Finding the Right Accounting Association to Elevate Your Career

Professional accounting associations play a crucial role in supporting accountants, finance professionals, and students. Whether you're looking to expand your expertise, connect with peers, or stay updated on industry trends, joining the right association can provide significant career benefits.

Keep reading to learn more about these advantages and to get an introduction to some of the top accounting organizations to consider.

Benefits of Joining an Accounting Association

Becoming a member of a professional accounting association can provide numerous career advantages, from skill development to networking opportunities. Here are some key benefits:

• Career advancement: Many associations offer certifications, continuing education and training programs that can enhance your skills and increase your marketability.
• Networking opportunities: Connecting with fellow professionals, industry leaders and potential employers through events, conferences and online forums can open doors to new job prospects.
• Access to industry insights: Stay up to date with the latest trends, regulations and best practices in accounting and finance through association resources like webinars, whitepapers and journals.
• Professional credibility: Membership in a well-regarded association demonstrates your commitment to ethical standards, professional growth and industry excellence.
• Mentorship and support: Many organizations provide mentorship programs, career coaching and peer support to help members navigate career transitions and challenges.
• Exclusive job opportunities: Some associations offer job boards, career fairs and employer connections that can help you find new opportunities in your field.

Whether you're a student, CPA, or financial executive, joining an accounting association can be a valuable investment in your career development.

Ten Popular Accounting Organizations to Consider

The advantages of joining a professional accounting association are hard to refute. But which one is right for you? Learn more about these top organizations to narrow down your options.

1. American Institute of CPAs (AICPA)

The AICPA is the largest accounting association worldwide, with over 597,000 members across 188 countries. It sets ethical and auditing standards for private, public, and nonprofit organizations. AICPA also develops and administers the Uniform CPA Examination and offers specialty credentials in forensic accounting, business valuation, and personal financial planning.

2. American Accounting Association (AAA)

Founded in 1916, the AAA is the leading organization for accounting educators, researchers and professionals. This association helps shape the future of accounting through research, networking opportunities and education programs.

3. National Society of Accountants (NSA)

The NSA is unique in that it serves both tax and accounting professionals. It provides educational resources, networking opportunities and certifications specifically designed for small accounting firms and independent professionals.

4. Institute of Management Accountants (IMA)

With a global membership exceeding 80,000, the IMA supports professionals in management accounting and financial decision-making. The association provides access to tools for career advancement and an international peer network. Earning the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) designation through IMA can significantly boost career prospects.

5. Beta Alpha Psi (BAP) (Student Organization)

Established in 1919, Beta Alpha Psi is an honor organization for financial students and professionals. With more than 300 chapters across college campuses, it recognizes and encourages academic and professional excellence in accounting and business information.

6. American Association of Finance & Accounting (AAFA)

Founded in 1978, the AAFA is an alliance of executive search firms specializing in placing finance and accounting professionals. It has more than 35 offices nationwide and connects professionals with top-tier career opportunities.

7. Accounting and Financial Women’s Alliance (AFWA)

Since 1938, the AFWA has worked to advance women in the accounting and finance industries. It provides professional development opportunities, leadership training and networking support for women looking to grow their careers.

8. Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA)

Formed in 1941, the IIA serves internal auditors working in risk management, internal controls, governance, IT auditing and security. It offers certifications such as the Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) credential to help professionals enhance their expertise.

9. National Association of Black Accountants (NABA)

Representing over 200,000 professionals of color, NABA focuses on career advancement, educational opportunities, and leadership development. It offers meaningful networking connections for professionals in finance, consulting, high-tech and related business fields.

10. Association for Financial Professionals (AFP)

The AFP represents corporate finance executives globally and administers the Certified Treasury Professional (CTP) and Certified Corporate FP&A Professional credentials. The AFP Annual Conference is one of the largest networking events for finance professionals worldwide.

Advance Your Accounting Career

Choosing the right accounting association can provide access to job opportunities, continuing education, and a supportive professional network. For accountants seeking leadership roles and specialized credentials, an online master's degree in accounting offers the advanced knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the profession.

The University of Scranton's Master of Accountancy (MAcc) program offers flexible online learning, emphasizing ethical leadership and analytical skills. Specializations in forensic accounting and accounting analytics enhance career opportunities, while CPA exam prep resources help graduates succeed in the field.

Learn more about the on-campus and online master’s degree in accounting today!