Rethinking the 150-hour CPA requirement
In my recent article for Accounting Today, I discuss how the shortage of accountants is negatively impacting businesses and how the educational requirements for becoming a CPA make the problem worse. As accounting professionals, we need to support standards that both promote excellence and encourage more people to enter our field.
Critical CPA licensure changes explained by industry leaders
Join industry leaders representing 70% of U.S. CPAs as they discuss significant changes to CPA licensure requirements, including the elimination of the 150-hour rule. Live webinar March 4 or available on-demand.
Minnesota bill seeks to streamline CPA licensure and end 150-hour rule
The Minnesota CPA Society’s newly introduced bill offers alternative CPA pathways—bachelor’s plus two years of work experience or master’s plus one—while preserving the 150-hour route. A House companion bill is expected soon.
From zero to CPA in record time: How Kenyth earned two degrees in just 4 months
Discover how a future CPA earned a bachelor's and master's degree in accounting in just over four months through Western Governors University (WGU). This dedicated father balanced work, family, and intense study to achieve 150 CPA credit hours in record time, spending under $10,000 for both degrees. Explore the flexible, competency-based learning model revolutionizing accounting education and career advancement.
AICPA's Barry Melancon defends 150-Hour CPA rule
In his farewell tour, outgoing AICPA CEO Barry Melancon is defending the 150-hour rule. He claims the extra year of schooling has "elevated" the profession, creating smarter, savvier CPAs. But has it really?
Could a simple licensing change increase the number of CPAs by 15%?
Thanks to Accounting Today for publishing my article "Could a simple licensing change increase the number of CPAs by 15%?" based on my podcast conversation with Sharon Lassar, Ph.D., CPA , director of the School of Accountancy at the University of Denver.
Could This Be the Fix for the Accounting Talent Shortage?
Earning a CPA license requires 150 credit hours, deterring many students from pursuing accounting. On the Accounting Podcast, Dr. Sharon Lassar of the University of Denver proposes replacing the 150 hours with a “bachelor’s degree + 2 years experience” pathway to the CPA exam. Research shows this would increase candidate volume by 15% without lowering quality by removing an unnecessary time barrier. Lassar makes a compelling case for updating licensing based on facts, addressing concerns around impacts on graduate programs and cross-state mobility. Listen now to understand the 150-hour rule controversy and whether revising requirements could help reverse the talent shortage in the accounting profession.
The California Board of Accountancy wants to know how you feel about the 150-hour rule for CPA licensure
The California Board of Accountancy is surveying applicants and licensees about educational requirements for CPA licensure! It's a short survey, so please take a couple of minutes and make sure your voice is heard.
The wild classes CPAs take for their 150 hours
Check out my latest piece in Accounting Today about the wild classes CPAs take to fulfill their 150 credit hours. Courses like pickleball, rock and roll history, and even “Alabama Dinosaurs” have enabled enterprising accountants to power through this arbitrary requirement.
CPA pipeline problems: Insights from a state society CEO
In my latest Firm of the Future article, I share insights from a recent podcast interview with Jen Cryder, CEO of the Pennsylvania Institute of CPAs. She describes a profession facing urgent questions about its future workforce.