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CPA license?

As an accounting major, is pursuing a CPA license worth it in the long run? #Spring2026

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Tamesha’s Answer

Hello!

Absolutely! Earning your CPA is definitely a smart move for the future. While having a CPA will benefit you at any firm or company you choose, remember that this license is for you! Putting in the effort now will help you break through any barriers. Getting your CPA will unlock many opportunities and open doors for you. Keep pushing forward!
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Sophia’s Answer

Having a CPA license is very beneficial for an accounting major. It offers many career opportunities and options. CPAs usually earn more money than those without the license and often get promoted faster. It is considered a top qualification in the field.
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Stephanie’s Answer

A CPA license is the gold standard for accountants. While you don't "need" one to be able to perform the function it will set you up for higher career opportunities and earnings over your lifetime. Without the license there can be limitations as to what kinds of roles you might be eligible for. I know the experience of sitting for the exam can feel overwhelming. Going at it with the right tools, support, and mindset will go a long way. It's an accomplishment that you can be very proud of and in all fairness will increase your analytical problem solving skills. I hold both a CMA and CPA personally. Both were challenging to obtain. I currently work in the private sector as a Controller and I still find that the CPA is the more valuable of the two even when the CMA covered more topics relevant to my specific role.
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Steven’s Answer

Melanie-I was an accounting major and was in the profession for almost 50 years. I was in public accounting as well as small and large public and private companies, winding up on CAO and VP Finance positions. One thing that I found is that there were always jobs out there in different industries, specialities, etc as everyone always needs accountants.
Of course, with AI, the profession will be different than the one I was in. However, you’ll still need to learn and know how to apply the basics but you’ll wind up becoming more analytical and using reasoning skills earlier in your career than I did. The march and April 2026 issues of the journal of accountancy have some great articles about how AI will affect the profession that you should read. You can also look on line as to how the big 4 will be using ai in their firms. Companies and accounting firms will all be using AI sooner rather than later so you really should take a course that provides a solid understanding of AI while you’re in school which can give you a leg up on other graduates.

Hope that helps. Good luck.
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Brad’s Answer

For most accounting majors, getting a CPA license is definitely worth it over time. It leads to better earnings, more career options, and greater job security. Many top accounting positions, like audit partner or CFO, either require or prefer a CPA, so having one can really open doors. With fewer new CPAs and many retiring, the demand for licensed accountants is strong.

Even as technology takes over simple tasks, a CPA is becoming more valuable. It shows you have good judgment, ethical responsibility, and can handle complex financial decisions. Although earning a CPA takes time and effort, it offers long-term flexibility and acts as career insurance, especially for those aiming for leadership roles. For anyone planning to stay in accounting, and even if you're unsure, getting a CPA is usually a wise choice.
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Julie’s Answer

Hi! Great question - I definitely think pursuing the CPA is worth it. My advice would also be that if you plan on pursuing the CPA, start building it into your college plan. If you can start sitting for the exams in your final year of school or right after, I've found that studying around that time is easier when you're still in 'school mode' and therefore studying is a bit easier to manage. But whatever works for your schedule - everyone takes different paths. I do believe it's a great choice though. Best of luck!
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Shelly’s Answer

In my experience, a CPA license is one of the most valuable credentials an accounting professional can earn, particularly if you are considering public accounting, financial reporting, controllership, audit, tax, or leadership roles. While it is not required for every accounting or finance career, it can significantly enhance your credibility, broaden your career opportunities, and increase your long-term earning potential. That said, the CPA requires a substantial investment of time and effort, so the decision should align with your career goals. If you enjoy accounting and can see yourself working in the profession for the foreseeable future, I would generally view the CPA as a worthwhile investment that tends to pay dividends throughout your career, even if your path eventually takes you outside of public accounting.
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Dwight’s Answer

Hi Melanie,

I hope all is well! This is a good question! It is definitely worth it in the long run. The CPA opens doors to roles in public accounting, corporate finance, audit, tax, advisory, and it is often required or strongly preferred for advancement into higher level positions. While the coursework and exams are challenging, the credentials signals credibility and can significantly improve your career long term.

The real value comes from how flexible the CPA makes your career over time. It can be a stepping stone into leadership roles in companies, specialized areas like tax strategy, or even transition into consulting later on. It is not just about the first job after college rather it gives yourself more options in a field that consistently needs skilled professionals.

I hope this answers your question. Please let me know if you have any additional questions on your journey. Hope to talk soon!

Thank you,
Dwight
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Bill’s Answer

For most accounting majors, becoming a CPA is worthwhile. It often leads to higher salaries, better job security, and more opportunities in audit, tax, advisory, technical accounting, and controllership roles.
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Armando’s Answer

Earning your CPA is definitely worth it. It will open more job doors, boost your pay, and help you grow as a professional.
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