Computerized Accounting

Computerized accounting is an accounting position in which an individual uses his or her accounting and computer knowledge to perform the basic accounting tasks that a small business needs to perform on a regular basis. (It is important to note that the term “computerized accounting” is sometimes used interchangeably with the term “accounting information systems,” but computerized accounting is usually related to a smaller company using computer systems and software that other individuals designed, while accounting information systems are usually related to the actual design and installation of a system that a larger company would use.) More and more accounting programs are offering courses in this area.

Computer accountants use computer software to calculate taxes; conduct audits; maintain databases; maintain inventory records; record the receipts and invoices from an organization’s financial transactions; update payroll records; and perform other similar tasks . Individuals who specialize in computerized accounting may work in almost any industry, and there are a number of different positions that individuals in this accounting subfield can fill.

Some of the most common positions for individuals with a computerized accounting specialty include accountant, bookkeeper, bookkeeping clerk, financial analyst, financial manager, internal auditor, and payroll administrator.

The specific degree that an individual must have to obtain a position in computerized accounting varies from position to position. However, many employers require an individual to have one of the following:

  • a certificate in computerized accounting,
  • an Associate’s Degree in Accounting Information Systems or computerized accounting,
  • a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting Information Systems,
  • a bachelor’s degree in computer science with an accounting certificate, or
  • another similar degree from an accredited accounting school.

Some employers may also require an individual to obtain a certification, or in some cases, multiple certifications for the accounting specialty or accounting specialties in which the individual is planning to work. (For example, a payroll administrator may need to obtain the Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certificate for some positions.) A degree is not required for every position, however, and there are some computerized accounting positions that require have only a high school diploma, a General Educational Development (GED) credential, and/or experience in a related field, such as accounting, computer science, etc.