Additional Information
In order to become an accountant, you need at least a bachelor's degree
in economics, commerce, business administration or a related field. Two-year
and four-year accounting programs are offered at many colleges and universities.
"A lot of forensic accounting now is doing keyword searches of e-mails
or imaging hard drives and things like that, so some systems knowledge can
be helpful and then also some courses in psychology, like criminology type
courses... can be helpful," says James Bierstaker. He teaches auditing in
the department of accountancy at Villanova University.
After a degree, an accountant must be accredited through a professional
accounting group. Accreditation allows an accountant to use a title such as
CA (Chartered Accountant), CPA (Certified Public Accountant) or CMA (Certified
Management Accountant).
Becoming a specialized accountant, such as a forensic and litigation accountant,
requires further experience and membership in a forensic accounting specialty
group sponsored by a professional accounting association.
Those in this field may choose to be certified by the Association of Certified
Fraud Examiners. Applicants must provide proof of education and pass the association's
exam.