Entry-level accountants, particularly bookkeepers and auditing clerks, are in high demand throughout the United States.

According to O*Net Online, the online employment resource sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, employment opportunities for entry-level accounts, bookkeepers and auditing clerks within the state of Florida is expected to increase an average 10 percent in the 2008-2018 period.

Why consider an accountant career [http://accounting.everestcollege.edu/careers]? Here are some key reasons for choosing this career path:

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  Stability. Accounting is one of those "conservative professions" with little spark or sizzle but a whole lot of shelf life. All businesses need the help of accountants, either working in-house or as outside consultants. If you manage to land a full-time gig, you will likely stick around for as long as you wish as you continue to produce quality work.
  
  


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  Work environment. Most accountants tend to work in professional white-collar environments with all the amenities modern corporations have to offer. If you choose to work freelance, then you have the freedom and flexibility to work the hours you want for the clients you choose.
  
  


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  Income Potential. According to O*Net Online, the median annual wage for entry-level accountants, bookkeepers and auditing clerks in 2009 was $33,450, which meant that half of all entry-level accountants made more than that and half made less. (Your starting wage will depend on a variety of factors, including your education, experience, and local economic and labor conditions.)
  
  


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  Job Prospects. Entry-level accounting jobs are expected to have grown between 7 percent and 13 percent between 2008 and 2018, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. That's an increase of 460,400 jobs.
  
  


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  Opportunities for Advancement. Entry-level accounting work can be a first step to becoming a full-fledged certified public accountant, an opportunity that takes on considerably more responsibility and makes significantly more income.
  
  

Interested in pursuing an accounting career? Education is the first step. Many local colleges and universities offer accounting degree programs. Accounting degree programs are also offered through many online educational institutions.