Learning Pathways

LEARNING PATHWAY: Entry-Level Accountant / CPA Candidate


Typical Experience:

0–2 years



Focus:

Right now, your main goal is to get real accounting experience while you gear up for the CPA exams—and pass them.

Core Skills to Build

  • Solid grasp of GAAP and how financial reporting works
  • Basics of audit, tax, and day-to-day accounting tasks
  • Knowing how internal controls fit into everything
  • Careful attention to the details—accuracy matters
  • Good time management and staying organized
  • Clear, professional communication
  • High ethical standards and a sense of responsibility
  • Getting comfortable with Excel and accounting software

How to Grow

  • Make a CPA study plan and stick to it
  • Register for and pass each section of the CPA exam
  • Try out different areas—do some audit, some tax, maybe even a bit of industry accounting
  • Ask for feedback on your technical work
  • Sharpen your Excel and data analysis skills
  • Join in on training sessions at your firm or company
  • Build connections with mentors and CPA supervisors

The goal? Finish the CPA exams and move closer to full licensure.



Key Responsibilities:

    What You'll Be Doing

    • Help out with account reconciliations
    • Pitch in with the month-end close
    • Prepare journal entries and the schedules that go with them
    • Assist with audit and tax documentation
    • Keep financial records organized and up to date
    • Answer questions from supervisors or auditors when they come up

Recommended NJCPA Courses:


Transitioning to the Accounting Profession

New accountants, whether coming right out of school or from industry will find that the accounting profession is heavily governed by technical and ethical standards. In addition, the new accounting professional will need to understand new terminology as well as what their team members and clients expect of them by way of job performance and client service. This module will help those transitioning to the accounting profession to understand the role of the accountant in public accounting and in industry, discuss the major standards relating to ethics including integrity, objectivity, independence and serving the public trust. (Please Note: This module is part of Surgent's Audit Skills Training: Level 1.)

Offered on: On Demand - Video


Myths and Opportunities: An Introduction to the Business & Careers of Accounting

This free one-hour course reviews the overall landscape of the accounting profession for those considering or starting their career in accounting. It provides insights into how the accounting profession offers diverse opportunities beyond audit or tax work and that a career in accounting can offer great flexibility. In addition, this course will give you points to consider when choosing your career.

Offered on: On Demand - Video


NJCPA/Surgent Mock CPA Exam

This is a four-hour mock CPA Exam session designed to boost your CPA Exam-readiness. Through a simulated CPA Exam, you can receive a similar experience to your exam day from the comfort of your home – at no cost.

Offered on: Apr. 16, 2026 (Live Webcast) | Sep. 16, 2026 (Live Webcast) | Nov. 5, 2026 (Live Webcast) | Jan. 21, 2027 (Live Webcast)


Complete Guide to Analyze Data with Excel PivotTables

Unlock the full potential of Microsoft Excel PivotTables with this comprehensive course. This training is designed to equip participants with the skills to effectively analyze and summarize data, transforming raw numbers into actionable insights.

Offered on: Mar. 25, 2026 (Live Webcast) | Apr. 23, 2026 (Live Webcast) | Apr. 24, 2026 (Live Webcast)