Earn A CPA Certificate Online
- Aligned with the 2024 CPA Exam disciplines
- $637/credit (12 credits each)
- Pursue a certificate & MS in Accounting to earn both for 36 credits or less
- Advanced learning in accounting's most prominent areas
Online CPA Graduate Certificates Overview
As one of the most prominent and respected professional credentials in the field of accounting, the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation remains a critical test of skills for the most adept accountants.
Over time, the roles and responsibilities of a CPA have evolved to require additional competencies in areas such as analysis, auditing and tax. To account for this change, the 2024 CPA Exam has been revised and will require candidates to choose one of three discipline areas in which to demonstrate greater knowledge and specialize.
Graduate certificates were specifically designed by Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) to correspond with each of those disciplines and provide students with additional preparation for the exam’s redesign. Though not required, you may pursue one of these certificates and an online MS in Accounting at the same time to earn both for 36 credits or less — saving you both time and money. Additionally, the coupling may satisfy the 150 credit hours required for CPA Exam eligibility in most states.
"This could be valuable for a student who needs more content to prepare for the CPA exam," said Mona Stephens, accounting faculty lead at SNHU.
Business Analysis and Reporting for Accounting
Gain in-depth knowledge of business analytics, financial reporting and managerial accounting.
Introduced in 2023, the Business Analysis and Reporting for Accounting Graduate Certificate is an ideal choice if you're:
- A BA/BS in Accounting graduate
- Selecting the 2024 CPA Exam's Business Analysis and Reporting discipline
- Seeking to upskill or reskill in this specialized area of advanced accounting
This certificate explores advanced topics within predictive analytics, data cleaning and analysis, public accounting, foreign currency and strategic business decisions. More specifically, it can help you gain skills and experience in:
- Forecasting
- Internal controls
- Strategic planning
- Financial, system and data analysis
- Government accounting
- Data visualization
- Statistical modeling
- Critical thinking
- Written communication
The curriculum integrates business and data analytics, which satisfies essential, emerging skills for accountants. It also relates data analytics to financial risk, planning techniques and projections and greatly emphasizes data-driven decisions.
Seeking employment in state or local government accounting? This program is a great fit. It can prepare you for roles like financial/investment analyst, budget analyst, controller and financial manager.
To successfully earn this certificate, you'll be required to take 12 credits — nine of which overlap with SNHU's MS in Accounting degree.
The certificate's core classes include:
QSO-511: Business Analytics
Master the fundamental concepts and tools needed to understand the emerging role of business analytics in organizations.
ACC-690: Advanced Topics in Financial Reporting
Explore advanced financial reporting topics in accounting for investments, foreign currency transactions, and state and local governmental accounting.
ACC-735 Advanced Managerial Accounting
Focus on the role of managerial-level accountants in providing organizations the financial and operational data analysis required to advance strategic goals.
QSO-570 Predictive Business Analytics
Learn to apply the principles, tools and techniques of predictive analytics using Excel and other popular data analytics software.
If you don't hold an undergraduate accounting or business degree, you may be required to complete business foundation courses (6 credits) and/or accounting foundation courses (12 credits).
Information Systems and Controls
Master the areas of auditing, accounting information systems, information security and attestation.
Introduced in 2023, the Information Systems and Controls Graduate Certificate is an ideal choice if you're:
- A BA/BS in Accounting graduate
- Selecting the 2024 CPA Exam's Information Systems and Controls discipline
- Seeking to upskill or reskill in this specialized area of advanced accounting
This certificate explores advanced topics within accounting information system controls, information technology infrastructure and emerging attestation. More specifically, it can help you gain skills and experience in:
- Auditing
- Business operations
- Information systems
- Ethical conduct
- Risk assessment and management
- System integration and analysis
- Project management
- Communication and research
The curriculum focuses on the intersection of technology with accounting and finance, including:
- Information security and cyber risks
- Business intelligence, data management and analytics
- IT governance, risks and controls
- Security, confidentiality and privacy
You'll hone in on assurance and advisory services relating to business processes, information systems and security, data governance, internal control testing and IT audits.
