If you want a stable, well-paid career that can lead to employment in practically any industry, enjoy the office workplace setting, and are data, math, and technologically-savvy, a Payroll Technician degree or certification may be a great fit for you.

Types of Degrees

Payroll Technician students typically pursue a certificate program, associate degree (2 years), or bachelor's degree (4 years) before entering the industry as a Payroll/Timekeeping Clerk. In this field, a certification from the American Payroll Association can give you a leg up on the competition.

Admission Requirements

A high school diploma or equivalent is required, with a strong academic background helping applicants obtain acceptance into their desired school. Each school has its own specific requirements, making it important for you to explore several options before settling on a particular school.

Career Opportunities After Earning A Payroll Technician Degree Or Certification

The range of career opportunities available to someone with a Payroll Technician Degree Or Certification include:

• Financial Clerk
• Payroll/Timekeeping Clerk
• Information based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary.

Post Graduate Salary Information

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary of Financial Clerks was $49,990 in 2025 ¹.

Note that the average salary varies widely not only depending on career chosen, but on geographical location and employer. Conditions in your area may vary.

References

1. Bureau of Labor Statistics

• Careers associated with these educational opportunities often require additional degrees and certifications not offered as part of the educational opportunities presented by this website.
• Information based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary.