What's the overall career outlook for accountants?

　　According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of accountants and auditors is expected to grow about 10 to 20 percent through the year 2008. As the economy grows, more accountants and auditors will be needed to set up books, prepare taxes, and provide management advice. In response to market demand, these accounting professionals will offer more management and consulting services as they take on a greater advisory role and develop more sophisticated and flexible accounting systems. Also, internal auditors will increasingly be needed to discover and eliminate waste and fraud. Competition is keen for the most prestigious jobs in major accounting and business firms, but graduates with a master''''s degree in accounting or a master''''s in business administration will have a distinct advantage in the job market.