Seeking to become a financial/system auditor? This program is a great fit.
To successfully earn this certificate, you'll be required to take 12 credits — nine of which overlap with SNHU's MS in Accounting degree.
This certificate's core classes include:
ACC-640: Auditing
Learn the various aspects of completing an engagement for an audit and apply industry frameworks and governing standards to the audit planning process.
ACC-676: Audit of Accounting Information Systems
Explore the area of auditing specific to accounting information systems and internal controls.
ACC-677: Information Systems Assurance and Advising
Gain an understanding of IT governance and strategy within organizations and examine how IT governance is constructed.
ACC-705: Advanced Topics in Information Systems and Controls
Study the SOC engagement process and learn how to evaluate risk within a system.
If you don't hold an undergraduate accounting or business degree, you may be required to complete business foundation courses (6 credits) and/or accounting foundation courses (12 credits).
Tax Compliance and Planning
Learn the ins and outs of corporate federal income tax, taxation specialties and personal finance/advisory services.
Introduced in 2023, the Tax Compliance and Planning Graduate Certificate is an ideal choice if you're:
- A BA/BS in Accounting graduate
- Selecting the 2024 CPA Exam's Tax Compliance and Planning discipline
- Seeking to upskill or reskill in this specialized area of advanced accounting
This certificate explores advanced topics like the IRS audit process and representation, impacts of contemporary tax legislation, tax codes and compliance standards, and financial planning. More specifically, it can help you gain skills and experience in:
- Tax planning, preparation and returns
- Tax law
- Analysis
- Financial management
- Strategic planning
- Accounting
- Data visualization
- Critical thinking
- Research and communication
The curriculum focuses on advanced individual and corporate tax compliance, in addition to consolidated tax return and multi-jurisdictional tax issues.
You'll focus on assurance and advisory services relating to business processes, information systems and security, data governance, internal control testing and IT audits.
Seeking to become a tax examiner/collector, tax accountant, personal financial specialist or revenue agent? This program is a great fit.
To earn this certificate, you'll be required to take 12 credits — six of which overlap with SNHU's MS in Accounting degree.
This certificate's core classes include:
TAX-655: Federal Income Tax of Corporations and Partnerships
Explore taxation regulations, legislature and procedures specific to corporations and partnerships.
TAX-700: Special Topics in Taxation
Examine the IRS audit and examination process, as well as multi-jurisdictional and multi-national tax issues.
TAX-705: Personal Financial Advisory Services
Study the specialized field of personal financial advisory services as it relates to tax planning.
Free Elective
It's recommended to choose an advanced ACC or TAX course — or a course from the MS in Accounting program.
If you don't hold an undergraduate accounting or business degree, you may be required to complete business foundation courses (6 credits) and/or accounting foundation courses (12 credits).
Licensing requirements to sit for the CPA exam vary from state to state, with many requiring 150 semester hours of education from an accredited college or university. Students are encouraged to review their state-specific board requirements prior to enrolling in a graduate accounting program. State-by-state educational requirements can be found on the website of the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA). Completion of an aligned educational program does not guarantee success on the CPA exam.
What You'll Learn
- Statistical analysis methods and models
- Financial data communication techniques
- Data-driven narratives
- Data governance, system and management process critiques
- Financial and tax documentation analysis and preparation
- Optimal financial planning strategies
How You'll Learn
At SNHU, you'll get support from day 1 to graduation and beyond. And with no set class times, 24/7 access to the online classroom and helpful learning resources along the way, you'll have everything you need to reach your goals.
