Bookkeeping Schools in Virginia

The following guide outlines the steps and requirements for starting a successful career as a Bookkeeper in Virginia. We begin by analyzing how individuals can prepare for their education, the admission criteria they must meet, and the transferable skills that increase their chances of success in this field.

Then we look at specific training routes, offering an insight into their benefits and drawbacks. Afterwards, we move to the licensing and certification steps and to specific organizations that offer nationally recognized credentials.

After examining top bookkeeping training programs in Virginia and their offerings, we conclude with an overview of average annual salaries in this field.

How to Become a Bookkeeper in Virginia

Below are the requirements involved when launching a bookkeeping career in Virginia.

High School Requirements

The basic educational requirements for prospective bookkeepers in Virginia typically include a high school diploma or a GED. This is required to secure admission to most programs and may also be a qualification prospective employers look for.

Formal Training

While it is technically possible to learn the skills of a bookkeeper on the job, it is easier to secure on-the-job training if you already possess foundational skills. This is why many people first pursue a bookkeeping program at an academic institution before consolidating their education in a real-world environment.

Real-World Skills

Participating in an internship can help new bookkeepers transition into the role more smoothly. They will be able to learn from qualified professionals and gain valuable experience before moving into a fully paid position.

Candidates can also volunteer or work with family members to achieve the same objective at the early stages of their careers.

Certification & Employment

After developing the right competencies for the role, candidates can update their resumes and apply for positions. They can also improve their chances of employment and career growth significantly by pursuing certification.

We analyze this issue in more depth below.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become a medical assistant in Virginia

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Bookkeepers in Virginia don’t need a professional license to work in a professional capacity. However, they are free to pursue certification to boost their career potential.

As in most fields, employers prefer certified professionals to non-certified professionals. This is because certification is a great indicator of dedication and professional skills.

For candidates seeking certification as bookkeepers in Virginia, the Certified Bookkeeper credential from the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers is a strong option.

The institute expects applicants to demonstrate their technical skills and knowledge through a professional examination. This exam tests skills in adjustment and error correction, payroll and depreciation, and fraud prevention, among others.

Top Bookkeeping Schools in Virginia

Individuals may attend any of the programs below to start successful bookkeeping careers in Virginia.

Explore bookkeeping Schools in Virginia by city:

• Bookkeeping schools in Chesapeake

Salary & Career Outlook

A fresh bookkeeper just starting their career in Virginia will most likely find themselves in the bottom or median earning category. The figures for those in this bracket are $33,309 and $46,713, according to Indeed, respectively.

However, it is possible to earn even more in the top 10% category. The figure in this bracket is $65,511.

There are several ways for professionals to move from a low bracket to a high bracket. The most effective way is to focus on factors that can drive earnings, including location, experience, work environment, professional credentials, and networking.

In terms of location, Sterling has the highest average annual earnings at $86,371. Other places that rank highly on the list include Stafford, with an average annual salary of $75,378, and Charlottesville, with $51,694.