Becoming a CPA

A CPA is an accountant who has satisfied the educational, experience and examination requirements necessary to receive a license. CPAs audit financial statements of both publicly and privately held companies. They serve as consultants in many areas, including tax, forensics, information technology and financial planning. They are well-respected strategic business advisors and decision-makers.

CPAs work for public accounting firms, companies in business and industry, all levels of government, non profit organizations—and for themselves. Anywhere that money is to be made and managed, you will find a CPA.

Unlike non-certified accountants, CPAs are required by law to complete 80 hours of continuing education every two years and take courses in ethics and maintain a strict ethical code. In Maryland CPAs also periodically undergo a review by their peers to evaluate their competence and integrity.

How do you become a CPA in Maryland?

Complete 150 college credit hours.
Gain a year of real-world experience working for a CPA.
Pass a four-part computerized test of business, auditing and general accounting skills.
Pass the ethics exam.

To learn more about the CPA, visit these Web sites: