Bookkeeping Schools in Hawaii

Hawaii is an excellent state for anyone considering a career as a bookkeeper. This is not only because candidates can easily meet employment requirements, but also because there are several excellent institutions for quality education and organizations that support career growth.

Readers will be introduced to the key steps to launch a thriving career in this field in the state. They will find sections on educational opportunities and admission requirements, top training institutions with robust programs, and certification considerations.

The final section also explores the annual average salary ranges for bookkeepers in Hawaii.

How to Become a Bookkeeper in Hawaii

Below are the most important steps to consider when starting a bookkeeping career in Hawaii.

Step 1: Formal Education

There is no law requiring prospective bookkeepers in Hawaii to attend a campus-based bookkeeping program. They can choose to enroll in online programs to prepare for their roles and certifications.

Additionally, candidates may pursue programs that are not designated as bookkeeping programs but rather as business administration or accounting programs. These programs can offer diplomas, certificates, associate degrees, and more.

During their training, students will develop technical proficiency and ideally prepare for certification.

Step 2: Practical Skills

Hawaii bookkeepers are usually adept at theoretical and practical skills. Although candidates can build both skills in training programs by working with simulated data, it is important to transition to a real-world work environment through an internship.

This will allow students to work with actual real-world data without the pressure of being a full-time staff member so early. It is also possible to work briefly as a freelancer for the same objective.

Step 3: Employment

With strong technical skills and transferable attributes such as problem-solving, analytical thinking, and effective communication, candidates should be able to secure direct employment as bookkeepers. Those who demand absolute flexibility may also work fully as freelancers.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become a travel agent in Hawaii

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Becoming a certified bookkeeper in Hawaii offers several professional benefits. For one, it enhances credibility and sets professionals apart.

Certification is also crucial for career growth, as it opens the door to higher-level roles with greater earning potential. Candidates who want to become certified bookkeepers in Hawaii can do so by earning credentials from the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB).

While the AIPB Certified Bookkeeper credential is highly respected and popular nationwide, it is not the only credential to consider. The National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers is another organization that offers a highly rated credential.

Top Bookkeeping Schools in Hawaii

The institutions below offer robust training programs for prospective bookkeepers in Hawaii.

Explore bookkeeping Schools in Hawaii by city:

• Bookkeeping schools in Honolulu

Salary & Career Outlook

In Hawaii, a professional bookkeeper will earn an annual average salary ranging from $45,137 to $69,749. Those who earn around the first figure typically fall within the bottom 10%.

Professionals in the other extreme category are considered to be in the top 10% bracket. However, most bookkeepers in Hawaii will not be among the top or bottom earners.

They will fall in the middle, earning an average annual salary of approximately $56,109 according to Indeed. Factors that can help candidates improve their annual numbers include experience, location, networking, and professional credentials.

The top locations currently are Kīhei ($61,287), Lahaina ($60,812), and Kailua-Kona ($58,003).