Do I need the CPA designation to land a finance job?

For most accounting positions, obviously attaining a CPA is seen as a big plus to potential employers. Much like the CFA, the CPA designation will not land you a job, but it could make you more competitive.

If you do earn the CPA, employers can be confident that your knowledge of accounting will be sound. The value of attaining a CPA outside of accounting, however, is often called into question for other careers in finance.

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