Accounting Occupations: Employment of accountants and auditors is expected to grow faster than average for all occupations through the year 2014. An increase in the number of businesses, changing financial laws and regulations, and increased scrutiny of company finances will drive growth.

Education: Job seekers who obtain certification or licensure, a master's degree, proficiency in accounting and auditing computer software, or specialized expertise will have the best opportunities.

Scope: Accountants and auditors held about 1.2 million jobs in 2004. They worked throughout private industry and government, but one out of four accountants worked for accounting, tax preparation, bookkeeping and payroll services firms. Approximately one out of 10 accountants or auditors was self-employed.

The future of accounting jobs is bright. With increased federal scrutiny into company books, accounting jobs on the whole are expected to grow faster than average. This is good news for accounting jobs seekers interested in keeping corporate America on the straight and narrow.

• Accounting Jobs Outlook