Continuing Professional Education News and Trends
Keeping up on industry changes as part of continuing education classes for accounting professionals
CPE seminars, self study, online courses and in-house training are all part of the continuing education not only required but necessary for many of those in the accounting industry. Requirements vary from state to state; however, all states require that a certain number of continuing education hours be completed.There are many professional associations that offer CPE courses for accountants. But it's also up to the accountant to stay updated on new laws, trends and other news that will affect their work on a day-to-day basis.
With the vast amount and constant stream of continuing professional education news and trends, you'll want to be prepared and have a handle on the best resources to process that information. Consider the following:
1. Some trends indicate online CPE courses and self-study options can be difficult because of self-motivation in finding the time to complete the required coursework.
2. Maintaining a certified public accountant license takes up to 40 hours a year of CPE courses for CPAs, depending on the license-issuing state. Know your number.
3. Trends indicate that some employers' policies encourage continuing professional education for CPAs beyond the minimum hours required for maintaining licenses.
Subscribe to journals or magazines to promote accounting continuing education
Employers may consider subscribing to the top association journals and magazines and having them sent directly to the office. That way, when accountants are on their work breaks, they can flip through and pick up new information in an easy way.
Try: Peruse the American Accounting Association's different journals and rates. Use Magazine Agent to renew or subscribe to Accounting Today magazine.
Utilize online resources to realize new opportunities in continuing education for CPAs
Encourage employees to bookmark great online resources to help them with their continuing education needs. Checking these resources on a regular basis can provide updated information fast.
Try: To stay current on trends in your field, check out the headlines at SmartPros. If you conduct business in California, download the California Society of CPAs CPE Program Guide and sign up for other information.
Stay in the know with e-mail alerts on continuing professional education trends in the industry
Find yourself lagging behind? Consider e-mail newsletters and alerts on keeping up with changes in the accounting industry. Many associations and companies provide this service for free.
Try: Sign up for FunCPE to receive e-mail alerts about upcoming continuing education courses. CFO Publishing offers e-mail newsletters in a variety of categories including accounting and auditing.
- As an employer, encourage accountants at your firm to apply for membership into national, state or local accounting organizations. These organizations not only help accountants track down CPE classes but also provide networking opportunities, advocacy and other resources.
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