Why Be a CPA?
A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is a public accountant who has been certified by a state examining board as having met the state's legal requirements. The CPA license is the gold standard for the accounting profession. It allows CPAs to have the authority to audit the work of other financial professionals and recommend changes and/or corrections to their work. Having a CPA license sets you apart from other candidates that have MBAs or business degrees.
To learn more about common career paths for CPAs, click here (AICPA infographic).
A CPA license opens doors and provides you with credibility!
CPAs have successful careers in public accounting, financial management, corporate accounting, government, non-profit, education and consulting sectors.
- CPAs serve as trusted financial advisors to business executives because they understand the intricacies of the financial marketplace. Through analysis of financial information, CPAs are the first to know a company’s past, present, and future. They guide everything from small business owners up to Fortune 500 corporations with this knowledge.
- All types of businesses need strategic financial thinkers and accountants to implement sound business practices. CPAs are among the most sought-after of all licensed financial professionals. In public accounting firms, most high ranking titles and levels require a CPA license.
- For CPAs in private industry, the Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) is only available to CPAs. It expands your career and marketability by certifying that you understand the global financial marketplace.
Earning Power!
CPAs earn higher salaries on average than many other financial professionals. Annual salaries for entry-level positions at many public accounting firms start at $45,000. Salaries increase rapidly as you gain experience. See for yourself at:
Robert Half Salary Guide
Payscale.com CPA Salary Calculator