10 In-Demand Software Skills for Accountants
When accounting instructors describe the goals they have for their students, career readiness often tops the list. But too often, students don’t know what employers expect of them or which skills will set them apart in the job market.
As an educator, you have an opportunity to close this gap for your students. You can build their awareness about the skills employers prioritize most and give them opportunities to develop those essential skills.
According to Lightcast™, here are the top 10 software skills requested or required by U.S. employers hiring accounting or finance professionals between March 2023 and March 2024.
Skill |
Unique Job Postings |
Microsoft Excel |
932,287 |
Microsoft Office |
841,842 |
Microsoft PowerPoint |
465,067 |
Microsoft Outlook |
377,676 |
SQL (Programming Language) |
230,546 |
Microsoft Word |
223,314 |
Python (Programming Language) |
217,459 |
SAP Applications |
187,916 |
Spreadsheets |
153,680 |
Accounting Software |
144,960 |
While making your students aware that these skills are in-demand, it’s essential to emphasize that it’s not enough for students to say they’re familiar with applications like Excel. They need to demonstrate that they possess proficiency.
That’s where McGraw Hill’s SIMnet platform can help. SIMnet is a training and assessment solution that develops students’ skills in Microsoft 365 applications. Many accounting instructors use SIMnet alongside the Connect platform to remediate students’ skills—particularly in Excel—through hands-on practice, accounting projects, and adaptive learning experiences.
SIMnet also equips students with digital credentials that validate their skill proficiency. These credentials can be shared on LinkedIn or resumes to give students a competitive edge in the job market. They’re also highly effective in motivating students to upskill and reskill!
To learn more about how SIMnet can help your accounting students develop in-demand skills, check out a self-paced tour today!