Bookkeeping Schools in California

Bookkeepers help businesses run smoothly by providing a detailed record of financial reports, budget, payroll, and possible discrepancies. Individuals with a passion for numbers and data can always do well with a bookkeeping career.

California residents who would like to enter this profession may do so through several avenues, all of which we explore in rigorous detail below. Interested individuals will understand what to keep in mind when it comes to foundational requirements, training destinations, and job applications.

They will also understand the possible annual average salary to expect and the factors to leverage for career growth.

How to Become a Bookkeeper in California

The following are the necessary steps to become a bookkeeper in California.

Basic Requirements

Naturally, proper education is essential when it comes to starting a bookkeeping career in California. However, candidates typically have to start not with higher education, but with a high school degree or equivalent.

This is as necessary for candidates who would like to receive training “on the job" as it is for those who would like to complete a post-secondary program.

Completing a Post-Secondary Program

Completing a post-secondary program is not an absolute requirement for prospective bookkeepers. However, many professionals in the field still choose to begin their careers this way, thanks to the advantages that such a program offers.

Those who choose this route will earn a certificate or an associate’s degree. They will also learn in a structured environment with hands-on learning resources and opportunities to build a strong network.

It is also possible to complete an online program for convenience. Most bookkeeping training programs can be completed in as little as 9 months.

On-the-Job Education

Bookkeepers need on-the-job training to consolidate their academic education. This is the only way they can build the necessary confidence to carry out their duties alone without supervision in an actual work environment.

Such opportunities can be obtained from establishments willing to provide apprenticeship or internship opportunities.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become a travel agent in California

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Certification is not compulsory for bookkeepers in California, but it is very beneficial. Even those who work as freelancers will still enjoy many benefits from becoming certified, as potential clients will consider them more credible.

For candidates interested in only pursuing reputable certification, the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) offers the title of Certified Bookkeeper for those with at least two years of experience.

The National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers also offers a credential with the same designation that is equally as reputable. Individuals pursuing certification must be prepared to pass a professional examination and commit to the organization’s code of ethics.

Top Bookkeeping Schools in California

The schools below offer amazing training programs for prospective bookkeepers in California.

Explore bookkeeping Schools in California by city:

• Bookkeeping schools in Los Angeles

Salary & Career Outlook

As with most professions, most bookkeepers in California will be among the lowest or median earners at the beginning of their careers. Subsequently, they can work on optimizable factors to improve their earnings and be among the top 10%.

Currently, the bottom 10% make an annual average salary of $40,054, the median category makes an annual average salary of $53,902, and the top 10% make an annual average salary of $72,537.

The optimizable factors to improve earnings in this field include experience, location, establishment of employment, and professional credentials. Petaluma has the highest annual average salary for bookkeepers in California, thanks to a $75,000 figure.

It is followed by San Pedro and Covina, where bookkeepers manage annual average salaries of $62,807 and $61,346, respectively.