Career Outlook
Earning one of these certificates can position you for CPA Exam success and help you gain skills applicable to a number of roles. Here are some of the careers you could pursue in alignment with each individual certificate:
Business Analysis and Reporting for Accounting
- Budget analyst
- Controller
- Financial manager
Information Systems and Controls
- Financial manager
- Accountant
- Auditors
Tax Compliance and Planning
- Tax examiner
- Revenue agent
- Tax preparer
To a potential employer, a CPA designation indicates "high ethical standards, valuable experience, [and] a superior education."1
Statistics reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) mimic this sentiment, as prospects for roles typically held by CPAs — like accountants and financial managers — appear promising in the coming years.2 This increased demand can be attributed to a multitude of factors, including globalization and a growing economy.2
Job Growth
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for accountants and auditors is expected to grow 6% through 2031 and 17% for financial managers.2
Salary
In 2021, the median annual salary was $77,250 for accountants and auditors, while it was $131,710 for financial managers.2
Start Your Journey Into Advanced Accounting
Why SNHU for your CPA Certificate
Flexible
With no set class meeting times, you can learn on your schedule and access online course materials 24/7. You can also craft your educational pathway to fit your life and career. Some of our certificate programs, for example, can stack into an associate, bachelor’s or master’s program — helping you build the skills and credentials you need to succeed.
Affordable
As part of our mission to make higher education more accessible, we’re committed to keeping our tuition rates low. In fact, we offer some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation.
You could also earn college credit for previous work experience or professional credentials — saving you time and money.
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 160,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), a regional accreditor, which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
- U.S. News & World Report named SNHU the 2021 Most Innovative University in the North and one of the nation's "Best Regional Universities"
- Awarded the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology by The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
- A $1 million grant from Google.org to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
Network
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 300,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
93.6% of online students would recommend SNHU (according to a 2022 survey with 17,000+ respondents). Discover why SNHU may be right for you.
Admission Requirements
Expanding access to quality higher education means removing the barriers that may stand between you and your degree. That’s why you can apply at any time and get a decision within days of submitting all required materials:
- Completed free application
- Undergraduate transcripts, which we can retrieve for you by submitting a transcript request form
Acceptance decisions are made on a rolling basis throughout the year for our 5 graduate terms.
How to Apply
If you’re ready to apply, follow these simple steps to get the process going:
- Complete free graduate application
- Submit undergraduate transcripts
- Walk through the application process with an admission counselor
Courses & Curriculum
The curriculum for each of these certificates is carefully designed to align with content within the 2024 CPA Exam's discipline areas. All enrollees are required to earn 12 credits' worth of core classes, but these courses will vary based on your chosen certificate:
Business Analysis and Reporting for Accounting
- QSO-511 Business Analytics
- ACC-690 Advanced Topics in Financial Reporting
- ACC-735 Advanced Managerial Accounting
- QSO-570 Predictive Business Analytics
Information Systems and Controls
- ACC-640 Auditing
- ACC-676 Audit of Accounting Information Systems
- ACC-677 Information System Assurance and Advising
- ACC-705 Advanced Topics in Information Systems and Controls
Tax Compliance and Planning
- TAX-655 Federal Income Tax of Corporations and Partnerships
- TAX-700 Special Topics in Taxation
- TAX-705 Personal Financial Advisory Services
- Free Elective
If you don't hold an undergraduate accounting or business degree, you may also be required to complete business foundation courses (6 credits) and/or accounting foundation courses (12 credits).
View Full Curriculum in the Catalog
CPA Certificates Technical Requirements
Communication Platform:
- Mac or PC desktop or laptop (not a mobile device or tablet)
- Webcam
- Microphone
- Required: At least 1 Mbps upload/download speed
- Learn more about our detailed technical requirements
Internet Connectivity for Business Analysis & Reporting Certificate's Virtual Lab:
- Recommended: 5 Mbps upload/download speed with less than 40ms latency
Minimum Hardware Required Specifications
Component Type |
PC (Windows OS) |
Apple (Mac OS) |
---|---|---|
Operating System |
Currently supported operating system from Microsoft. |
Currently supported operating system from Apple. |
Memory (RAM) |
8GB or higher |
8GB or higher |
Hard Drive |
100GB or higher |
100GB or higher |
Antivirus Software |
Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
SNHU Purchase Programs |
||
Internet/ Bandwidth |
5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100 ms Latency |
5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100 ms Latency |
Notes:
- Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.
- Note: Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device. SNHU does, however, have an affordable laptop option that it recommends: Dell Latitude 3301 with Windows 10.
