How to Become a CPA

If you're wondering how to become a CPA, therea CPA, you're also wondering how your job
are many factors to consider. First you mustoutlook and salary will be once you enter the
consider whether the job is actually right for you,profession. On average, CPAs with one to three
and once you have that figured out then you canyears of experience may earn anywhere from
begin looking into the requirements that must be$35,000 to $60,000 annually depending on
fulfilled to get into a college program in preparationwhether they work at a large or small firm. Other
for this career. Most students choose a dedicatedfactors such as location, school where degree
accounting program at an accredited institutionwas earned and extracurricular activities may also
that provides a clear pathway to passage of ahelp to earn a higher salary. Some CPAs also
series of tests governed by the Americanhave master's degrees, which can raise the salary
Institute of Certified Public Accountants.even further. As you work your way up and
In order to be ready for the Uniform CPAbecome a director in a firm, you could earn
Examination you will need to be competent in theanywhere from $71,000 to $130,000 depending
various subjects that encompass the accountingon whether you work at a small, medium or large
world. A bachelor's degree that includes at leastfirm. Partners in firms can earn as much as
24 semester hours of accounting and 24$175,000. .
semester hours of other business courses is theThe best states to work as a CPA are California
best way to get ready for this tough examination.and New York where the median salary is
Then you may apply to take the exams by filling$75,000, but the outlook is good wherever you
out a series of forms (proving you have fulfilledgo, so it would be worthwhile to pursue this
the educational requirements) and by paying thecareer.
required fees. After passing the exams andInstitutions offering quality Accounting Programs
gaining licensure you will also need to take 120include University of Phoenix, Strayer University,
hours of continuing education courses every threeDeVry University, Brown Mackie College and
years. .Everest College.
Chances are if you're wondering how to become