Choosing a career in finance can be exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming with so many specialisations to consider. Three of the most prominent career paths in this space are accounting, auditing, and tax. While they may seem similar at first glance, each offers distinct responsibilities, qualifications, and career prospects. Understanding the differences is key to making an informed decision about your future.

Whether you're considering pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce in Accountancy, wondering about internal auditor responsibilities, or comparing ACCA vs SAICA, this guide is for you.

Covered in this article

What Is Accounting?
What Are Internal Auditor Responsibilities?
The Role of Tax Professionals
ACCA vs SAICA – Which Qualification Should You Choose?
Where the Bachelor of Commerce in Accountancy comes in
Which Path Is Right for You?
Find Out More
FAQs

What Is Accounting?

Accounting is often referred to as the language of business. It involves recording, summarising, and analysing financial transactions to help organisations make sound decisions. Accountants ensure that financial statements are accurate and comply with relevant laws and regulations.

If you're considering a Bachelor of Commerce in Accountancy, this is typically the foundation for becoming a general accountant. You'll learn to prepare balance sheets, manage budgets, and interpret financial data, critical skills in almost every sector.

Is this the right path for you? Choose accounting if you're detail-oriented, enjoy working with numbers, and want to play a strategic role in business decision-making.

What Are Internal Auditor Responsibilities?

Auditing is a specialised branch of accounting focused on reviewing and evaluating financial records to ensure compliance and accuracy. Internal auditors work within organisations to examine internal controls, detect fraud, and ensure operational efficiency.

Key internal auditor responsibilities include:

• Evaluating risk management systems

• Ensuring compliance with policies and regulations

• Recommending improvements to internal processes

Auditing is ideal for those with a keen eye for detail and a passion for uncovering discrepancies and inefficiencies.

The Role of Tax Professionals

Taxation is another specialised area that deals with preparing tax returns, planning strategies to minimise tax liabilities, and ensuring compliance with tax laws. Tax professionals often work with individuals, corporations, and government bodies.

Tax specialists must stay updated with constantly changing laws and regulations, unlike general accountants. This career suits those who enjoy legal detail, strategic thinking, and high-pressure deadlines, especially during tax season.

ACCA vs SAICA – Which Qualification Should You Choose?

If you're planning a career in accounting or auditing, one major decision you'll face is choosing a professional body. The debate between ACCA vs SAICA is common for South African students.

• ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) is an internationally recognised qualification offering global mobility and broad financial knowledge.

• SAICA (South African Institute of Chartered Accountants) is South Africa’s premier accounting body, offering deep local recognition and access to lucrative opportunities within the country.

Choosing between ACCA vs SAICA depends on your career goals. If you aim to work internationally, ACCA might offer more flexibility. If your focus is a respected career within South Africa, SAICA is often preferred.

Where the Bachelor of Commerce in Accountancy Comes In

UJ Online offers a fully online learning experience that lays the groundwork for your future in accounting. While the exact name of the qualification may differ, many students search for a Bachelor of Commerce in Accountancy when looking for programmes that provide a comprehensive introduction to financial principles, auditing, and taxation.

Studying online allows for flexibility, but it’s important to note that UJ Online programmes are not self-paced. They include strict deadlines and structured milestones, ensuring academic rigour and consistent progress. Lectures are asynchronous, so you don’t need to attend real-time classes, making it perfect for working professionals.

Which Path Is Right for You?

Each of these career paths, accounting, auditing, and tax, offers unique opportunities:

• Accounting: Broad, versatile, ideal for business-minded professionals.

• Auditing: Precision-focused, analytical, and compliance-driven.

• Tax: Strategic, legally detailed, and policy-intensive.

Still unsure? Ask yourself:

• Do I enjoy working with systems and controls? Auditing might suit you.

• Do I want to advise clients on legal and strategic financial decisions? Tax could be the right choice.

• Do I want to work across industries and be central to financial planning? Accounting may be ideal.

Find Out More

Ready to take the next step in your career? UJ Online offers structured, fully supported programmes that help you gain real-world skills in the accounting and finance sector. 

Curious to find out more? Enquire today and see if you're eligible to apply.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between accounting, auditing, and tax?

Accounting involves financial reporting, auditing focuses on compliance and control, and tax deals with laws and planning strategies.

2. What are common internal auditor responsibilities?

Internal auditors assess risks, test internal controls, ensure compliance, and recommend improvements to systems and processes.

3. Is a Bachelor of Commerce in Accountancy the right degree for these careers?

Yes, it provides a solid foundation for careers in accounting, auditing, or taxation, though specialisation may require further study.

4. Which qualification should I choose: ACCA or SAICA?

Choose ACCA for international flexibility; SAICA if you plan to practise as a chartered accountant in South Africa.

5. Are online programmes at UJ self-paced?

UJ Online programmes are structured with strict deadlines and milestones, but offer flexibility with asynchronous learning.

6. Can I work while studying accounting online with UJ?

Yes, the asynchronous format is ideal for working professionals, though the workload and deadlines require consistent commitment.

7. How do I apply to a UJ Online accounting programme?

You can enquire online to begin the automated vetting process and determine your application eligibility.