Ohio is shaping the next generation of leaders in accounting, finance and business. As digital finance evolves, small business ecosystems expand and financial literacy gains momentum, the need for skilled professionals who can navigate, innovate and lead has never been greater.
At The Ohio Society of CPAs (OSCPA), we believe in the power of education, mentorship and opportunity. By partnering with educators, parents, industry experts and community leaders, we equip students with the knowledge and skills to thrive as CPAs. Whether they pursue traditional career paths, explore emerging industries or forge their own entrepreneurial ventures, OSCPA empowers them to lead with confidence, drive meaningful change and shape the future of the profession.
Charting a Path to Success:
Building a Strong Foundation
Preparing for the future requires practical skills and a clear vision. Understanding personal finance, exploring diverse career pathways and mastering business principles empowers students to thrive in a dynamic world.
By engaging with accounting and entrepreneurship courses, students build a strong foundation that positions them to take charge of their future. CPAs aren’t just behind-the-scenes professionals—they are leaders who shape business decisions and drive industry transformation.
OSCPA Digital Badges
Recognize students’ progress in critical financial and business skills.
Learning Activities & Full Curriculum
Integrate accounting concepts into the classroom with engaging lessons.
Industry-Recognized Credentials
Equip students with certifications that distinguish them and enhance their career readiness.
Hands-On Experiences
Programs like Accounting Career Days and CPA Camp immerse students in real-world opportunities.
Unlock a Future of Possibilities
It’s never too early for students to explore high-demand, rewarding careers in accounting, finance and entrepreneurship. Help them take charge of their future by connecting them to opportunities that pave the way to success.
Success Stories from Students Like Yours
Meet students who have participated in OSCPA programs and discovered their passion for accounting:
A Future-Proof Career for Ohio's Youth
Ohio’s accounting, finance and business sectors are set for significant growth by 2030. Now is the time to prepare the next generation of leaders. As financial technologies advance and small business opportunities expand, the need for skilled professionals—like CPAs, financial analysts and auditors—continues to grow. These career paths offer students stability, growth and a chance to shape the future.
Accounting & Auditing
Over 50,000 professionals will be employed by 2030, earning a median salary of $85,000.
Treasurers & Controllers
These leaders in financial planning are expected to see a 16% growth, with median salaries of $131,610.
Financial Examiners
Expected 19% growth by 2030, with a median salary of $66,620.
Entrepreneurship
With over 148,000 small business applications in Ohio in 2023 alone, the potential for entrepreneurs with strong accounting foundations is limitless.
Guide Tomorrow's Leaders Today
Aligned with Ohio’s Career Connections Framework, OSCPA programs empower students to make informed decisions about their future. Through hands-on learning, mentorship and real-world exposure, they’re prepared to step into leadership roles—whether in accounting or as innovative business professionals. Opportunities include:
OSCPA Career Connections Framework
Links career interests to real-world opportunities.
Job Shadowing & Mentorship
Provides students a chance to learn directly from experienced CPAs.
Industry Panels & Career Days
Gives insights from industry leaders who have excelled in the field.
Scholarships and Financial Support
Financial support can make all the difference. OSCPA offers a range of scholarships for students looking to pursue the CPA path. Learn about eligibility, amounts and application deadlines to help your student’s future.
Clear Steps to Becoming a CPA
The journey to becoming a CPA is clear and achievable. Here’s how your student can get there:
Focus on Key High School Courses
Math, English, economics and business classes can set the stage.
Explore OSCPA Programs
Participate in programs like CPA Camp or Accounting Career Days.
Pursue a Relevant College Degree
Many students major in accounting, business or finance.
Prepare for the CPA Exam
OSCPA offers study resources and mentorship to guide this crucial step.
Gain Work Experience
Internships and job shadowing provide valuable experience.
Become a CPA
Pass the exam, meet the experience requirements and start a rewarding career!
Invest in Your Student's Future
With many of Ohio’s current accounting professionals nearing retirement, there is an urgent need for new talent in accounting, finance and entrepreneurship. A CPA designation offers more than a secure career—it positions students as future leaders, driving innovation and growth.
Real-World Learning Opportunities with OSCPA
CPA Camp
A free, immersive experience where students can explore the world of accounting, learn directly from CPAs and even earn scholarships.
Accounting Career Days
Spend a day on a college campus, meet real CPAs and see how accounting can lead to exciting opportunities across various industries.
Lead with ACLA
Join the Accounting Careers Leadership Academy (ACLA), a virtual, all-expense-paid program connecting you with industry leaders, building your leadership skills and preparing you for a bright future.
Scholarships—Invest in Your Future
The Ohio CPA Foundation’s Scholarship Program can help cover tuition so students can stay focused on what really matters—their future.
Empower Your Student's Potential with OSCPA
Parents, educators and guidance counselors play a vital role in shaping students’ futures. By encouraging them to join the OSCPA, they will gain FREE access to resources, mentorship and support designed to explore the CPA field. Together, we can help Ohio’s next generation look beyond the present and embrace their potential.
FAQs
Got questions about becoming a CPA? We’ve got the answers. Check out our most frequently asked questions and get all the info you need to kickstart your CPA journey.
Additional Resources
