How to Get 150 Credit Hours to Become a CPA: 6 Options (Pros and Cons)

Are you aiming to become a CPA but don’t yet meet the CPA 150-hour rule? This article breaks down six practical options to help you meet the 150 credit hours requirement efficiently. Whether you're looking for affordable, fast, or advanced education solutions, this guide will walk you through the pros and cons of each path.

What is the CPA 150-Hour Rule?

The CPA 150-hour rule is a requirement set by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) that mandates aspiring CPAs to complete 150 credit hours of education before becoming certified. While a bachelor’s degree typically offers 120 credit hours, you'll need additional coursework to meet the 150-hour CPA requirement. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t necessarily need a master’s degree—there are quicker and more cost-effective ways to get those extra credits.

Here are six options to meet the 150-hour rule for CPA eligibility and the pros and cons of each.

****My recommendations assume you already have an undergraduate accounting degree and have met your accounting course requirements.

Option 1: Master’s in Accountancy

A Master’s in Accountancy is one of the most common routes to fulfill the CPA 150-hour rule. This advanced degree dives deep into accounting concepts, but it’s not always the most efficient way to meet the credit-hour requirement.

Pros:

• In-Depth Knowledge: Offers a solid foundation in accounting theory, useful for those interested in academia or higher-level accounting positions.
• CPA Exam Prep Alignment: Some programs are structured to cover material that overlaps with the CPA exam content.
• Networking: You can build valuable connections that may lead to job opportunities.

Cons:

• Costly: Master’s programs can be expensive, with a high tuition cost and years to recoup the investment.
• Not Always CPA-Focused: Some programs focus on accounting theory rather than CPA exam preparation.

Verdict:

If you’re passionate about deep accounting theory or interested in teaching, a Master’s in Accountancy is a good choice. However, if you’re looking for a faster or cheaper way to meet the 150 credit hour CPA requirement, other options may be better.

Option 2: Master’s in Taxation

A Master’s in Taxation offers a more specialized approach, focusing on tax laws and regulations while helping you meet the CPA 150 credit hours requirement.

Pros:

• Specialized Knowledge: Great for those interested in tax planning, corporate tax, or forensic accounting.
• High Demand: Tax professionals are always needed, especially during tax season, which can lead to better job security.
• CPA Exam Alignment for REG Section: The coursework can be particularly helpful for the Regulation (REG) and Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP) section of the CPA exam.

Cons:

• Not CPA-Focused: Like the Master’s in Accountancy, it may not cover all CPA exam topics.
• Expensive: Similar to other graduate programs, it comes with a significant cost.

Verdict:

If you’re planning to specialize in tax, a Master’s in Taxation offers great long-term benefits. However, if your main goal is to fulfill the 150-hour CPA rule, this might not be the fastest or most cost-effective option.

Option 3: Minor in Another Field

Pursuing a minor in another field while completing your undergraduate degree can help you reach the 150 CPA credit hours. However, not all minors add value to your CPA career.

Pros:

• Tech-Oriented Minors: Pursuing a minor in, Digital marketing, Information Systems, Data Science, or Cybersecurity can make you more marketable in the modern accounting landscape.
• Career Flexibility: You’ll gain skills that could lead to leadership roles or specialized positions in accounting technology.

Cons:

• Overlapping Subjects: Minors like Finance or Economics may cover topics you’ve already learned in your introduction finance and econ courses or CPA exam prep, adding little new value.

Verdict:

Opt for a tech-oriented minor to enhance your career opportunities while meeting the 150-hour rule. A minor in Data Science, Cybersecurity, or Information Systems can set you apart in the job market.

Option 4: MBA (Master of Business Administration)

An MBA can be a prestigious degree, but is it worth it for meeting the CPA 150-hour rule?

Pros:

• Broad Business Knowledge: An MBA covers a wide range of business skills, which can be beneficial for those aiming for management positions.
• Leadership Preparation: It provides excellent preparation for leadership roles in accounting, finance, or general business.

Cons:

• Expensive: MBAs tend to be costly and take time to complete.
• Not CPA-Focused: The curriculum does not cover CPA-specific topics, making it less useful for exam prep.

Verdict:

If you're aiming for future leadership or management roles, an MBA might be worth the investment. However, if your goal is CPA certification, an MBA is not the most direct path to meeting the CPA 150-hour requirement. Get your MBA later on!

Option 5: Community College Classes

For a low-cost and flexible way to reach the 150-hour CPA requirement, taking additional classes at a community college is an ideal option.

Pros:

• Affordable: Community colleges offer a cost-effective way to accumulate credits without a huge financial burden.
• Flexible: You can choose a variety of classes, from tech courses to general electives, to fit your interests or career goals.

Cons:

• No Additional Credentials: While this route helps you reach the CPA 150 credit hours, you won’t earn any additional degrees or certifications.

Verdict:

If you’re looking for the most affordable and straightforward way to meet the 150-hour rule for CPA eligibility, community college classes are a perfect choice.

Option 6: Community College Certificate Programs

Community college certificate programs allow you to earn credits while acquiring specialized skills that can boost your CPA career.

Examples of Certificate Programs:

• Cybersecurity
• Data Science
• Database Management

Pros:

• Cost-Effective: Like community college classes, certificate programs are affordable.
• Practical Skills: Gain in-demand skills in fields like cybersecurity, which can enhance your career prospects.

Cons:

• Perception: Some employers may undervalue a community college education compared to a university degree, though this stigma is rapidly changing.

Verdict:

If you want to meet the CPA 150-hour rule while gaining specialized skills in a tech-driven world, a community college certificate program is a smart and affordable choice.

Final Thoughts: Best Ways to Meet the CPA 150-Hour Rule

Meeting the CPA 150-hour rule doesn’t have to be a daunting or expensive process. Your choice depends on your long-term career goals. If you’re interested in academia or a specialized field like taxation, a master’s degree might make sense. However, if your primary goal is to reach the 150 credit hours as quickly and affordably as possible, community college courses or certificate programs offer a much more efficient route.

Make sure to evaluate your goals, budget, and timeline to choose the best option for meeting the 150-hour CPA requirement and starting your career as a CPA.