Five Myths About Accounting
For those who don't understand it, accounting can come across as a boring profession. Those who have studied a Bachelor of Accounting know that this is far from the truth. In the interests of busting these career stereotypes, we thought we'd put together some of the most common myths about accounting and the truth behind them. That way, if you're considering studying an accounting degree in South Africa, you have all the facts.
1) Every accountant must have strong maths skills
Thankfully, this one isn’t true. Whilst you do need to be relatively proficient with numbers, you can rely on the likes of excel and accounting software to apply the equations and automatically generate those calculations. What you do need, however, is a strong understanding of the rules of accounting so that you know how to apply and when.
2) Accounting is a boring profession
It might be an age-old profession but the fact that it's still relevant today shows that it's anything but dull. It's actually grown in leaps and bounds and evolved along the way to harness the power of technology. This has brought the profession into the modern age and there's no sign of it exiting any time soon.
3) It's only numbers and tax calculations
Again, this one is false. Just think about forensic accountants who work alongside the justice system to convict those guilty of fraud, tax evasion and embezzlement. For those who've always enjoyed playing detective, it's a thrilling path to pursue after completing a Bachelor of Accounting degree.
4) It's only a desk job
Another misconception is that accountants are bound to a desk all day and work long hours. Whilst the hours will depend on the nature of the company you work for, the office isn't only in one place. As an accountant on audit, your work can take you to some incredible places. Think countrywide and even international travel. Who says you can't mix business with pleasure?
5) Accountants aren't exciting people
People are not their professions. There, we said it. There's zero evidence to suggest that accountants are boring. If you have any friends who are good at accounting, you'll know that this one holds no weight at all. Remember, behind every person's professional persona, you'll find other interests, their loved ones and even the dynamics of their social lives. If you're wanting to become an accountant, here's your chance to prove this myth wrong.
It all adds up at the IIE's Varsity College
For those wanting an added advantage on their way to the top, our new world thinking approach to education gives you problem solving and critical thinking skills that help you stand out with employers. When you're prepared for the challenges of any working world, there's no way you can't come out on top. For more on the IIE Bachelor of Accounting and why it's one of the most popular IIE qualifications at The IIE's Varsity College, please click here
Varsity College is a brand of The Independent Institute of Education (The IIE).