Bookkeeping Certification Programs in Portland, Oregon

Becoming a Certified Bookkeeper in Portland, Oregon

If you’re looking to become a Certified Bookkeeper in Portland, Oregon, you’re in the right place. Certified Bookkeepers are vital to the financial health of any business, managing accurate financial records and ensuring compliance with tax regulations. This guide will walk you through the educational paths available to aspiring bookkeepers, including different programs and certifications.

About Portland

Portland, Oregon, known as the “City of Roses,” is an exciting place full of innovation and opportunity for aspiring bookkeepers. With its unique neighborhoods like Pearl District and Hawthorne, Portland offers diverse job opportunities in finance and accounting. For more information, visit Portland’s official website.

Bookkeeping Training Programs in Portland, Oregon

Portland is home to several reputable institutions offering bookkeeping programs to help you kickstart your career:

1. Portland Community College (PCC)
   • Location: Multiple campuses including Cascade and Sylvania
   • Program: PCC provides various accounting courses, including non-credit courses focused on QuickBooks and accounting software which are essential for bookkeepers. For more details, visit the PCC Accounting Program page.
2. Warner Pacific University
   • Location: Southeast Portland
   • Program: Offers a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting with a strong emphasis on practical bookkeeping skills and software proficiency. Visit their page here for more information.
3. Clackamas Community College
   • Location: Oregon City, a short drive from Portland
   • Program: Provides a range of accounting and bookkeeping courses that cater to both beginners and those seeking advanced training. Learn more on their website.

These institutions offer flexible schedules and comprehensive courses tailored for future Certified Bookkeepers.

Bookkeeping Employment Opportunities in Portland

Portland has a robust job market for bookkeepers, with various institutions that regularly hire qualified professionals:

1. Umpqua Bank
   • Location: Headquartered in the Pearl District
   • Overview: Known for its community banking services, Umpqua provides various financial opportunities. Explore job openings at Umpqua Bank Careers.
2. Moss Adams
   • Location: Downtown Portland
   • Overview: A leading accounting, consulting, and wealth management firm, offering a wealth of opportunities for bookkeepers. Learn more about their career options on Moss Adams Careers.
3. KPMG
   • Location: Southwest Portland
   • Overview: This global professional services firm frequently offers roles in accounting and bookkeeping. Current vacancies can be found at KPMG Careers.

These organizations represent just a snapshot of the employment landscape for bookkeepers in Portland.

Prerequisites for Bookkeeping Programs

To enroll in a bookkeeping program, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some programs may have additional prerequisites, such as basic math or English proficiency tests, or prior work experience in an office setting.

Bookkeeping Certification Requirements

Getting certified as a bookkeeper in Portland involves understanding national certification standards:

• Certified Bookkeeper (CB) by the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB)
  • Requires passing an extensive examination and proving relevant work experience.
  • Visit the AIPB’s official site for detailed certification information.
• Certified Public Bookkeeper (CPB) by the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB)
  • Involves completing specific coursework and passing examinations.
  • Learn more at the NACPB website.

Both certifications are reputable and can be pursued online, fitting certifications into flexible study schedules.

Get Started Today

Portland offers a dynamic environment for pursuing a career as a Certified Bookkeeper. With various training programs and employment opportunities available, now is the perfect time to kickstart your journey. Contact a school today to learn more about their programs and take the first steps towards your new career.

For more on job prospects and salaries, check the Bureau of Labor Statistics page for Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks.