With expertise in curriculum development, business systems, and instructional leadership, she is dedicated to promoting learning and development. AIPB’s Self-Study Certified Bookkeeper (CB) Prep Course (online ebooks or softcover workbooks)Prepare for the national certification exam by going through the 6 self-study CB workbooks. Certification registration fee, 6 workbooks and Prometric Test Center fees not included.
Best Bookkeeping Certificates
Bookkeeping certifications are not always required, but they can be very useful for demonstrating field expertise. Since certifications often come packaged with training courses, they’re also an effective way for professionals to pick up new skills and knowledge. Online bookkeeping courses vary in length, with some taking days and others lasting for weeks. For example, in our list of the best bookkeeping certification training courses, the shortest program takes just two days and the longest is spread over 21 weeks.
Accountant Certification Programs
Adding this certification to your resume can help you stand out in a competitive job market. One course at the end of the program targets certification prep only, providing an in-depth review of covered topics and their application to the certification exam. Helene K. Liatsos is business advisor and retained earnings QuickBooks Certified Advisor with more than 25 years of experience. She consults for a range of companies, from travel agencies to startups.
Should You Take Bookkeeping Courses Online?
- In addition to lessons, the course fee includes workbooks and the certification exam fee.
- Any business can use a bookkeeper to help maintain its financial health.
- He began his career with Coopers & Lybrand, predecessor to PricewaterhouseCoopers, one of the “Big Four” CPA firms.
- You can also apply for financial aid to cover costs, including federal student loans, scholarships, and grants.
To maintain the credential, CPBs must apply for renewal and complete 24 hours of continuing professional education each year. Despite this, the BLS projects around 174,900 annual openings for bookkeeping, accounting and auditing clerks each year due to the need to replace workers who retire or change careers. Bookkeepers might start taking on more analytical work, which is harder to replace with automation.
Certificate programs require as little as 8-10 credits, which can take less than three months. More in-depth bookkeeping certificates require around 30 credits and take up to one year. Bookkeeping certificates introduce foundational accounting and finance knowledge. You’ll also learn how to complete bookkeeping tasks using accounting information systems and software programs. CSCC’s bookkeeping certificate features five courses covering introductory bookkeeping, payroll, Microsoft Excel, and QuickBooks.
You Get More Than a Class—You Get a Complete QBO Toolkit
Bookkeepers work in various settings, including offices and remote environments, and are responsible for maintaining financial records, handling payroll, and managing accounts. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks was $42,410 in May 2020. Many bookkeepers learn through on-the-job training, which can take up to six months to become proficient. This hands-on experience is what is a bookkeeper invaluable, as it allows you to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations and learn industry-specific practices.
Bookkeepers work in nearly every industry, for organizations big and small. Research.com has Law Firm Accounts Receivable Management ranked NACPB’s bookkeeping certification program number 1 in their 2025 Best Bookkeeping Certificate Programs. “The NACPB is an organization that provides a well-known bookkeeping certification that ensures employers of an individual’s knowledge and expertise in bookkeeping.” Bookkeeping certification is a professional credential that validates an individual’s proficiency and competence in bookkeeping practices. However, the bookkeeper’s underlying organizational skills and precise attention to detail are as valuable as ever to their employers and clients. Programs like QuickBooks® or Microsoft Excel® have widely replaced the manual entry functions of traditional bookkeeping.
Depending on your program, your certificate credits may transfer toward a degree-granting program. Your credits will more likely transfer if you choose an accredited college to earn your bookkeeping certificate. This certificate includes five courses covering accounting concepts, data management, and Microsoft Office skills. If you want to be a freelance virtual bookkeeper, you can sign up for freelance marketplace websites to connect with potential clients.
You will have one year (365 days) from enrollment in the Certified Bookkeeper course to submit the Application for Certified Bookkeeper Designation form to The American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers. Please note that you will receive two exam vouchers, as two of the four exams are no-cost exams. Detailed instructions regarding the certification application, exams, and the use of the vouchers at any Prometric Test Center are also available within the course.