I’m feeling a bit uncertain about the CPA requirements and the best way to move forward as I approach graduation. I’ll be graduating with an undergraduate degree in Accounting and have completed 27 credits so far. My goal is to become CPA-eligible in my state, which requires 150 total credits and 33 Accounting credits.
I’m also thinking about pursuing a master’s in finance to broaden my skill set and explore different career opportunities in the future. Has anyone taken this path? Regarding the last 6 Accounting credits, is it possible to earn them by taking two electives, or are there other options to fulfill this requirement?
To summarize, has anyone chosen not to pursue a master’s in accounting? If so, how did you ensure you still met the eligibility criteria? I’m confident that after completing my finance master’s, I’ll have the necessary 150 credits. I just want to ensure I have a solid plan to obtain the remaining accounting credits.
Here’s a list of the accounting courses I’ve completed:
– Auditing
– Tax
– Advanced Accounting
– Intermediate Accounting I & II
– Cost and Managerial Accounting
– Financial Accounting
(There may be one more course that I’ve overlooked.)
Any advice or experiences shared would be greatly appreciated!
One response
It’s great that you’re thinking ahead about your CPA requirements and career options! Given your situation, here are a few thoughts:
Making Up the Accounting Credits: Yes, you can fulfill the remaining 6 Accounting credits through elective courses. Many universities offer electives that cover advanced topics in Accounting, and these would typically count toward your CPA eligibility. Consider courses like Accounting Information Systems or Forensic Accounting, if available. Check with your academic advisor to ensure that the classes you choose will meet the state’s requirements.
Master’s in finance vs. Accounting: Pursuing a master’s in finance could definitely broaden your skill set and career opportunities. Many CPAs have successfully transitioned to roles in finance, corporate strategy, or even investment management after obtaining their CPA. If you go this route, just make sure to plan your elective courses strategically to ensure that you can take the required accounting classes.
Alternative Ways to Gain Credits: If you’re looking for flexibility, online courses or community college classes might be an option for picking up the additional credits. Some universities also offer certificate programs that might provide the necessary credits and can be completed while you pursue your master’s degree.
Networking and Advice: Reach out to recent graduates or professionals who have taken similar paths. They can offer helpful insights on how they navigated their CPA eligibility while pursuing different educational avenues.
Planning Ahead: Whatever you decide, developing a clear plan that details how you’ll meet your CPA requirements while pursuing other interests is essential. It might be helpful to map out both the coursework you’ll need and potential timelines for completing the necessary credits.
Check State Board Guidelines: Always make sure to consult your state’s Board of Accountancy for specific requirements related to accounting credits to ensure compliance.
If you manage your course choices strategically, you can definitely achieve your goal while broadening your expertise. Good luck with your final semester and future plans!