Bookkeeping Schools in Arkansas

Bookkeepers play a vital role in the success of businesses nationwide. They leverage data and analytics to help businesses plan resource allocation and optimize their overall strategy.

Residents of Arkansas can start successful bookkeeping careers in several ways. Below, we analyze the most popular and effective approach adopted by professionals across the state.

These include the types of educational arrangements to consider, licensing and certification requirements, average annual salaries, and top programs.

How to Become a Bookkeeper in Arkansas

The following framework has been widely adopted by successful bookkeepers in Arkansas when launching their careers.

Basic Requirements

Arkansas itself does not have stringent requirements for prospective bookkeepers. Individuals can prepare for training by developing soft skills, including proficiency with numbers, organization, analysis, and critical thinking.

A high school diploma or GED will also help students gain admission to top programs.

Completing a Formal Program

The top training programs for bookkeepers in Arkansas are not necessarily structured as campus-based, in-person programs. Many community colleges and technical institutions offer online, self-guided programs that allow students to learn with minimal commitment.

Candidates can also go for programs that offer associate degrees, certificates, or diplomas. They can enroll in non-credit courses designed specifically for workforce readiness and certification.

We cover some of the top options in an upcoming section.

Job Placement and Career Opportunities

Individuals can apply for bookkeeping positions after completing appropriate training. They can work for small businesses, large companies, or as freelancers.

With the right experience, you can pursue career opportunities as a bookkeeper through continuing education and certification.

Further education can help professionals secure placement as business administrators or accountants. We cover certification options and strategies below.

Explore trades with similar paths:

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

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Arkansas has no requirements for bookkeepers to obtain a state license. Most of the focus after education is on certification.

Certification can help candidates stand out, secure employment faster, and access networking and continuing education opportunities. One of the most popular certifying bodies for bookkeepers in Arkansas is the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers.

As with any profession, individuals pursuing AIPB certification must register and complete the examination process. Those who successfully pass their credentialing exam will become certified bookkeepers and maintain their credentials through continuing education.

Top Bookkeeping Schools in Arkansas

Individuals in Arkansas can receive robust bookkeeping education from any of the following institutions.

Explore bookkeeping Schools in Arkansas by city:

• Bookkeeping schools in Little Rock

Salary & Career Outlook

The average annual salary for bookkeepers in Arkansas can be broken down into three main categories. The most popular category is the median bracket.

The average annual salary for bookkeepers in this range is approximately $38,816, according to Indeed. Individuals who are among the top 10% can make an annual average salary of $51,126, while those who are among the bottom 10% can make an annual average salary of $29,470.

Candidates can improve their annual earnings by focusing on factors such as experience, location, networking, professional credentials, and job stability.

The top locations for bookkeepers in Arkansas, based on average annual earnings, are North Little Rock ($44,610), Conway ($44,403), and Fayetteville ($41,609).