If you are considering becoming a certified forensic accountant there are many steps
that you must take in order to be certified and successful. While it is an extremely beneficial and rewarding career it is not an easy road to get there. If you are hoping to become a forensic accountant, the path to getting there does vary by state somewhat but the general road is the same. See below for some of the most basic steps that you will need to take in order to become a certified forensic accountant.
- Must graduate high school: Every future certified forensic accountant needs to
graduate high school. Most students at this level find they excel in and appreciate math,
computer science, statistics, or even psychology. These are the subjects that will benefit
the student the most later on in their career. - Seek out a bachelor’s program: There are a variety of applicable programs at various
schools across the country. Attempt to enroll in one that is either specific to forensic
accounting or directly related. - Take the CPA exam: The CPA exam consists of four different sections. The four sections
include audition and attestation, business environment and concepts, financial
accounting and reporting, and regulations. In order to pass the student must receive a
minimum of 75 out of 99. - Experience: Before a student can be licensed with their state real work experience in
the field is required. Depending on the state this requirement is usually between one to
three years of time. - Seek state licensure: Again, the official requirements vary by state. However, an
example of qualifying for a state license includes a certain number of semester/quarter
hours of schooling as well as a certain number of years of experience in the field.
Additional certifications are also available as you progress in your career.
