The Road to Becoming an Accountant

The path to becoming an accountant is long, but well worth the effort. You’ll need a 4- year college degree in accounting to enter the field as an accountant, rather than as a bookkeeper who can begin with a two year AA. To go farther and be licensed as a CPA in most states and territories you can apply to sit for the exam after you achieve your bachelor’s. Most people, however, will need further graduate level coursework aimed specifically at preparation for licensed work. You’ll also need to pass the universal CPA exam, and obtain the work experience necessary. By meeting the specific requirements of your state and by following through over the years with mandatory relicensing and continuing education, you can gain a career that is stable, respectable, well paid and secure. There are few professions as clearly and constantly useful as that of the CPA.

The four year degree program which allows you to enter the field as an accountant, though not as a CPA, can be obtained through a range of colleges, universities and business colleges. Many can be obtained online these days. Regardless of where you obtain your accounting degree, be sure the source is respected and that it provides a solid grounding in common business practices, in auditing and forensic bookkeeping, and in the common computer software tools used in the industry.

Graduate programs for those planning on taking the CPA exam can also be gained through many sources. Don’t limit yourself to any single answer before doing your research. The demands placed on CPAs are extensive and include many elements of professional skill not often called on by simple accounting positions. A CPA is a specialist, and you want to make certain you are getting the academic training needed to turn you into a specialist. Online sources of programs can be very good: however look into programs in as many places and using as many venues as possible. The “perfect” program for you could be at a University Extension, or through a local business college.

The best place to learn about the universal CPA exam is at the exam website, http://www.cpa-exam.org/. The site provides an overview of the test and its sections, as well as information about qualifying to sit for the exam, frequency of testing permitted, and more. Because of the central importance of passing the test you should take the time to completely familiarize yourself with this site before even signing up for a grad course. By learning the structure, nature, topics and goals of the exam you can better assess the value of programs offered.

The final thing you need to get a CPA license is the job experience required by your state or territory. The specifics can be looked up in a number of places. You can contact your state licensing board, or check online at sites like http://www.becker.com/accounting/cpaexamreview/state/index.cfm. Don’t try to skimp on this final phase of necessary requirements for accreditation. Doctors serve internships, and CPAs gain work experience. Failing to meet the final obligation wastes the time and effort that came before.

To retain your license you will be required to renew on a schedule determined by your regional authorities, and will also have to present proof of continuing accounting education. Without both of these ongoing obligations your license will lapse. Therefore when you have accomplished your goal and gained your license be sure to meet the obligations that license imposes to avoid professional complications.