Accounting 150-Hour Certificate

The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) recommend that all states require 150 college credit hours in order to sit for the CPA exam. Forty-nine of the fifty states have already implemented or plan to implement the new requirement.

Goldey-Beacom’s Accounting 150 Certificate Program will be tailored for each student to assure the student completes the number of credits required to sit for the exam, while taking courses in such areas as business ethics, international business management, and accounting. Credits also may be earned in courses outside the business area.

If your plans include someday taking the CPA exam, this quick and convenient program was designed especially for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

• Who would benefit from completing the Accounting 150 Certificate?
  • Current accounting majors, working accountants, or accounting graduates from any college should explore this program if they someday hope to be a CPA. If your college credit hours are less than 150 hours, you will not be eligible for the CPA exam or licensure in most states.
• How many credits will I need to complete to earn the certificate?
  • That depends on your degree. Most graduates with a bachelor’s accounting degree have already typically completed 120 to 138 of the 150 needed credit hours. Many students can complete this in just one or two semesters, while others may choose to spread study over a year. We will tailor a program just for you that will suit your schedule.
• When could I enroll in the program?
  • Students can enroll and start coursework at the beginning of any of our semesters - August, October, December, January, March, or May.
• Will the Accounting 150 Certificate help me prepare for the CPA exam?
  • Absolutely! Working with your admissions counselor, you can determine the courses that will best prepare you for the CPA exam in your state. You can reach your 150-hour goal with additional accounting classes, courses in business ethics, business law, or international business, or you can choose to focus on courses in other areas such as management, business writing, or group dynamics. We will tailor the program to help prepare you for success.
• What types of classes would I take to earn this certificate?
  • Some states may require courses in Business Ethics or International Business. You will be able to choose from many offerings, including accounting electives. You may also choose to take graduate classes to meet the requirement - and later use them toward a master degree.

Financial Aid

Many employers offer tuition assistance to their employees, but often restrict benefits to those enrolled in degree or certificate programs. While you can enroll as a non-degree-seeking student anywhere to earn additional credits, our certificate program may qualify you for the financial assistance you need.