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CPA Pipeline Research
The accounting profession is facing a shortage. From staffing shortages to pipeline challenges, we see articles almost daily mentioning concern. We hear the cause is everything from the declining enrollments in accounting programs, to a lack of exam-takers and the credential losing its luster.
But what is the real reason? Without the data, it's just conjecture.
That's why the Center for Accounting Transformation is pleased to partner with the Illinois CPA Society on re-issuing its 2020 CPA pipeline survey in an effort to gain fresh insight into the factors impacting the decision to become a CPA or to not become a CPA and we would welcome your participation.
The goal of this research is to expand the reach beyond Illinois and compare the 2023 responses against previous findings, which were published in the Society’s Insight Special Feature A CPA Pipeline Report: Decoding the Decline. The new findings will be published to bring awareness and renewed focus on the most relevant and effective strategies to ensure a strong CPA pipeline.
The nationwide decline in the accounting pipeline has been percolating for years. Now, the credential seems to have lost its luster. But why?
Many young people simply are not interested in or aware of the vast array of opportunities that a career in accounting has to offer. In the past, earning the CPA credential was a badge of honor, a symbol that identified the holder as someone who exhibited a high level of competence in the profession.
Is it a recruitment issue? Is it a financial issue? Is it stereotype issue?
That's what the CPA Pipeline Research study is all about. With input from various regional and national stakeholders, the Illinois Society of CPAs has developed a survey targeted toward accounting students, graduates, and professionals under the age of 35—including CPAs and non-CPAs—with the aim of gaining insight into what is truly underlying the decline in individuals pursuing the CPA credential and understanding why so many accounting students and young professionals either do not finish the CPA exam or never take it at all.
Together, we can #EnableTransformation, find ways to improve pipeline issues, and #ImproveTheWorld.
We hope you’ll participate!
There is no cost to participate, just a simple request to become a Research Ally and distribute the survey to your network inviting them to participate in the study. Simply click the link below to join us in this important research study and help the profession decode the decline by revealing the real reasons accounting students, graduates, and young professionals are not pursuing the CPA credential like they used to.
The target audience includes students majoring in accounting and accounting professionals under 35 (non-CPAs and CPAs).
The survey will be open ~Oct. 1 – Dec. 15, 2023, and can be promoted any time during that period.
We would be honored to work with you on this important initiative!
This national survey was made possible through a collaborative effort involving numerous organizations from across the country, united in their commitment to advancing our shared goals. We would like to gratefully acknowledge our additional research allies:
