Member Avatar for coolbeanbob

Hello all,

I am 28 years old and have about 4 years experience as an accountant. I am currently enrolled at a local university taking two intro computer science courses. I am curious as to what opportunities might be available given my accounting background.

According to my academic advisor I will be eligible to enroll in their M.S. of Computer Science program after completing eight core c.s. classes (btw this is a reputable state school in my city).

I have not decided how far I want to take the computer science degree/career. I figure the spectrum is anything from becoming a business analyst to a software engineer.

I guess my plan to date is to continue with taking the C.S. courses and try to make the switch to a business analyst. Then continue with classes if I choose to do so.

Does this sound reasonable? I would like to hear your thoughts on what educational requirements and alternatives are out there.

Thank you.

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Dani AI

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Given 's background (four years in accounting and starting CS coursework), the plan to finish core CS prerequisites and aim for a business-analyst or accounting-focused developer role before committing to an MS is sensible. Accounting domain knowledge is a real differentiator: it shortens onboarding with finance teams and makes technical work (requirements, validation, testing) much more effective.

Prioritize classes and skills that pay off quickly for both industry and an eventual MS:

  1. Data Structures & Algorithms — critical for technical interviews and problem solving.
  2. Databases (SQL, transactions, schema design) — essential for financial systems.
  3. Software Engineering/Systems Design — version control, testing, architecture.
  4. Programming (pick one main language: Python, Java, or C#) plus scripting for automation.
  5. Discrete Math / Foundations and one systems course (OS or architecture).
    Also learn Git, unit testing, Excel automation (macros or Python/pandas), and the basics of ERP/accounting packages so domain vocabulary is second nature.

Concrete steps to get a foot in the door (build evidence, not just transcripts):

  • Build 2–4 small portfolio projects that solve real accounting tasks: bank reconciliation automation, CSV/GL import-and-validate tool, or a P&L drill-down web page. Metrics matter (time saved, error reduction).
  • Do one pro bono/low-fee project for a local bookkeeping firm or volunteer to automate internal reports — that experience shows impact.
  • Target roles where domain knowledge is prized: implementation consultant at an ERP/vendor, business analyst in a finance team, or developer at a mid-sized accounting software shop. Tailor resumes to show outcomes, not just coursework.

On the MS question: an MS signals deeper CS capability (algorithms, systems) and helps for competitive SWE or research roles, but for many accounting-focused engineering or analyst roles, portfolio + domain experience often wins. Continuing the eight prerequisites while doing projects and short consulting work is a pragmatic path; ’s note about combining CPA and CS study illustrates how domain credentials amplify technical credentials.

Recommended Answers

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Member Avatar for Kimpl

I'm not an accountant myself, although I'm a programmer and both my parents are accountants, my father owning his own firm.

I am yet to code any software that is related to any accounting processes but in the past me and dad have both spoken about ideas for software that would help out his company.

I don't know if it interests you, but that could be an opportunity: developing custom software solutions for accounting firms and so on..

Member Avatar for coolbeanbob

I have a friend that is in IT and has said there is a strong job outlook for people to develop accounting applications. He said there aren't enough developers that understand accounting. I would be interested in this. Just not sure what level of schooling/certificates are needed and how to get my foot in the door. Not even sure where to get my foot in the door. I think it would be great to work for a consulting firm that develops these types of programs. I am not up to speed on the IT employment industry. I assume there are companies that provide customized software to businesses? Do the large accounting firms offer these services?

Member Avatar for Kimpl

I'm sure there are companies that specialise in accounting sulutions, I don't know any though sorry. One thing I can recommend doing is constantly checking on freelancer.com for accounting projects and have a go at programming these projects by yourself just to see if you can do it. Once you feel confident in your skills you could start trying to find work with companies or by freelancing.. Best of luck.

Member Avatar for ORIGIN

CoolBeanBob - Hi. I was originally named CPA2CompSci and you responded to my thread two years ago. I have since updated it (noted at the top of your thread). I am interested to get an update as to your progress. I am finishing a masters program in computer science now. I hold a CPA license and hope that this with my prior accounting experience will put me in a good position to find accounting programming gigs. Email me at bornoutofseason@gmail.com. Thanks ...

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