Bookkeeping Certification Programs in Charleston, South Carolina

Becoming a Certified Bookkeeper in Charleston, South Carolina

Are you considering a career as a Certified Bookkeeper in Charleston, South Carolina? This guide will walk you through the process of earning your bookkeeping certification, exploring local education paths, and understanding the certification requirements. A Certified Bookkeeper is a professional who has demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to manage a company’s financial records accurately. There are various educational paths to becoming certified, including formal education programs, online courses, and hands-on training.

About Charleston

Charleston, South Carolina, is a historic city known for its rich cultural heritage, cobblestone streets, and beautiful waterfront views. As the largest city in South Carolina, Charleston offers a blend of Southern charm and modern amenities. The city is home to iconic landmarks such as the Charleston City Market and the historic district of Rainbow Row. For more information about Charleston, visit the official Charleston website.

Bookkeeping Training Programs in Charleston, South Carolina

If you’re looking to enroll in a bookkeeping program in Charleston, here are some local options:

  1. College of Charleston
    Located in the heart of downtown Charleston, the College of Charleston offers a comprehensive accounting program that includes courses in bookkeeping. This program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in financial principles and practices. For more information, visit the College of Charleston’s Accounting Program page.

  2. Trident Technical College
    Situated in North Charleston, Trident Technical College offers a Bookkeeping Certificate program that covers essential bookkeeping skills and knowledge. This program is ideal for those looking to enter the field quickly. More details can be found on the Trident Technical College website.

  3. Charleston Southern University
    Charleston Southern University, located in the North Charleston area, provides a Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting. This program includes courses that prepare students for bookkeeping roles. Visit the Charleston Southern University website for more information.

Bookkeeping Employment Opportunities in Charleston

Charleston is home to several major financial institutions and accounting firms that may employ bookkeepers:

  1. South State Bank
    With branches throughout Charleston, South State Bank offers various career opportunities in finance and accounting. Visit their careers page for more information.

  2. Dixon Hughes Goodman LLP
    Located in the West Ashley neighborhood, Dixon Hughes Goodman LLP is a reputable accounting firm offering positions in bookkeeping and accounting. Explore opportunities on their official website.

  3. Charleston County Government
    The Charleston County Government, situated in downtown Charleston, frequently has openings for bookkeeping and financial positions. Check their employment page for current listings.

Prerequisites for Bookkeeping Programs

To enroll in a bookkeeping program in Charleston, you typically need a high school diploma or GED. Some programs may require prior coursework in mathematics or business. Additionally, you must be at least 18 years old. Entrance exams or prior experience may be required for certain advanced programs.

Bookkeeping Certification Requirements

To become a Certified Bookkeeper in Charleston, South Carolina, you must meet specific requirements:

  • Certified Bookkeeper (CB) Designation:
    • Pass a four-part, multiple-choice examination administered by the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB).
    • Obtain at least two years of full-time bookkeeping experience or 3,000 hours of part-time experience.
    • Sign a Code of Ethics.
    • You can take and pass the exam before gaining the required experience, but the experience must be completed to receive the certification.
  • Educational and Training Requirements:
    • Experience: At least two years of full-time bookkeeping experience or 3,000 hours of part-time experience.
    • Coursework: Enrollment in a comprehensive online bookkeeping certification course, such as those offered by the University of South Carolina or Sumter’s training programs.
  • Course Specifics:
    • The course reinforces key bookkeeping concepts, definitions, and calculations, and includes resources such as videos, interactive activities, and hands-on exercises.
    • The course prepares you for the AIPB certification exams with practice quizzes, exams, and strategies for preparation.
  • Enrollment and Fees:
    • The Certified Bookkeeper course costs $2,195.00, which includes prepaid vouchers for the exams.
    • Books, materials, and exam fees are non-refundable upon registration.
  • Additional Considerations:
    • There is no specific state or local licensing required to practice as a bookkeeper in South Carolina. The certification is a national credential.

For more information on the job outlook for Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Certified Bookkeeper in Charleston, South Carolina, is a rewarding decision. With the right training and certification, you can open doors to numerous employment opportunities in this historic city. Contact a local school today to begin your journey toward becoming a Certified Bookkeeper.