Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Career
How to become a CPA and details of the profession.
Here's something you might not know: All CPAs are accountants, but not all accountants are CPAs. What's the difference? Becoming a CPA means you must earn a college degree, pass a tough exam, and undergo any additional requirements mandated by your particular state. There's no shortcut. Although here's a surprise you'll appreciate: as a CPA it is highly unlikely you'll be required to do Einstein math.
CPAs expand their career options significantly compared to accountants. For instance, you'll earn at least 10% more than a college educated accountant right off the bat. Another benefit is that your special certification enhances your credibility, demonstrating to a potential employer how committed you are to your profession. Finally, being a CPA enables you to be eligible for promotions in public accounting firms whereas those without licenses are restricted. So, if you're really passionate about finance and can be very disciplined with your studies, there is no reason why you should not pursue a career as a Certified Public Accountant.
Functions they perform
- Auditing
- Accounting
- Tax planning and preparation
- Financial planning
Where they work
- Large corporations
- Public accounting firms
- Government agencies
- Private companies
- As independent consultants
Education Requirements
- Approximately 150 hours of college-level course work
- Passing each portion of a 4-part CPA exam
- Pre-requisite accounting work as prescribed by the state in which you intend to practice
- Continuing professional education courses
Earning Potential
Starting salary at major public accounting firms range from $35,000 to 48,000 annually. In smaller firms you should expect a starting range between $29,500 to $40,750.
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