Accountant Career: New Brunswick Steps

If you're interested in becoming an accountant in New Brunswick, you'll be glad to know that job prospects in this field are currently good. In fact, the Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS) Forecast predicts that the demand for accountants in the province will outweigh the supply between 2009 and 2018. To become an accountant in New Brunswick, you'll typically need a four-year degree. After that, you may want to consider joining a professional organisation, such as the New Brunswick Institute of Chartered Accountants or the Society of Management Accountants in the Maritime Provinces.

Get a four-year degree in accounting or a related field

To become an accountant in New Brunswick, you'll typically need to get a four-year degree in accounting or a related field. A Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Accounting is one option, and this is available at Rutgers Business School. This degree will provide you with a strong foundation in accounting principles and prepare you for the world of accounting.

Some major specializations within the field of accounting include public accounting, tax accounting, cost accounting, government accounting, budget accounting, and internal auditing. These specializations allow you to focus your studies on a particular area of interest and tailor your degree to your career aspirations.

During your four-year degree, you will take a variety of courses that cover different aspects of accounting. These courses will provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to understand and apply accounting principles and practices. Some of the courses you may encounter include:

• Intro to Managerial Accounting
• Business Forum
• Accounting Information Systems
• Statistical Methods in Business
• Operations Management
• Business Law
• Financial Management
• Intro to Management
• Management Skills
• Intro to Marketing

By the time you complete your four-year degree in accounting or a related field, you will have gained a solid understanding of accounting theories and their application. You will be well-prepared to enter the job market as an accountant or to pursue further education and specializations.

Gain experience in the field

To gain experience in the field of accounting in New Brunswick, you can pursue various opportunities offered by major employers in the region. These include the Big Four international accounting firms Deloitte, PricewaterhouseCoopers, KPMG, and Ernst & Young, all of which have a presence in Saint John. Additionally, other prominent accounting firms such as Grant Thornton LLP in Moncton also operate in the province.

The New Brunswick provincial government is another significant employer of accountants, with opportunities available in various agencies. These include the Department of Health in Fredericton and the Department of Justice and Consumer Affairs in Moncton.

If you're interested in a specific industry, you can explore sectors such as agriculture, forestry, fishing, and mining, where cost and capital accountants, financial controllers, management accountants, and internal auditors are in demand. Additionally, the information and communications technology sector is a major contributor to the province's economy, with over 650 companies operating in this field.

Food processing is another key industry in New Brunswick, with companies like Canada Bread Atlantic Ltd., McCain Foods Canada, and Maple Leaf Foods, Inc. offering employment opportunities for accountants.

To enhance your experience, consider joining professional associations such as the New Brunswick Institute of Chartered Accountants, the Society of Management Accountants in the Maritime Provinces, or the Certified General Accountants Association of New Brunswick. These organizations can provide valuable networking and development opportunities.

Furthermore, gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions can be a great way to build your skills and knowledge in the field. Look for opportunities that align with your interests and long-term career goals, whether it's working with small businesses, corporations, or government entities.

Pass the Uniform CPA Exam

To become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in New Brunswick, you must pass the Uniform CPA Exam. Here is some information on how to pass the exam and what to expect:

Education Requirements

Before taking the Uniform CPA Exam, you must ensure you meet the necessary educational requirements. In New Brunswick, aspiring accountants typically obtain a four-year degree in accounting or a related field. A Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Accounting is a common option, with specializations in areas like public accounting, tax accounting, cost accounting, and government accounting. Obtaining a master's degree in accounting or a related field can also enhance your knowledge and qualifications.

CPA Exam Structure

The CPA Exam is designed to test your knowledge and skills in various areas of accounting. It consists of multiple sections, including the Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR) section, which covers financial accounting and reporting topics. The exam is structured to assess your understanding of accounting principles, analytical abilities, and practical application of accounting concepts.

