Becoming a CPA can be beneficial if you're looking to pursue a career in accounting. Holding a CPA certificate and licensure demonstrates that you not only meet state licensing requirements, but that you are able to perform a range of public accounting services in a variety of fields and disciplines.
While requirements vary, in most states you’ll need to meet the requirements for CPA licensure, pass the CPA Exam, complete a minimum of 150 hours of accounting-specific coursework and hold a bachelor’s degree, such as a bachelor's degree in accounting. Sometimes, additional credit hours may be needed to meet a state’s requirements. In this case, additional schooling or CPA Exam prep programs or courses, such as our Graduate Certificate in CPA Preparation offered here at DeVry, may be helpful1.
Once you’ve passed the CPA Exam and earned your certificate, the path to licensure and becoming a CPA begins.
If you're looking into how to become a CPA, we can help you get started. In this article, you'll learn about the basic requirements for earning your CPA certificate, licensure and discover what you need to meet those requirements. We'll explore these topics and more in the following sections (jump to):