- Office 365 Pro Plus is available free of charge to all SNHU students and faculty. The Office suite will remain free while you are a student at SNHU. Upon graduation you may convert to a paid subscription if you wish. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion. Review system requirements for Microsoft 365 plans for business, education and government.
- Antivirus software: Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
University Accreditation
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) as well as several other accrediting bodies.
Tuition & Fees
At SNHU, we’re committed to making education more accessible by making it more affordable.
Beyond low tuition rates, we help our students save through transfer credits, credit for prior learning, grants and scholarships, tuition assistance and more. Full- and part-time U.S. service members (as well as the spouses of those on active duty) are additionally eligible for a 25% tuition discount.
All three of these certificate programs are eligible for Federal Student Aid.
Online Graduate Programs | Per Course | Per Credit Hour | Annual Cost for 15 credits |
---|---|---|---|
Degree/Certificates | $1,911 | $637 | $9,555 |
Degree/Certificates (U.S. service members, both full and part time, and the spouses of those on active duty)* |
$1,410 | $470 | $7,050 |
Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.
*Note: students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional Costs:
No Application Fee, Course Materials ($ varies by course)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is changing about the 2024 CPA Exam?
The 2024 Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Exam update is the result of new skill demands and technological advances within the field of accounting.
With the revision, some elements will change, while others will remain the same. Three existing core sections — Auditing and Attestation (AUD), Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR), and Taxing and Regulation (REG) — will be retained.3 The Business Environment and Concepts (BEC) section, however, will be interspersed throughout the exam.3
In addition to its emphasis on technology, the new exam will allow you to choose one of three specialized discipline units based on your interests and career goals. These areas have been identified as core disciplines for advanced accounting professionals and include3:
- Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR)
- Information Systems and Controls (ISC)
- Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP)
SNHU’s associate dean of business Ann McLaughlin thinks the new exam will appeal to the next generation and reshape the field of accounting as it "requires students to understand how to perform data analysis and research, which shifts the narrative of the traditional accounting role."
McLaughlin also notes SNHU's redeveloped MS in Accounting program "takes into account these movements within the profession to ensure our students are prepared for this new environment.”
SNHU students who would like to earn a CPA designation are encouraged to pursue an MS in Accounting degree and a CPA discipline certificate simultaneously to satisfy eligibility and preparatory needs for the CPA Exam. This approach also allows you to graduate with two credentials instead of one.
NOTE: Eligibility requirements differ from state to state. Successful completion of an accounting degree program does not guarantee exam eligibility or success. Students should check with the individual requirements for their state prior to enrolling in a degree program.
Which is harder: CMA or CPA?
Earning a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation is generally considered more challenging than earning a Certified Management Accountant (CMA) designation. However, the career paths for each can greatly differ, and many individuals within the accounting field opt to pursue both.
A CPA is an accountant with a credential that signals a baseline of knowledge and demonstrated proficiency in key financial areas. They often work at banks, tax services, insurance companies, government offices, private enterprises and auditing services.
Conversely, a CMA is an individual with a credential that offers the insight and aptitude to leverage accounting practices with keen business insights to make strategic decisions. They hold roles like accountant/auditor, budget analyst, financial manager, management analyst, financial/investment analyst and financial risk specialist. Learn about SNHU's graduate-level Management Accounting Certificate.
Regardless of the designation you select, you'll be well on your way to a respected accounting career.
Is getting a CPA worth it?
Yes, earning a CPA designation is absolutely worth your time and effort. Though you can work as an an accountant without becoming a CPA, it's widely considered to be the industry-standard designation of quality and trust.
As a CPA, you'll have the experience and expertise needed to perform functions a non-certified accountant can’t, like audits, reviews and taxation services. Non-certified accountants can't audit public companies, issue audit reports or opinion letters, or review public company financial statements for the SEC. And only a CPA can sign a client’s tax return as a paid preparer and represent the client in front of the IRS.
