In today’s fast-paced business environment, one skill remains timeless: the ability to keep accurate financial records. Bookkeeping, once viewed as a behind-the-scenes job, is now recognized as a crucial function in any organization. Whether you’re looking for a career change, returning to the workforce, or are simply starting to consider your options, enrolling in a bookkeeping program could be the key to unlocking a stable and rewarding future.
What is a bookkeeping program?
A bookkeeping program equips students with the foundational skills necessary to manage financial transactions, track income and expenses, prepare financial reports, and support the overall financial health of a business.
These programs typically cover:
- Accounting fundamentals
- Payroll processing
- Software training (QuickBooks, Excel, Sage, etc.)
- Financial statement preparation
- Tax basics and compliance
Programs can often be completed in under a year and are available at community colleges, vocational schools, and online institutions, making them flexible and accessible for learners of all backgrounds.
Career opportunities in bookkeeping
Contrary to the myth that bookkeeping is being replaced by software, the profession is evolving, not disappearing. While automation has changed how tasks are performed, skilled bookkeepers remain in high demand — especially those who can interpret data, ensure accuracy, and provide valuable insights for informed decision-making.
Here are just a few career paths available to bookkeeping graduates:
- Bookkeeper or accounting clerk
- Payroll administrator
- Accounts payable/receivable specialist
- Financial assistant
- Office manager with financial responsibilities
- Pathway to certified public accountant (CPA) or chartered professional accountant (CPA Canada)
Bookkeepers are needed across nearly every industry, from healthcare and hospitality to non-profits and tech startups. Additionally, freelance and remote opportunities are plentiful, providing flexibility and independence.
Why choose a career in bookkeeping?
Bookkeeping offers a range of benefits that make it an appealing career choice, including:
- Affordable and quick entry: Compared to many other career paths, bookkeeping programs are relatively affordable and can be completed quickly, allowing you to enter the workforce sooner.
- Flexible learning and work options: Whether you prefer part-time, remote work, or freelance contracts, bookkeeping allows for a variety of arrangements to suit your lifestyle.
- Gateway to growth: Bookkeeping can be a steppingstone to advanced accounting roles, business ownership, or financial management positions.
- In-demand tech skills: You’ll gain experience with industry-standard tools and software, making you a valuable asset in today’s digital workplace.
- Job stability: Every business needs accurate financial records. Bookkeeping is a recession-resistant career with consistent demand.
Collegiate certificate in bookkeeping
At Goodwin University, we offer a 19-credit collegiate certificate in Bookkeeping. This certificate program is designed for professionals already working in bookkeeping, as well as those beginning an entry-level role.
As you build your foundation in accounting and bookkeeping, you’ll gain hands-on experience with ledgers, journals, financial statements, and inventory accounting. You’ll explore the principles of managerial accounting and learn to navigate accounting information systems, including industry-standard software. You’ll also train with Intuit’s QuickBooks Online program. Upon completion, you’ll be prepared to sit for the Intuit QuickBooks Certified User Exam.
Best of all, if you choose to further your education, the credits earned through this certificate program can be applied toward a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Plus, for eligible SNAP recipients, this certificate program is available at no cost through Goodwin’s SNAP Employment & Training (E&T) program — making it even more accessible to those ready for a fresh start.
Here’s what a few of our Bookkeeping students have to say
Paul’s story
“My name is Paul S., and I’m originally from New York. My husband and I moved to Connecticut in 2021. We have one daughter (age 6), and last year we had our second child (a baby boy). I earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration about 10 years ago at the University at Buffalo. After college, I worked in the financial industry — my previous job was at Bank of America.
I worked a hybrid schedule, commuting from CT to NY two days a week. However, after I had my second child, I decided to resign due to the exhausting commute. I’m currently pursuing a bookkeeping certificate with the intention of contributing my skills to the new consulting business my husband and I are starting up.”
Alyssa’s story
“My name is Alyssa A., and I’m currently pursuing a bachelor’s in Business Administration at Goodwin University. As a dedicated husband and proud father of three boys, aged 4, 7, and 14, I thrive on both my professional and family responsibilities. With over 10 years of experience as a branch manager in the banking industry, I’ve honed my skills in leadership and customer service.
My passion for technology drives me to continually learn and stay updated in the field during my spare time. I also play an active role in managing the bookkeeping for my church, where I take pride in contributing to its success.
Spending time with my family is incredibly important to me, and we look forward to our annual trips to the Dominican Republic, where we enjoy time at my father’s farm. I am eager to apply what I learn in this class to further enhance my support for the church and make a positive impact.”
Robert’s story
“My name is Robert L. I am currently studying for my degree in Business Administration at Goodwin University. I am married with four boys, ages 18 to 9, and I reside in a town in the Greater Hartford Area. I enjoy spending time with my family, cooking, music production, writing poetry, and whatever else occupies my time stress-free.
My goals are to complete the Bookkeeping program and walk away with my bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. I would like to start my own business with my wife. I am interested in Bookkeeping because I want to learn how to use QuickBooks and other accounting software. I look forward to having discussions with everyone.”
Begin a career in bookkeeping at Goodwin University
If you’re looking for a practical, flexible, and rewarding career, bookkeeping deserves your serious consideration. It’s more than just numbers — it’s about making a real impact on the financial health of businesses. A bookkeeping program provides a strong foundation for those wanting to build a career that’s both meaningful and secure.
Ready to begin an in-demand career in bookkeeping? Learn more about earning your certificate at Goodwin today!
Dr. Ebenezer Afarikumah (Ah-fah-ree-koo-mah) is an assistant professor and program director for the Business Administration program at Goodwin University. He has over 2 decades of experience in higher education and the information technology industry. At Goodwin University, he is a Universal Design for Learning (UDL) teaching fellow. He leads the Business Administration program, overseeing curriculum development, faculty mentorship, and academic operations with a strong emphasis on inclusive, student-centered learning.
He holds a Ph.D. in Information Technology from the Open University of Malaysia, an MBA in Management Information Systems from the University of Ghana Business School, and a BSc in Computer Science and Statistics from the University of Ghana. His interdisciplinary expertise spans data science, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, healthcare management/health informatics, and business information systems.
Dr. Afarikumah has supervised over 19 postgraduate theses and taught many courses at Goodwin University, Framingham State University, Greenfield Community College, and the University of Ghana Business School. He has published several journal papers and presented at conferences. He also published books as an author and co-author. He serves as a peer reviewer for leading academic journals.
His research interests include data science, artificial intelligence, telemedicine, cybersecurity, and health information systems. His professional affiliations include IEEE, ISACA, and the Mohawk Trail Toastmasters Club. Dr. Afarikumah is committed to academic excellence, technological innovation, and the transformative power of education.