What is a CPA?
A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is a licensed professional who helps individuals and organizations make confident financial decisions. Known for their integrity, strategic insight, and commitment to public trust, CPAs work across every sector of the economy. Backed by their education and ongoing learning, the CPA credential stands as a mark of excellence, adaptability, and impact.
Where CPAs Work
Audit and assurance services help organizations gain confidence in their financial information and strengthen how they operate.
- Audits focus on the accuracy of financial statements and ensure required standards are being maintained.
- Assurance goes beyond financials, helping organizations assess internal processes, manage risk, or evaluate reporting systems.
Together, these services offer valuable insights that support better decisions, improve transparency, and position businesses for long-term success.
CPAs in consulting roles help organizations solve complex problems and plan for the future. Whether working independently or as part of a team, they guide clients through big decisions like restructuring, improving operations, or expanding into new markets. These roles blend technical know-how with creativity, strategy, and relationship-building.
In the business world, CPAs are trusted advisors who help companies make smart financial decisions. From managing budgets and forecasting to analyzing performance, they play a hands-on role in shaping a company’s growth. If you’re interested in business strategy and driving results, this path might be for you.
If you enjoy helping others understand and navigate the evolving financial and business landscape, consider becoming a CPA educator. Educators equip future accountants with the technical skills and real-world insights they need to succeed in the classroom, through the CPA Exam and into their careers.
Some CPAs forge their own path by starting a firm, launching a niche practice, or offering specialized services. This career blends accounting expertise with leadership and innovation, providing flexibility, independence, and the opportunity to build lasting relationships.
Curious about solving puzzles and uncovering the truth? Forensic accountants use their accounting knowledge and investigative techniques to detect fraud, financial misconduct or irregularities. They might work with legal teams, law enforcement, or internal auditors to protect organizations and the public.
CPAs in government help manage public resources and ensure accountability across local, state, or federal programs. Whether it’s budgeting, auditing, or analyzing financial policy, their work supports the public services that shape our communities.
If you’re mission-driven, a nonprofit career lets you apply your skills to causes you care about. These CPAs help organizations make the most of donor funding, ensure compliance, and improve efficiency- allowing organizations to focus on making a difference in areas like health, education, or social justice.
Some CPAs work closely with individuals and families, offering guidance through major life decisions, retirement, estate planning, or managing long-term care for loved ones. This work is personal, relationship-based, and often deeply rewarding.
Public accounting offers the opportunity to work with diverse clients, from individuals to large corporations. CPAs in this field provide auditing, tax strategy, and consulting services. Whether at a global firm or your own practice, public accounting offers a strong foundation and lots of room to grow.
CPAs are transforming business by applying new technologies. From analyzing big data to strengthening cybersecurity or implementing new financial systems, CPAs are helping businesses adapt and thrive.
Specializations That Evolve with You
Your CPA career doesn’t have to follow a straight line. Some CPAs even take their expertise and launch entirely new ventures, like Michigan CPA Paul Glantz, who used his background to co-found Emagine Entertainment. Whether you're drawn to emerging trends or inspired to build something of your own, there's always a new direction to explore.
Why the CPA Credential Stands Out
- $79,284 is the median U.S. salary for accountants and auditors.
Becker CPA Salary Guide
- Profession expected to grow by 6% between 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations.
BLS Job Outlook
- CPAs can boost their earnings by $1 million of their lifetime compared to a non-CPA in the same position.
ThisWayToCPA – Why CPA?