Studying Accountancy: The Professional Option

Suzanne Shaw, Director Business Development, Institute of Certified Public Accountants in Ireland (CPA)

They say there are very few recession proof professions, but accountancy certainly comes close. The majority of graduates seeking a secure future as an accountant are opting for a professional qualification like that offered by the Institute of Certified Public Accountants in Ireland (CPA), knowing it will be recognised world-wide and will therefore greatly improve their chances to obtain well-paid employment.

The CPA is one of the main Irish accountancy bodies with in excess of 5,000 members and students. “The CPA is the most commonly used designation for professional accountants worldwide, making it a highly portable qualification”, said Suzanne Shaw, Director Business Development, CPA.

She added, “With more than 1300 students currently pursuing a CPA qualification, the CPA is one of the fastest growing professional bodies in Ireland. The success of CPAs in securing employment in industry, the public sector and private practice in over 30 countries, reflects the value of a CPA qualification and the regard with which it is held, not only in Ireland but abroad.

“Our success, and the success of our students, reflects the strength of the CPA syllabus. The syllabus is continually changing to ensure that CPA accountants are progressive, innovative and proactive strategists capable of understanding and contributing towards every facet of a business. CPA gives students the option of tailoring their studies depending on whether they wish to work in industry or in professional practice.

The CPA qualification is open to all and the Institute attracts students from all walks of life. For those opting to pursue a CPA qualification following the completion of a business or accounting related qualification, such as Institute of Accounting Technician examinations, exemptions are available from some CPA exams. However many students are non-business degree holders or mature students, already in the work place and looking to change their career path.

According to Shaw, “A strong trend which we are experiencing at the moment is the rise in the number of CPA applicants who are changing career or looking to increase their attractiveness to employers, which is undoubtedly being driven by the current recession”.

The CPA qualification requires three years training in either practice or industry under the supervision of a professionally qualified accountant. However this training can take place before, during or after studies.

According to Shaw, “The majority of our students to date have trained in tandem with studying for the qualification”. She added, “We offer a great deal of flexibility, which is very important to those who are changing careers. The CPA enables these students to remain in their existing profession while training and have up to three years after they sit their final exams to get their accountancy related work experience and training. This provides security during their studies. Study options are also offered on a fully flexible basis including full-time, part-time, weekends and by distance learning. CPA E-Learning, a tutor-supported online learning portal, will come on stream from September 2011.

While in training, CPA students do not have to commit to a contract with one employer only. They are allowed the freedom to move companies during training. CPA students can also put past relevant work experience towards training requirements. A particularly strong advantage with a CPA qualification is that training doesn’t stop at the point of qualification. As the first accountancy body to introduce a mandatory regime of Continuing Professional Education, the Institute ensures that all CPAs have the opportunity to remain at the leading edge, throughout their careers, by availing of relevant continuous development.

“As advisers to business, CPAs are at the heart of the economy and will be at the forefront in driving economic recovery in the years ahead. The CPA qualification is a passport to a challenging and rewarding professional career”, adds Shaw.

To register as a CPA student you must first register with the Institute directly. You can then chose from the network of CPA accredited colleges across the country.

For further information check out www.studycpa.ie, speak to Ciara Murphy on 01- 4251000 or find us on www.facebook.com/CPAIreland

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