Rhode Island is a wonderful place to work as a bookkeeper, not only because of its minimal, stringent regulations but also because of the presence of remarkable training institutions. The guide below introduces interested individuals in the state to everything they need to know to start their careers the right way.
We begin with a detailed analysis of attributes, preparatory steps, educational options, and training opportunities. We then analyze the licensing and certification options for career growth, followed by a concise list of unique training programs for future bookkeepers in the state.
Finally, we analyze how much bookkeepers earn in Rhode Island and how they can increase their annual income.
How to Become a Bookkeeper in Rhode Island
All of the steps below are crucial for launching a successful bookkeeping career in Rhode Island.
Step 1: Completing a Training Program
The most convenient way to build technical proficiency as a prospective bookkeeper in Rhode Island is to complete a training program. Candidates can do this by attending one of the many community colleges or technical schools with strong programs in business administration or accounting.
Completing these programs can lead to valuable academic awards, helping students secure employment at top organizations and earn certifications.
Step 2: On-the-Job Practice
After completing academic training, candidates may want to refine their practical skills through an internship. Not only does this help them settle into a work environment more easily, but it also provides an opportunity to transition from an internship to a full-time position.
Those who don’t want to attend an academic institution at all can build technical proficiency by learning on the job.
Step 3: Certification & Job Placement
Bookkeepers can significantly enhance their credibility and demonstrate their skills to employers by earning certification. Some of the most sought-after professionals in the field are certified.
Below, we discuss certification further.
It is also worth noting that bookkeepers can work as accounts receivable and accounts payable clerks, payroll specialists, and accounting assistants, among other roles.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
Rhode Island has no law requiring certification or licensure for those entering the profession. Employers set the qualifications they want in a professional, and many value certification.
Certification can also be an excellent platform for other professional opportunities, like networking and continuing education. Both the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) and the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB) are respected and recognized nationwide.
Professionals must complete the registration process, pay the required fees, and pass a certification examination to earn these credentials.
Top Bookkeeping Schools in Rhode Island
The following are the most popular places to study as a prospective bookkeeper in Rhode Island.
Community College of Rhode Island
Online, RI Online Only
CCRI is one of Rhode Island's top post-secondary institutions. The school also offers an online training program for future bookkeepers.
Tuition
$3,130 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
Rhode Island College
Providence, RI Campus Only
Rhode Island College offers another top-class training program for prospective bookkeepers in Rhode Island. Participants in this program will learn from seasoned instructors, acquire technical skills, and prepare for certification.
Tuition
$397 - $980 per CreditContact
(800) 669-5760
mvallejo@ric.edu
Roger Williams University
Providence, RI Campus Only
Finally, Roger Williams University offers an online training program for prospective bookkeepers that can be completed in 13 weeks. The program covers accounting principles and QuickBooks.
Tuition
$1,764 per CreditContact
(401) 254-3838
ext@rwu.edu
Explore bookkeeping Schools in Rhode Island by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
The average annual salary for a bookkeeper in Rhode Island depends on experience level and location. It will also be influenced by their credentials, employers, and other key factors.
Most bookkeepers earn at the median, with an average annual salary of $49,474 according to Indeed. Some will be in the bottom 10%, earning an average annual salary of $37,364, while others will be in the top 10%, earning an average annual salary of $65,509.
By location, the cities with the highest average annual salaries for bookkeepers in Rhode Island are Newport ($52,054), North Providence ($51,673), and Pawtucket ($51,223).




