CPA, MBA, CFO - What They Mean and How To Become One

The business world is full of abbreviations. CPA? MBA? CFO? What does it all mean? Before you send away $19.99 + shipping and handling for a decoder ring, keep reading.

Decoding the Abbreviations of the Business World

CPA

CPA stands for Certified Public Accountant and is a title which can be gained by passing the CPA examination. In addition to passing the CPA examination, the accountant must meet their own state's education and experience requirements. CPA's are responsible for auditing and approving of financial statements and transactions. Becoming a CPA is a challenging process, so CPAs hold a fair amount of distinction in the field.

MBA

Some CPAs go through post graduate classes to become an MBA. MBA stands for Master of Business Administration. Getting an MBA involves completing an undergraduate degree, and then enrolling in and completing an MBA graduate program. MBA programs come in all shapes and sizes, and are available at traditional colleges and online colleges.

CFO

MBAs occasionally go on to become CFOs, which stands for Chief Financial Officer. The CFO sits on the board of directors, and has one of the most prestigious and important positions in a company. It takes years of hard work and some good-old-fashioned luck to turn an MBA into a CFO title.

Where to Get Started

So where does it all start? An undergraduate degree in accounting is a great place to start. Accounting is an integral part of any business venture, and when it comes to the bottom line, accountants are the ones watching it. An accounting degree can get gotten from a tradition brick and mortar college, or online. Most traditional colleges offer an accounting program, and there are also many options for an Online Accounting Associates Degree.

If you are already working in another field, but you would like to begin a career in accounting, you should look into adult education curriculum. These classes are geared towards working adults and are scheduled in the evenings when most adults don't have to work. These courses are a great way to start on a new career while continuing to work at your current job.

Get Started on Your New Accounting Career

Now you know about CPAs, MBAs, and CFOs, as well as how to get started on the path to become one. If you are not happy with your current career path, you should get started today on a new career in the accounting field.