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QuickBooks Certified vs. General Bookkeeping Certificate: Which One Should You Choose?
QuickBooks Certified vs. General Bookkeeping Certificate: Which One Should You Choose?
When you're diving into the world of bookkeeping, one of the first big decisions you'll face is what kind of certification to pursue. Do you go for a QuickBooks Certified designation that proves you're a pro at one of the most widely used accounting tools? Or do you opt for a more general bookkeeping certificate that covers broader accounting principles and practices?
It’s a common fork in the road—and the answer depends heavily on your goals, your current experience, and where you see your career going.
QuickBooks Certified vs. General Bookkeeping Certificate: Which One Should You Choose?
QuickBooks Certified vs. General Bookkeeping Certificate: Which One Should You Choose?
What Is QuickBooks Certification, Really?
QuickBooks certification is a specialized credential offered by Intuit that verifies your proficiency in using QuickBooks software. This can be the desktop version or QuickBooks Online, depending on the path you choose.
If you’re planning to work with small businesses, startups, or even run your own freelance bookkeeping service, being QuickBooks Certified can instantly build credibility. After all, millions of businesses use QuickBooks, and many prefer hiring someone who knows the platform inside and out.
But here’s the kicker: QuickBooks certification is not a substitute for a comprehensive education in bookkeeping. It’s more of a software-focused badge than a deep-dive into accounting principles.
What’s Included in a General Bookkeeping Certificate?
What’s Included in a General Bookkeeping Certificate?
A general bookkeeping certificate program, like those offered by Universal Accounting School, goes far beyond software. These accounting online training certifications cover essential concepts like double-entry accounting, payroll, financial reporting, reconciliations, accounts receivable/payable, and much more.
In other words, a general certificate teaches you how to think like a bookkeeper, regardless of the tools you're using. This is the kind of certification that gives you longevity and flexibility in your career. You're not tied to one software—you're building foundational knowledge that applies across any platform.
And let’s not forget: many bookkeeping certificate programs also include training on QuickBooks as part of the curriculum. So you might get the best of both worlds without needing to choose.
When QuickBooks Certification Makes More Sense
When QuickBooks Certification Makes More Sense
If you're already confident in the basics of bookkeeping—or you've been doing it informally and now want to specialize—getting QuickBooks certified can be a fast, focused way to enhance your marketability.
Here’s who benefits most:
Freelancers offering remote bookkeeping services
Admin staff transitioning into accounting roles
Professionals looking to upskill quickly for a promotion
Entrepreneurs managing their own business finances
It's also a smart move if you already have a bookkeeping certificate and want to stack your credentials to land bigger clients or better job opportunities.
When a General Bookkeeping Certificate Is the Smarter Move
When a General Bookkeeping Certificate Is the Smarter Move
If you're starting from scratch or changing careers, a general bookkeeping certificate program offers far more long-term value.
Here’s why:
It gives you real accounting fluency, not just software tricks.
You’ll understand the why behind the numbers, not just the how.
You can work with a wider variety of clients or employers.
It opens doors to more advanced certifications down the road (like becoming a Certified Bookkeeper or even a CPA).
And the biggest bonus? Many general programs—especially the best online bookkeeping certifications—are now taught in a flexible, self-paced format. You can learn on your own time, from anywhere, without sacrificing quality.
So… Which One Should You Choose?
So… Which One Should You Choose?
Here’s the bottom line:
If you want deep knowledge, career flexibility, and a solid foundation, start with a general bookkeeping certificate program.
If you already know your stuff and want to show clients or employers that you're a QuickBooks wizard, then go ahead and get QuickBooks Certified.
But don’t treat it like an either/or situation. At Universal Accounting School, many of our students start with a full bookkeeping program and add on QuickBooks certification as part of their learning path. It’s the smart, layered approach that keeps you competitive—whether you're applying for a job or launching your own business.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you're serious about a career in bookkeeping, don’t settle for one-dimensional learning. Our bookkeeping certificate programs at Universal Accounting School are designed to give you real-world skills, professional recognition, and the confidence to succeed—whether you’re using QuickBooks, Xero, or any other accounting platform.
Explore the best online bookkeeping certification options with us today and build a future where your skills stand out.
Visit Universal Accounting School and start your journey now.
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