuition
$3,130 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
Explore bookkeeping Schools in New Jersey by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
The annual average salary for bookkeepers in New Jersey is approximately $49,711, according to Indeed, for those in the median bracket. The figure rises to $67,238 for the top 10% and falls to $36,753 for the bottom 10%.
Factors such as experience and location are crucial in determining where candidates are within these ranges. Professional credentials, networking, and business strategy are also crucial.
Regarding location, bookkeepers in Hackensack earn the highest average annual salary in New Jersey at $65,645. They are followed at the top by Paramus, where professionals earn an average annual salary of $65,587, and Toms River, with an average annual salary of $51,929.




