Becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is a great way to start a successful career in accounting, finance, or business. If you enjoy working with numbers, solving problems, or making financial decisions, a CPA license can lead to exciting jobs in public accounting, companies, government, or nonprofits.

At Webber International University, our Accounting program helps future CPAs gain real-world experience, learn flexibly, and have a strong academic foundation.

Here’s a simple guide to becoming a CPA—and how Webber can support you every step of the way.

Step 1: Build a Strong Academic Foundation

Becoming a CPA starts with the proper education. Webber International University offers degree programs to fit each step of your academic and career path.

Associate of Science in Business Administration, Accounting Concentration: This program provides core accounting principles, financial analysis, and knowledge of business fundamentals. It’s ideal for those starting their careers and looking to gain essential skills for entry-level accounting roles.

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Accounting Concentration: The bachelor’s program deepens your expertise in financial reporting, taxation, auditing, and regulatory frameworks. It’s a crucial step toward meeting the education requirements for CPA eligibility and positions you for roles in public accounting, government finance, or nonprofit organizations.

Master of Business Administration (MBA), Accounting Concentration:

Webber’s Accounting MBA teaches advanced finance, leadership, and accounting skills. It’s perfect for CPA candidates who want credentials like the CMA.

Step 2: Meet the CPA Exam Requirements

Each state has its own CPA licensure requirements, but most require:

A bachelor’s degree with a specified number of credit hours in accounting and business.
A total of 150 semester hours of education (which may require a master’s degree or additional coursework).
Completing specific accounting and business courses, such as auditing, taxation, financial accounting, and business law.

Webber’s curriculum is designed with these requirements in mind, helping students seamlessly transition from education to examination.

Step 3: Gain Practical Experience

To become a CPA, you need 1–2 years of work experience with a licensed CPA. At Webber, internships and real-world projects give you that experience while building the skills employers want—like problem-solving, analysis, and communication—so you’re ready for the job from day one.

Step 4: Pass the CPA Exam

The CPA Exam is a rigorous four-part assessment administered by the AICPA. It covers:

Auditing and Attestation (AUD)
Business Environment and Concepts (BEC)
Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
Regulation (REG)

Webber’s industry-driven curriculum ensures students are well-prepared with up-to-date knowledge and critical test-taking skills. Graduates are encouraged to begin CPA exam preparation during their final academic year or immediately after graduation.

Step 5: Apply for Licensure and Stay Compliant

Once you’ve passed all parts of the CPA exam and fulfilled your experience requirements, the next step is applying for your CPA license through your state’s Board of Accountancy.

CPAs must also complete Continuing Professional Education (CPE) annually to maintain their licenses. Webber’s graduate programs and lifelong learning support help professionals advance their knowledge throughout their careers.

Why Choose Webber International University?

At Webber, we understand that today’s students need a flexible, accessible, and career-ready education. Here’s what sets our Accounting program apart:

Flexible Learning Options: Complete courses online or on campus to suit your schedule.
Career-Ready Skills: Learn practical skills that prepare you for in-demand roles like CPA, tax consultant, internal auditor, or financial analyst.
Professional Mentorship: Study under faculty with real-world experience and connections in the accounting industry.
High-Impact Learning: Engage in internships and real-world projects
That aligns with the needs of today’s businesses.

Ready to Start Your CPA Journey?

A CPA designation is more than a title—it symbolizes trust, expertise, and professionalism. With the proper education, guidance, and preparation from Webber International University, you can build a rewarding, long-term career in accounting and finance.

Start your CPA journey today—explore Webber’s Accounting programs and take your first step toward a prosperous future.