Tuesday | May 22, 2012
CPA: Three life-altering letters
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By
Scott Moore
2 November 2010
How the CPA License puts you on a Different Career Path
As an accounting student, you might be wondering if you need to spend the extra time and effort to get your CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license. “Can’t I make a decent living as an accountant?” Well, sure. But the letters C-P-A—much like a lawyer’s J.D. or a scientist’s PhD—set you up for a different career. Here’s why.
CPA = more opportunity. Having the CPA credential behind your name proves that your skills are up-to-date and relevant to today’s business challenges. That simple fact opens doors for you to move up the ranks to CFO—or do something completely different, like run a non-profit, teach at a college or be a financial planner. The license lets you go in any direction you want.
CPA = higher salary. You’ll make 10-15% more throughout your career if you have a CPA license. Period.
CPA = more respect. Just like the letters PhD or M.D. equal respect, so does CPA. CPAs are considered the most trusted advisors in business. You’ll be taken seriously as a young professional if you’ve done the work to get the credential.
CPA = job security. CPAs are consistently ranked as one of the nation’s most recession-proof careers. Accounting is essential to business no matter how the economy is doing—and CPAs are the ones running the show.
CPA = an edge. When you’re changing jobs—which will probably happen several times in your life—the CPA behind your name will indicate to potential employers that you’re an expert in your field. And that makes you an instant choice over someone without the designation.
Ready to see an even clearer picture of your potential career path? Try the “Find Your Fit” feature at ThisWayToCPA.com, the American Institute of CPAs’ new site for aspiring CPAs. It contains everything you ever wanted to know about a potential career in accounting including career advice, a salary calculator, exam tips and more.
This article is sponsored by AICPA.
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