Professional and technological skills requirements of accounting graduates in Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated the professional and technological skills of accounting graduates in Nigeria. This was motivated by the call for review of accounting curriculum to meet changing business environment. Data obtained from 436 respondents drawn from Northeastern Nigeria were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Communication skills and computer application were found to be the most important professional skills for a successful career in accounting. Similarly, spreadsheet, database and presentation packages were most rated IT skills for a career in accounting profession. Public sector, cost and financial accounting were rated extremely important knowledge acquired to work relation tasks and responsibilities. The findings of this paper provide implication to policy makers on designing accounting curriculum in enhancing the quality of accounting graduates in Nigeria.