Someone who wants to become a fraud auditor will typically need a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field, and a professional certification. One option is to pursue a license as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or in a similar role. Another is to take an examination to become a fraud professional. In both cases, to retain the qualification, people need to meet continuing education requirements, which include training in legislative changes as well as professional ethics. Once people are fully qualified, job opportunities in the fraud auditing field can be pursued.
College students with an interest in fraud auditing may want to consider taking as many electives as possible in financial subjects while they work toward a degree in accounting. This can help a student prepare to become a fraud auditor. Mentors may be able to help students find placements like internships in accounting firms where they will have an opportunity to work with fraud auditors and practice accounting skills. These can also be useful after graduation, when students want as many references as possible to use when applying for job openings.
After college, there are several ways to become a fraud auditor. The best choice can depend on a student’s preference and the market conditions. It may be advisable to look over job listings to see what kinds of certifications employers seem to prefer, as these can help new graduates decide which certification they should pursue. If most jobs seem to expect a CPA qualification, for example, this may be the best choice.
Accounting certifications are administered by professional organizations or government agencies, depending on the region. People usually need to provide proof of education and pass an examination to earn the qualification. Continuing education requirements usually include a set number of hours per year to keep up with events in the accounting field. After someone is fully qualified, it is possible to apply to become a fraud auditor for a company with an open position in its fraud department.
Another option to consider is a fraud examiner certification. Professional organizations typically administer this certification, which may include an examination, proof of education, and letters of reference. A person who meets the requirements is qualified to become a fraud auditor and must submit proof of continuing education to maintain the certification. Some workplaces may prefer these qualifications because of their specific focus on fraud and the ethics surrounding fraud examinations.
