Are you considering advanced degree options to prepare you for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam? For professionals seeking to become CPAs, obtaining an advanced accounting degree is a significant step toward career advancement and a crucial preparation for the rigorous CPA exam.
This article explores the structure and value of the CPA exam and how the online Master of Professional Accounting (MPAcc) in Business Analysis and Reporting program offered by Eastern Washington University (EWU) effectively equips students to pass this exam and have professional success.
What is the CPA Exam, and Why is It Important?
The CPA exam is a comprehensive assessment administered by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) that evaluates individuals on their mastery of accounting principles, business laws, taxation, auditing and other crucial areas of accounting practice.
This certification was introduced to the industry in the late 1800s to set clear competency and ethical standards for accounting professionals, responding to increasing industry complexity. Since then, the CPA certification evolved to adapt to changing accounting practices, technological advancements and global business environments. Now, it’s a prestigious designation recognized worldwide for its rigorous standards and professional integrity.
Expectations for the CPA Exam
The CPA exam comprises three Core sections: Auditing and Attestation (AUD), Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR) and Taxation and Regulation (REG). The exam also includes a four-hour Discipline section, which students can select from three options: Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR), Information Systems and Control (ISC) and Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP).
AUD tests auditing procedures, ethics and attestation engagements. FAR covers GAAP, financial statement preparation and related principles. REG focuses on federal taxation, business law, ethics and professional responsibilities. Each section evaluates specific knowledge areas essential for accounting professionals. The exam scoring system is on a scale from 0 to 99, with a passing score of 75.
Benefits of Passing the CPA Exam
The benefits of passing the CPA exam go beyond professional recognition. CPAs get access to higher salaries and achieve greater job security compared to their non-certified colleagues. Additionally, CPA licensure can lead to an accelerated career path, as many organizations prioritize promoting individuals with advanced qualifications to showcase their specialized skills.
Also, CPAs can specialize in various areas of accounting, such as forensic accounting, tax planning, financial analysis and management consulting. This diversification of expertise not only enhances job satisfaction but also enables CPAs to adapt to evolving industry trends and pursue fulfilling career paths aligned with their interests and goals.
Choosing the Right Advanced Degree to Prepare for the CPA Exam
An advanced accounting degree can help you prepare your skills and knowledge to approach the CPA examination with confidence and extra resources. Here are some of these specific benefits:
- Comprehensive curriculum
- Expert faculty guidance
- Access to resources and tools
- Networking opportunities
- Exemptions from exam requirements
EWU’s online MPAcc in Business Analysis and Reporting program is specifically designed to prepare students for the CPA exam and success as accounting professionals. This comprehensive program offers a blend of theoretical knowledge, practical skills and real-world application, ensuring graduates excel in their careers.
One advantage of EWU’s program is its focus on providing students with a fundamental understanding of business law — a crucial component of the CPA exam. This program also lets students earn credits towards the 150-hour educational requirement necessary to sit for the CPA exam.
Begin Your CPA Journey in Eastern Washington University’s Online MPAcc Program
Getting your CPA certification is an important professional step that will help you open professional doors and achieve more goals. EWU’s online MPAcc in Business Analysis and Reporting program gives aspiring accounting professionals the knowledge, skills and confidence to pass the CPA exam and succeed in the competitive landscape of accounting.
Learn more about EWU’s online Master of Professional Accounting in Business Analysis and Reporting program.
