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What if I don't want to obtain my Certified Public Accounting License?

Accounting student st Towson university #accounting

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Rose’s Answer

None of my positions have required a CPA. I work in industry doing GL accounting and financial analysis, but as my career has progressed, I find that most hiring managers prefer a CPA and/or MBA.
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Alicia’s Answer

Although there certainly are Accounting jobs that don't require a CPA, I strongly recommend you reconsider because you are closing the door to many, many employment opportunities that will require a CPA. For example, you will not be eligible for the majority of the entry level positions at the Big 4 accounting firms and other global public accounting firms. And as you progress in your career in any of those kinds of firms, a CPA or similar credential will be required for promotion at some point. Also, if you ever wanted to start your own practice as an entrepreneur, you would want to be a CPA so that you have a recognizable, professional credential that future clients would expect. Please reconsider your decision, because the effort you put into being CPA eligible today will pay off big-time in the future.
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Laurie’s Answer

Obtaining your CPA is the best way to open doors for your career progression but it is not a necessity. Many people go far without their CPA but it is a slower course.
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Tina’s Answer

Hi there,


You do not need to become a CPA in order to become an Accountant or pursue a career in Accounting. You will simply need to target roles that do not require a CPA. There are firms out there, especially small and mid-sized, that will hire an Accountant without the certification. Do you have an idea of the industry you'd like to be in? What made you decide that you prefer not to pursue your CPA?
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Matthew’s Answer

Hi Ayomide,

There are plenty of careers where getting the CPA is not necessary. As some answers above have mentioned roles in financial planning or financial analysis that value different skills and certifications. Careers in public accounting or corporate accounting generally prefer candidates to have their CPA license. To be answer this question for yourself, I would spend some time researching people on Linkedin in possible career that interest you. If those people have their CPA, it might be worth considering applying for the CPA. From my personal experience just completing the CPA exams, it is a very challenging yet rewarding process that can pay dividends in your career. For example most accounting firms will pay for all the CPA fees and pay you large bonus when you complete the exam.

Matthew recommends the following next steps:

Research careers that a CPA is not necessary
Research careers that a CPA is necessary
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