Preparation Strategies

Passing the Uniform CPA Exam requires dedication and a well-structured study plan. Here are some strategies to enhance your preparation:

• Start Early: Give yourself ample time to prepare for the exam. Develop a study schedule that allows you to cover all the relevant topics comprehensively.
• Utilize Review Courses: Enrol in review courses specifically designed to prepare you for the CPA Exam. These courses offer structured guidance, instructor support, and in-class discussions that can enhance your understanding of the material.
• Practice with Sample Questions: Familiarize yourself with the exam format and question types by practising with sample questions and mock exams. This will help you become comfortable with the exam structure and improve your time management during the actual exam.
• Seek Mentorship: Consider finding a mentor who is a licensed CPA or an experienced accounting professional. They can provide valuable insights, guidance, and advice based on their first-hand experience with the exam and the profession.
• Join Study Groups: Collaborating with peers who are also preparing for the CPA Exam can be beneficial. Study groups provide opportunities for discussions, knowledge sharing, and mutual support throughout your exam preparation journey.
• Maintain a Balanced Routine: While studying is important, it's crucial to maintain a healthy balance. Take care of your well-being by getting enough rest, staying physically active, and engaging in relaxing activities to manage stress effectively.

Exam Registration and Logistics

When you're ready to take the exam, you'll need to register with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) and create an account on their CPA Exam site. Requirements for the exam and licensure vary by state, so be sure to consult the relevant state boards of accountancy for specific information. For example, if you plan to become licensed in New Jersey, refer to the New Jersey State Board of Accountancy website.

Passing the Uniform CPA Exam is a significant step towards becoming a Certified Public Accountant in New Brunswick. With dedication, effective preparation, and a solid understanding of accounting principles, you can successfully complete the exam and embark on a rewarding career in the field of accounting.

Complete an orientation course

To become an accountant in New Brunswick, you'll need to complete a degree, usually a bachelor's, and often choose to obtain a certification to help you advance your career, such as becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

Rutgers Business School offers a comprehensive Road to CPA program, which provides guidance and support to students on their path to CPA licensure and a meaningful accounting career. The program includes a CPA-Level Financial Accounting and Reporting Course, academic advising, assistance navigating requirements for the CPA exam and licensure, and career information and guidance.

The CPA-Level Financial Accounting and Reporting Course is a 3-credit course designed to help students prepare for the FAR section of the CPA exam. It is open to students who have completed Intermediate Accounting II and includes exposure to new material, integration of familiar material, and a discussion of the skills and techniques necessary for passing the exam.

The Road to CPA Mentoring Program is another valuable resource offered by Rutgers Business School. This program matches undergraduate accounting students or students considering accounting as a major with professionals in various accounting industries. The program is a great opportunity for students to gain industry insights, build their professional network, and make informed decisions about their career paths.

In addition to the Road to CPA program, students can also benefit from the academic advising services offered by Rutgers Business School. Advisors are available to assist students in planning their class schedules and making decisions about the best ways to meet the 150-credit-hour requirement for the CPA licensure.

Completing an orientation course, such as the ones offered by Rutgers Business School, is a crucial step towards becoming a Certified Public Accountant in New Brunswick. These courses provide the necessary knowledge, resources, and industry connections to help students succeed in their careers and obtain their CPA licensure.

Apply for a license

To apply for a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license in New Brunswick, you must meet the requirements of the specific state board of accountancy. These requirements vary by state, so it is important to check the relevant board's website for detailed information.

In general, to become a licensed CPA, you will need to complete a four-year degree and meet specific credit-hour requirements. Some states require 150 credit-hours, which can be obtained through a combination of undergraduate and graduate studies. You may also need to pass the CPA Exam, which is administered by the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA).

If you are considering a CPA license in New Jersey, you can refer to the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJCPA) website and the New Jersey State Board of Accountancy website. For a CPA license in New York, you can refer to the New York State Society of CPAs website and the New York State Board of Accountancy website. If you are interested in a CPA license in Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) website and the Pennsylvania State Board of Accountancy website will provide the necessary information.

It is worth noting that a CPA license is not required to succeed in the accounting profession. However, it is a well-respected credential that can enhance your career prospects and increase your financial rewards.

Frequently asked questions