If you already have a bachelor’s degree, Franklin’s master’s degree in accounting can help you reach the required 150 credit hours to sit for the CPA exam. A master’s degree will also add another valuable credential to your résumé that can help you stand out in the marketplace. Franklin University offers a 100% online bachelor’s degree in accounting designed to help working adults earn their degrees. Franklin’s accounting program teaches industry best-practice skills and the latest accounting technology to help students stand out in a competitive market. A CPA is an accounting professional who has passed the CPA exam and met additional state education and experience requirements.

If you’re considering working with a CPA or an accountant, you may want to consult with a financial advisor first. Try using SmartAsset’s free advisor matching tool to find advisors that serve your area. The demand for financial transparency and compliance ensures a wide range of opportunities for accountants in public accounting, corporate cpa vs accountant finance, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. Accountants can advance from entry-level positions to managerial and executive roles, specializing in areas like audit, taxation, financial analysis, and management consulting. For example, they possess the authority to file reports with the SEC and conduct attestations.

Choosing Between an Accountant and CPA

In conclusion, Frank K. Ross’s tireless dedication to advancing diversity within the accounting field serves as both an inspiration and a call to action. Moreover, we should explore innovative approaches to present the accounting profession to young minds, tapping into creative methods to showcase its relevance and potential. This could involve gamified learning experiences, interactive workshops, and engaging initiatives demystifying the accounting world. As a passionate advocate for promoting diversity within the accounting profession, I had the privilege of engaging in an enlightening interview with Frank Ross, which is presented below in edited form.

The National Association of State Boards of Accountancy reports that there are approximately 669,000 actively licensed CPAs, meaning approximately 50% of accountants in the United States are CPAs. It’s also important to note that not all accountants and CPAs perform all of the duties listed above. This guide will help you differentiate between a CPA and an accountant, as well as answer pressing questions about how these designations impact an accountant’s career path. This blog takes a deeper dive into the differences between accountants and CPAs, as well as the career outlook for both.

CPA VS Accountant

Moreover, the rigorous requirements for obtaining and maintaining the CPA license reflect your dedication to upholding high standards of integrity and competency in your work. You can also pursue management consulting, information technology, education, and financial planning careers. While these may not seem like typical professions for accountants, many industries rely on financial expertise.

• This investment in talent will yield dividends in the form of a more diverse and dynamic profession.
• Keeping accurate records and filing tax returns can be quite complex, so many Americans choose to seek professional help from an accountant.
• You will need an accountant to maintain financial records, manage payments, and plan your taxes.
• With that said, many CPAs specialize in certain areas, and may not offer all of the above services.
• Experienced accountants can break down and analyze financial statements, including examining cash flow, calculating accounting ratios, and making expense recommendations.