Pathway to CPA
Florida Southern College offers specialized classes designed to prepare students to meet the eligibility requirements to sit for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam in Florida. These courses cover a comprehensive range of topics essential for success in the accounting profession, including financial accounting, managerial accounting, taxation, auditing, and business law. Taught by experienced faculty members with industry expertise, these classes provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the demanding field of accounting and to fulfill the educational requirements mandated by the Florida Board of Accountancy. By completing these courses, students can confidently pursue their goal of becoming a CPA and contribute effectively to the accounting profession.
Career Advancement
A CPA license opens doors to higher-level positions in accounting firms, corporations, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. It can lead to increased responsibilities, promotions, and higher salaries.Top Reasons
Professional Credibility
Holding a CPA license signifies a high level of expertise, competence, and ethical standards in the field of accounting. Clients, employers, and peers often place greater trust in CPAs for financial advice, auditing services, and tax compliance.Expanded Job Opportunities
Many employers in Florida specifically seek candidates with CPA credentials for accounting and finance positions. Having a CPA license can significantly enhance job prospects and provide access to a wider range of career opportunities.Legal Requirements
In Florida, certain accounting roles, such as auditing financial statements for publicly traded companies, require individuals to hold an active CPA license. Obtaining licensure ensures compliance with state regulations and enhances eligibility for specific job roles.Increased Earning Potential
CPAs typically command higher salaries compared to non-certified accountants. In Florida, CPA licensure often translates to higher earning potential and greater financial stability over the course of one's career.Professional Development
Maintaining a CPA license in Florida requires ongoing continuing education, which helps CPAs stay abreast of changes in accounting standards, tax laws, and regulations. This commitment to lifelong learning fosters professional growth and ensures relevance in a dynamic industry.Prestige and Recognition
Achieving CPA status is widely respected within the accounting profession and among business communities in Florida. It demonstrates dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence, garnering respect from peers and clients alike.Meet Our Mocs
Charles Gotsch
Chase Ibbotson
Daphne Compere
Edgar Sandoval
Katie Sharp
Rea Joerger
AACSB Accredited
Accreditation by AACSB is the mark of excellence in business education earned by fewer than six percent of business schools worldwide.Educational Requirements in Florida
To sit for the CPA Exam
- 120 semester hours
- 24 semester hours of upper-division accounting coursework to include coverage of auditing, financial, taxation and cost/managerial (3000 level or above)
- 24 semester hours of general business coursework, including 3 semester hours of business law.
For CPA Licensure
- 150 semester hours (Baccalaureate degree w/major in accounting or its equivalent plus at least 30 semester hours more than those hours required for a 4-year degree)
- 30 semester hours of upper-division accounting coursework to include coverage of auditing, financial, taxation and cost/managerial (above the 2000 level)
- 36 semester hours of general business coursework including 3 semester hours of business law
- 1-year of work experience verified by a licensed CPA. This includes any type of service or advice involving the use of accounting, attesting, compilation, management advisory, financial advisory, taxation or consulting skills. This may be gained in government, industry, academia or public practice. This experience requirement may be met only after completing the educational requirements to sit for the exam.
Master of Accountancy
It is recommended that students satisfy the educational licensure requirements by completing the Master of Accountancy (MAcc) Program. The master’s program provides the best preparation for entrance into the accounting profession.
For application forms and information concerning the CPA exam, go to the Florida Board of Accountancy website.
Please be advised that all information provided is for your convenience and is subject to change at any time and without notice by the Florida Division of Certified Public Accounting. Please defer to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation's Division of Certified Public Accounting website for the most up-to-date information.
Program Details
Admission Requirements
To apply as a non-degree student, you should follow the application process specific to the field in which the course is offered.
Bachelor's Level Courses
Complete an adult undergraduate non-degree application
Provide the following application materials:
- Official transcripts from all previous institutions
Master's Level Courses
Complete the graduate business non-degree application
Provide the following application materials:
- Official transcripts from all previous institutions
Course Delivery
Hybrid
Offered in a convenient hybrid of traditional and online coursework, with students meeting in a classroom on campus two Tuesdays per month and the remaining assignments completed in a convenient online format.
Program Costs
2023-2024
| Base Required Fees | Cost |
| Tuition Per Credit Hour | $850 |
| Technology fee per semester is based on credit hours enrolled | $25 to $100 |
2024-2025
| Base Required Fees | Cost |
| Tuition Per Credit Hour | $875 |
| Technology fee per semester is based on credit hours enrolled | $25 to $100 |
$250 Non-Refundable Enrollment Deposit (Upon acceptance and applied toward your first semester tuition balance)
