Bookkeeping Schools in Michigan

Even though the steps to become a bookkeeper in Michigan are straightforward, candidates will have a better chance of favorable outcomes if they take the time to analyze and optimize their approach as early as possible. This is why we have broken down everything that an interested individual in the state needs to know to become a successful bookkeeper below.

Those who complete the guide will fully understand what to do when it comes to education preparation and which specific training programs to pursue. They will also understand how long they can expect to spend in training and what license and certification steps they may leverage for better career opportunities.

How to Become a Bookkeeper in Michigan

The following considerations are necessary to become a bookkeeper in Michigan.

Having a High School Diploma or GED

Bookkeepers can choose to enter the profession either by securing a training opportunity at an actual financial establishment or going through an academic program first. However, regardless of their choice in this regard, having a high school diploma or GED is usually a common requirement to secure entry into a training position.

Acquiring Comprehensive Training

As mentioned above, prospective bookkeepers can receive training either in an establishment willing to offer “on-the-job” training and associate roles or in a training program. These steps aim to ensure that candidates know everything they need to know about technical and professional requirements.

It’s also common for candidates to combine both approaches instead of selecting only one. For example, they may first complete an academic training program and then secure an internship position to cultivate real-world proficiency.

Some training programs offered by academic institutions take place online.

Certification & Employment

Certification can be very valuable for a fresh bookkeeper as it gives them credibility while indicating commitment to the field. Candidates may then secure employment leveraging their expertise and credentials.

After working for a while, bookkeepers often pursue more advanced roles, such as becoming Certified Public Accountants.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become a home and building inspector in Michigan

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Two reputable organizations for bookkeepers, the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers and the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers, offer candidates the opportunity to receive the Certified Bookkeeper designation in Michigan.

The process to become certified by either organization is pretty similar. The main requirements are two years of work experience and a passing score on a professional examination. Those who are certified are also expected to commit to a certain code of ethics.

For those who have completed an online program, it is common to pursue the Uniform Bookkeeper Certification examination to become a Certified Public Bookkeeper.

Top Bookkeeping Schools in Michigan

These are some of the top training programs for future bookkeepers in Michigan.

Explore bookkeeping Schools in Michigan by city:

• Bookkeeping schools in Detroit

Salary & Career Outlook

The annual average salary of a bookkeeper in Michigan can be $30,423 when they are just starting, in which case they can find themselves among the bottom 10%. The same professionals can manage an annual average salary of $43,727 when they fall among the median earners, which is the most common category, and ultimately an annual average salary of $62,848 if they finally find themselves among the top 10% in the state.

Experience, location, and professional credentials can help candidates move rapidly from a lower salary category to a higher one.

When it comes to prominent locations to consider, Farmington Hills is where bookkeepers manage the highest annual average salary in Michigan, with a figure of $56,085. Those who work in Lansing make an annual average salary of $51,147, while professionals in Troy end the year with a salary of around $49,518.