Become a CPA
Certified Public Accountant
CPAs audit financial statements of public and private companies; serve as consultants in many areas, including tax, accounting, and financial planning; and are well-respected strategic business advisers and decision makers. Their roles range from accountants to controllers; from chief financial officers of Fortune 500 companies to advisers of small neighborhood businesses.
How Do You Become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA)?
Education
First, you must receive a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university, completing at least 36 semester-credit hours in accounting subjects. These subjects include accounting and auditing, business law, finance, or tax subjects.
CPA Exam
The Uniform CPA Examination is the test that individuals must pass to qualify for licensure as certified public accountants. This is a four-part exam, consisting of Auditing and Attestation, Financial Accounting and Reporting, Taxation and Regulation, and a new discipline section of your choice.
Experience & Licensing
In addition to passing the CPA Exam, you need to satisfy work experience requirements to become licensed. Candidates who have graduated with 150 credits are required to complete one year (1,600 hours) of work experience through employment in government, industry, academia, or public practice within five years of the date you apply for your license.
Visit the CPA Exam & Licensing Center for a step-by-step guide to getting your CPA license in Pennsylvania.
