How Do I Become a CPA

CPA…What do these three letters mean to the professional world? They mean you have received a broad-based education. They mean you have passed all parts of a very difficult exam. They mean you have the knowledge, skills and abilities to be a trusted business advisor to your clients or employer. They mean you feel comfortable with the latest technology. They mean you are an ethical individual who can provide an independent viewpoint.

Preparing for the Exam

To become a CPA in Tennessee, candidates must obtain 150 semester hours of education and must earn a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university. This must include 30 semester hours in accounting (24 of which must be in upper division courses) and 24 semester hours in business courses (12 of which must be in upper division courses). The candidate must then pass the Uniform CPA Examination, pass an ethics examination given by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) with a score of 90% or better, and complete one year of experience in accounting acceptable to the Board.

Our Master of Science in Accounting program includes the opportunity to take 6 credit hours of CPA Exam Preparation (ACCT 7626 and ACCT 7627) in concert with the Becker CPA Review. For information on these courses contact Dr. James Lukawitz.

The Uniform CPA Examination is delivered in a computer-based format at Prometric and state-board authorized test centers across the United States. To apply to take the examination and find additional information, go to www.tscpa.com/education. For test center information, or to use the Test Center Locator & Scheduler, go to www.prometric.com/cpa. From this site, CPA candidates can quickly determine the most convenient center at their chosen location, and schedule or "reserve" a seat and time.

For more information on preparing for and taking the CPA exam in Tennessee, follow these links: