Where to Find Accounting Classes

Once you've decided to enroll in an accounting class, it's essential to consider the various options available to you. Accounting is a critical field in business and finance, and numerous programs and schools exist to help individuals learn accounting, whether for professional advancement or personal development. Each type of program offers its benefits and limitations, so understanding the differences between these options is crucial to making the best choice for your learning goals.

Noble Desktop and other professional training centers

Noble Desktop offers a range of professional training options, and their "Classes Near Me" tool is an excellent resource for comparing different training centers and certificate-granting programs. This tool allows you to explore a variety of courses, from beginner-friendly classes to advanced programs, catering to those looking to improve their personal finances and those pursuing a career in accounting. While classes offered through training centers are typically shorter than degree programs, they may not provide the same depth of knowledge. However, these courses focus on practical skills that students can immediately apply, making them ideal for individuals looking to quickly pivot into a new career or enhance their current skill set.

Colleges and Universities

If you have ample time and financial resources and aim to achieve a high level of expertise in accounting, you might consider pursuing a bachelor’s or master's degree in accounting. These degrees typically span about two to four years, longer than a bootcamp or certificate program. Tuition can range from $10,000 - $60,000 per year, which is often significantly more expensive than bootcamps. Other requirements, including a minimum GPA and standardized test scores for college admission, can be a barrier for some students. Degree programs include experienced faculty who often have significant academic and professional backgrounds. One of the most notable benefits of earning an accounting degree is that it is usually essential for those seeking professional certifications like the CPA. However, many accounting careers do not require licensure, so a CPA certification may not be necessary to pursue. 

Coursera, Udemy, and other on-demand platforms

Self-paced classes on platforms like Coursera and Udemy offer a flexible and accessible way to learn accounting skills, making them ideal for individuals who need to fit their studies around other commitments. These courses allow learners to progress at their own pace, with the freedom to revisit materials and study from anywhere. They are particularly beneficial for those looking to dip their toes into basic, introductory accounting concepts or for professionals seeking to enhance specific skills without a significant time or financial commitment.

However, self-paced classes lack the structured, immersive experience of bootcamps and degree programs, which can provide more comprehensive training and immediate feedback. As such, while these courses are excellent for building foundational knowledge and exploring interest in the field, they may not offer the depth or hands-on application needed for more advanced accounting skills or career advancement. Self-paced classes are best suited for independent learners who are self-motivated and disciplined but may not be ideal for those who thrive on scheduled deadlines and interactive, real-time guidance.

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships in accounting are a rare but valuable opportunity for those looking to gain in-demand skills through on-the-job learning. An apprenticeship involves working alongside experienced professionals in the field, providing practical, hands-on experience while often costing little to no money. These programs are similar to a job requiring a significant time commitment but may only sometimes offer fair compensation for the work performed. While apprenticeships provide excellent real-world experience, they usually require some foundational knowledge of accounting, making them less suitable for absolute beginners. 

YouTube and other free resources

Learning accounting skills through YouTube and other free resources offers vast content, from fundamental lessons for beginners to in-depth discussions of advanced principles. These resources are highly accessible and can provide a solid introduction to accounting concepts at no cost. However, they often lack the depth of structured knowledge found in formal courses and do not provide real-time interaction or feedback from instructors and peers. While these free resources are excellent for supplementing learning or exploring basic accounting skills, they should not be relied upon as the primary source of education, especially for more comprehensive or advanced training. They are best used to enhance understanding alongside more structured educational programs.