An American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) and National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) report is advocating college accounting curricula be updated to address emerging industry topics.
“The accounting profession is becoming increasingly reliant on the use of emerging technologies, information systems, and data analytics,” Sue Coffey, CEO – Public Accounting, AICPA, said. “Businesses are increasingly seeking technology-related services and advice, and it’s important for newly licensed CPAs to be adept in their knowledge, usage, and skills. Accounting programs have a responsibility to assure their curricula and course offerings are setting students up for success in the profession.”
The analysis included responses from over 300 collegiate accounting programs to gain a broad picture of how accounting programs have incorporated new technology and other critical skills.
“The gap analysis also has implications for State Boards of Accountancy,” Dan Dustin, NASBA’s vice president, State Board Relations, said. “It’s an opportunity for boards to review their current education rules and update them to align with the future of the CPA profession and the types of skills and tools that new licensees will be using as they begin their careers.”
Per the report, many schools are including technology topics within their programs, but few offer in-depth education on each topic, while smaller programs are less likely to address them.
In June, the AICPA and NASBA will unveil a model curriculum to guide faculty in addressing accounting coursework needed by those pursuing licensure via the new CPA Evolution model.