The US CPA is the highest professional qualification in accounting management that anyone can aim for. If you want to become a CPA and have the right attitude and determination, then you can make your dreams come true.
Below are five of the most sought-after career opportunities in the field of CPA:
CPA Career Path #1: Public Accounting
CPAs who work in public accounting firms offer a comprehensive range of services such as accounting, auditing, tax, and consulting to clients of various sizes. Whether working as entry-level staff auditors or senior-level partners, CPAs have the chance to work with large multinational clients, small local companies, and everything in between. Among all services, the audit of public and private company financial statements is considered a highly desirable service. However, there is a high demand for public accountants across the entire field, with ample opportunities for career advancement.
The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) suggests several specialized areas within public accounting that CPAs can focus on, such as financial forensics, business valuation, personal financial planning, and IT consulting. In addition to these, some other common roles include budget analyst, tax examiner, and business systems analyst.
CPA Career Path #2: Business, Government, and Not-for-Profits
CPAs have a wide range of job opportunities available in this field, from staff accountants and financial analysts to CFO roles. Their primary duties include recording, analyzing, and reporting financial information for organizations, as well as performing budgeting and internal auditing functions.
As per the AICPA, CPAs can work in various areas of businesses, from family-owned to Fortune 500 companies, where they are regarded as trusted business partners. Some possible positions for CPAs in business include staff-financial accounting and reporting, staff-tax accounting, and staff-internal audit.
CPAs working in government hold positions at the federal, state, and local levels, where their responsibilities are similar to those in public accounting. They undertake auditing, financial reporting, and management accounting tasks.
In nonprofits, CPAs’ primary responsibility is to ensure that the services provided by the organization do not exceed their revenue. The potential roles for CPAs in nonprofit organizations may differ depending on each organization, but they may include staff financial accounting and reporting, staff internal audit, and controller.
CPA Career Path #3: Specialists
CPAs are frequently sought after to provide specialized services, and choosing a specialization can have a significant impact on job availability, salary, and work environment. It is essential to pursue a specialty that aligns with your interests and brings genuine enjoyment. For example, in the field of information systems, specialists assist organizations in managing their information technology, including analyzing and implementing systems improvements and revisions, as well as conducting risk assessments and data analysis.
Another specialization that CPAs often find appealing is internal auditing. Internal auditors are responsible for enhancing a company’s operations by evaluating both the financial and operational aspects of the business. This role involves assessing risks, controls, ethics, quality, economy, and efficiency to ensure the organization operates effectively. CPAs in this role are responsible for numerous tasks and must wear many hats.
CPA Career Path #4: Forensic Services
Forensic CPAs apply their expertise to investigate incidents involving fraud, bribery, embezzlement, and money laundering. They analyze and collect evidence that can assist the courts in determining whether a crime has been committed or help in resolving disputes. Law enforcement agencies such as the FBI often seek the assistance of forensic accountants to investigate financial crimes. While forensic accounting roles can be found in public accounting firms, consulting firms, insurance companies, and other sectors, they all require strong communication skills, ethical principles, and a natural inclination to investigate. Forensic accountants face unique challenges every day, making it an exciting career path for those who enjoy being on their toes.
CPA Career Path #5: Financial Advisor
CPAs act as financial advisors for individuals, providing guidance on managing finances and making informed decisions regarding various financial matters such as purchasing a home, college savings, starting a business, and planning for retirement. Financial advising is an excellent career choice for those who enjoy working with numbers and helping others. Financial planners work closely with clients to make a positive impact on their lives.
And that’s five distinctly different CPA career path possibilities for CPAs.
The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) course will equip you with the skills and knowledge to become the equivalent of a chartered accountant in the US and opens up a wide range of job opportunities in various industries.