Furthermore, CPAs can often earn a higher salary. According to the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) and The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), "CPAs charge more for their services and earn up to 15% higher salaries because they’re bound to high standards of work, ethics and professionalism. They have to be, because the State Boards of Accountancy may review their work and can revoke their license if necessary."1
How hard is the CPA Exam?
The CPA Exam is challenging by design. As businesses, technology and regulatory standards have evolved, the scope of CPA-required knowledge has expanded. Consequently, valued certifications like the CPA Exam have expanded their breadth of content in order to cover more critical areas.
The 2024 CPA Exam puts a greater emphasis on technology than ever before and includes task-based simulation-style questions.3 It includes four total sections, three of which are retained from earlier versions of the exam3:
- Auditing and Attestation (AUD)
- Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
- Taxation and Regulation (REG)
The fourth section of the exam allows candidates to select one of three brand-new discipline areas3:
- Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR)
- Information Systems and Controls (ISC)
- Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP)
This element of choice is new to the CPA Exam and allows you to focus your studies on areas of interest and career goals.
Which is better: MBA or CPA?
A Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree is an impressive achievement, as is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation. That said, your career goals can help inform which is a better choice for you.
An MBA is a graduate-level business degree designed to give professionals the critical knowledge they need to step into management and leadership roles in companies. The degree can be used as a tool to advance your career in nearly any industry, from business to finance.
On the other hand, a CPA is a designation that represents expertise in public accounting. They focus on auditing and reviewing financial statements, often working in places like a bank or government office. In most states, a CPA credential requires both a bachelor's and master's in accounting.
Occasionally, a student will opt to earn both credentials. If they've already earned an MBA online, or on campus, and want to become a CPA, they can broadly approach the field of accounting having potentially already met the educational requirements of the CPA Exam.
How long does it take to study for CPA?
The 2024 CPA Exam has been newly revised, but includes four sections, like previous versions. According to multiple sources, candidates spend roughly 80-100 hours per each section, which averages out to approximately 300-400 hours of total studying.4
However, everyone learns differently, and you should take as long as you need to feel completely confident in your abilities.
Is a CPA the same as an accountant?
No, a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is not the same as an accountant. While all CPAs are accountants, not all accountants are CPAs.
To earn the highly respected designation of CPA, you must successfully pass the CPA Exam, which demonstrates your expertise in public accounting. With this credential, you can perform functions a non-certified accountant can't, like defending tax returns to the IRS or state authorities and preparing formal audited financial statements.
Accountants, on the other hand, hold roles that span varying levels of required skills and experience. At some businesses, accountants may be those responsible for managing the books, including recording financial transactions and managing accounts payable and receivable. They may also be responsible for departmental budgeting, auditing and even payroll.
Both CPAs and accountants fill a tremendously important roles — which one you choose is ultimately dependent on the tasks you want to perform on a regular basis.
How to become an accountant?
The first step in becoming an accountant is earning an undergraduate accounting certificate or degree in accounting. It's important to note that education requirements beyond that will depend greatly on which type of accountant you would like to become. For instance, someone who would like to be a general accountant may need to earn an AS in Accounting, while someone angling to become a CPA is likely to earn an MS in Accounting.
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References
Sources & Citations (1, 2, 3, 4)
- https://www.thiswaytocpa.com/segmented-landing/salary-information/ (viewed May 16, 2023)
- https://www.thiswaytocpa.com/why-cpa/articles/salary-information/licensed-to-earn/ (viewed May 16, 2023)
2 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at:
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/accountants-and-auditors.htm#tab-6 (viewed May 16, 2023)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/financial-managers.htm#tab-6 (viewed May 16, 2023)
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.
3 Journal of Accountancy, 2024 CPA Exam Blueprints Released, on the internet, at https://www.journalofaccountancy.com/news/2023/jan/2024-cpa-exam-blueprints-released.html (June 1, 2023)
4 Test Prep Insight, How Long Does It Take To Study for the CPA Exam?, on the internet, at https://testprepinsight.com/resources/how-long-study-cpa-exam/#:~:text=For%20the%20average%20candidate%2C%20you,each%20section%20of%20the%20test (viewed May 16, 2023)