To become a forensic accountant, one needs an accounting degree and certification in forensic accounting or fraud examination. Joining a professional organization and gaining real-world experience is also essential. Forensic accountants examine accounting practices for illegal or fraudulent activities and may be called to testify in court.
To become a forensic accountant, a candidate will need to earn a degree in accounting along with a special certification in forensic accounting or a fraud exam. The more credentials someone obtains, the more money he can demand for services and the more credibility he will gain in a court of law. As forensic accountants focus on examining accounting practices for the purpose of testifying in court or helping to build a legal process, many seek as many certifications as possible to become very credible authorities.
Forensic accounting is a branch of the accounting field that focuses on examining accounting practices and records to determine whether or not illegal or fraudulent activities have taken place. Forensic accountants may be called in when a company is audited, when law enforcement officials suspect someone of engaging in illegal activity, or when a lawyer wants someone to testify in court on an accounting-related matter as an expert witness.
The first step in becoming a forensic accountant is to receive an accounting degree from a college that offers these degrees and to take the certified public accountant (CPA) exam. Once someone becomes a CPA, he or she can go into accounting practice, which can provide valuable real-world experience, but additional courses are usually needed to become a forensic accountant.
One option is to take classes that will result in a degree in forensic accounting. It is also possible to become a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), an individual who has received specialized training that helps him or her detect signs of fraud and illegal activity. Several colleges offer fraud certification and training in forensic accounting, and some have master’s degrees in forensic accounting available for people who want to become highly skilled.
Once someone gets the necessary training, it is beneficial to join a professional organization of forensic accountants. Belonging to a professional organization increases credibility and also provides access to workshops, publications and other materials that will help one keep up with the field. Many forensic accounts also belong to the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners, a worldwide organization that promotes excellence and integrity in fraud examination.
Even with qualifications, it helps to have real practice. Working with an experienced forensic accountant is an excellent idea to start with, as it will offer plenty of training opportunities as well as real-world exposure to fraudulent accounting practices. It also helps to act as a regular accountant because this helps a forensic accountant maintain accounting skills and keep up with changes in legislation and policies related to accounting.
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