Accounting is a field of specialization critical to the functioning of all types of organizations. Accounting often is referred to as ‘‘the language of business’’ because of its role in maintaining and processing all relevant financial information that an entity requires for its managing and reporting purposes. Accountants often have a specific subspecialization and function at one of several levels. Preparation for the field is provided by secondary schools, postsecondary business schools, community colleges, and four-year colleges and universitie.
