Understanding what to do as a prospective bookkeeper in Montana is great to ensure a favorable outcome. However, just as importantly, candidates must also understand what not to do and what steps to take to optimize for a long-lasting career.
The guide below explores the major requirements and considerations for starting a bookkeeping career in Montana, and those with a long-term mindset. We provide guidance on preparing for training, selecting programs for career growth, and pursuing certifications and professional credentials.
Readers will also understand the general earning potential for bookkeepers in Montana and how professionals in this field can rapidly increase their annual returns.
How to Become a Bookkeeper in Montana
Below is a general framework for launching a bookkeeping career in Montana, with growth in mind.
Soft Skills & Preparation
Even before enrolling in a training program, candidates must ensure they are well prepared with transferable skills and high school documents. Many programs require applicants to have a high school diploma or a GED equivalent.
Soft skills such as analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication are also crucial in this profession.
Formal Academic Education
Formal academic education for prospective bookkeepers in Montana is available in several ways. For instance, candidates seeking fast, convenient education can complete an online program through self-guided learning.
On the other hand, those who want immersive on-campus learning can choose in-person programs. Campus-based programs tend to lead to short-term certificates, long-term certificates, or associate degrees.
One upcoming section highlights the best training programs to consider for aspiring bookkeepers in Montana.
Certification & Employment
Those who are properly trained can qualify for certification as bookkeepers in Montana. Below, we explore various certification organizations and the steps required to obtain certification.
Finally, professionals can leverage their education and certification to secure employment as fully qualified bookkeepers.
Career Growth
The journey of a bookkeeper doesn’t end upon securing employment. Candidates may leverage continuing education and certifications to take on more robust roles, improve their annual returns, and even work as accountants in some capacity.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
Licensing is not required for bookkeepers in Montana. Certification is optional, but it gives professionals a strong edge, so most choose to become certified.
And, of course, this puts those who are not certified at a significant disadvantage. To become certified, professionals must select a credentialing body.
The National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB) and the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) remain the most respected certification providers nationwide. Those who have completed a training program can sit for the certification exam.
Top Bookkeeper Schools in Montana
All of the institutions below boast comprehensive training programs for future bookkeepers in Montana.
Gallatin College
Bozeman, MT Campus Only
Gallatin College in Bozeman remains one of Montana's most prominent institutions, with a robust bookkeeping program. The school offers students the option to study entirely online, preparing them for the workforce and for the certification examination offered by the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers.
Tuition
$123 - $486 per CreditContact
(406) 994-5536
gallatincollege@montana.edu
University of Montana Bitterroot College
Online, MT Online Only
University of Montana Bitterroot College is another respectable institution in Montana with an online, convenient bookkeeping program. This program is always open for enrollment, allowing candidates to start learning whenever they are ready.
Tuition
$2,794 - $3,045 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
University of Montana Western
Online, MT Online Only
Finally, the University of Montana Western School of Outreach offers another flexible training program to launch a successful bookkeeping career in Montana. This program is suitable for those with a few years of work experience who want academic training to prepare for certification.
Tuition
$2,370 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
Explore bookkeeping Schools in Montana by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
The average annual salary for bookkeepers in Montana can be divided into three categories for clarity. We have the top 10%, the bottom 10%, and the median earners.
A survey on Indeed.com showed the annual average salary for the bottom 10% to be around $30,885, the annual average salary for the top 10% to be around $63,177, and the annual average salary for the median earners to be around $44,173.
Generally, candidates in the top categories are there because they have more experience, work in better locations, and hold professional credentials, among other factors.
The highest average salaries for bookkeepers in Montana, by location, are in Whitefish and Hamilton, ranked first and second, respectively. Bookkeepers here earn an average annual salary of $53,634 and $51,908, respectively.
Bookkeepers in Bozeman earn an annual average salary of $48,031.
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