Internal auditors review financial and accounting methods, looking for discrepancies. To become an internal auditor, a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or Accounting is required, and a master’s degree is preferred. Certification, such as the Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), is also necessary. Job opportunities are available in both public and private sectors.
Internal auditors review the internal financial and accounting methods of a company or government agency. Internal auditors look for differences between what was reported and what financial documents state. To become an internal auditor, you must receive proper education and certifications. Typically, this is an entry-level position.
To become an internal auditor, you must first earn at least a bachelor’s degree. This degree in Business Administration or Accounting will give you the education that will best prepare you to become an internal auditor. Many companies prefer applicants who also hold a master’s degree, such as an MBA.
Auditors, like accountants, have certifications they can earn to help them continue their careers. One such certification, the Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), is offered by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA). It’s a four-part exam that you can take if you want to become an internal auditor. The exam covers accounting, taxation, finance, technology, internal controls and other business-related areas.
To receive full certification, you must pass all four sections, although many employers will give employment to candidates who are still in the process of taking each of the exams. To become an internal auditor for a government agency, you may also need to take a civil service exam. This exam will cover internal audit policies and procedures.
The process of finding job opportunities to become an internal auditor is similar to looking for an accounting job, but it can be a little easier. If a company is publicly owned, it is likely necessary to have an internal auditor on staff to ensure that all stock transactions are completed legally. Companies that are not publicly owned also employ internal auditors to ensure that their accounting and financial affairs are in order. Governments also employ internal auditors in their agencies to ensure that all laws are being followed.
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