If you’re in high school, you understand pressure. Teachers, parents, exams, after-school projects and programs. If that’s not enough, as you get closer to graduation, you start getting asked “What will your major be in college?”

If you landed here because you think accounting might be your answer, or you’re just curious about what exactly accountants do, then you came to the right place.

What do accountants do?


Many people think that accountants only prepare taxes, but that simply isn’t true. For instance, every celeb, music mogul, and sports star has an accountant. Some accountants are FBI agents—they carry a guns and work undercover; some are forensic accountants, the private detectives of the business world.

So if you like the limelight, or thrive on adrenaline, there are multiple opportunities as an ambitious accountant. Business leaders in the world’s most influential firms seek out young movers and shakers who can think analytically, communicate effectively, and lead innovatively: hallmarks of the CPA skill set.

How to Become a CPA


In order to become a certified public accountant (CPAs are licensed professionals)—you will need to achieve three things:
  • Earn 150 college credit credits from an accredited accounting program
  • Pass the Uniform CPA Examination
  • One year of full-time accounting experience

Getting Started


Interested in becoming one of the new rock stars of the accounting world or want to learn just a little bit more? Your first step should be This Way to CPA, the AICPA's professional development guide to help you learn more about the profession and navigating your future in accounting.