How to Learn Forensic Accounting
Forensic accounting is an exciting field that contradicts the stereotype of dull financial work. This field involves assisting in investigations of white-collar money crimes and provides a very important resource for such criminal investigations. For accountants or would-be accountants who think this might be a good fit, here's some basic info about learning to become a forensic accountant.
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Instructions
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Obtain basic accounting credentials, if you don't already have them. Forensic accountants must have a Bachelor's degree in accounting and are usually expected to also have a CPA certification. There is no further degree requirement specific to forensic accounting.
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Consider self-education on the forensics-related material. There are a number of books available on the subject, including textbooks. However, forensic accounting is a complicated field, one that you will not be able to prepare yourself for with light or even heavy reading on your own time. Instead, use books to give yourself a beginning overview in order to decide if this field is right for you and where you wish to take your education next.
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Consider training to become a Certified Fraud Investigator (CFI) and a Certified Forensic Accountant (CFA). Although a CPA certification is all that's technically required, many forensic accountants do not feel that this alone equips them with adequate knowledge for law enforcement. In addition, this training will make you more competitive when seeking employment. Even the completion of some relevant coursework will be valuable, whether or not you take the examinations to become certified.
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Choose between online and classroom courses in forensic accounting education programs. Online or correspondent courses may be a good option if you are training while working full-time, but learning in person will most likely look better on your resume and will give you the valuable opportunity to interact with people who are involved in this field.
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Seek opportunities to speak to, shadow (where allowable) and/or intern with established forensic accountants in your area. Find these by asking around at local colleges (with related coursework), police stations and CPA firms. Forensic accounting is a field where there is no substitute for real-world experience. These professionals may also be able to advise you as far as what certifications or coursework would be the most valuable, or help you to choose a specialty area.
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