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External & internal audit

Auditor

Two hard years at a Big Four firm buys you options for a decade.

Typical pay

$60k-$120k

How you get in

Accounting degree; CPA for advancement

Outlook

Steady; a persistent shortage of accounting graduates

Auditors examine financial records and controls for accuracy and compliance. Public accounting is the standard entry — demanding hours and high turnover by design, and an exit to industry that is genuinely valuable.

A day in the life

  1. 8:00aClient site, review the day's testing plan
  2. 9:00aSample selection and evidence gathering
  3. 12:00pLunch with the engagement team
  4. 1:00pTest controls, document workpapers
  5. 4:00pAsk the client for the fourth time for a schedule
  6. 7:00pClear review notes from the senior — later in busy season

How to get in

Public accounting to CPA

Duration

5-7 years

Cost

$50,000-$180,000 plus exam costs

Credential

CPA license

  1. Complete an accounting degree and the 150 credit hours your state requires
  2. Intern with a public accounting firm — this is the hiring pipeline
  3. Start as an audit associate and survive two to three busy seasons
  4. Pass the CPA exam, then either make manager or exit to industry

Internal audit

Duration

4-6 years

Cost

$40,000-$150,000

Credential

CIA (Certified Internal Auditor)

  1. Complete a business or accounting degree
  2. Enter a corporate internal audit department directly
  3. Get the CIA certification, which is faster than the CPA
  4. Far better work-life balance, and a direct view into the whole business

IT and systems audit

Duration

4-6 years

Cost

$40,000-$150,000 plus certification

Credential

CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor)

  1. Combine accounting or IS coursework with technical skills
  2. Enter IT audit at a firm or in a corporate function
  3. Earn the CISA credential
  4. Bridges directly into cybersecurity governance and risk roles

What people love

  • · Strong exit opportunities into industry finance
  • · Structured training and a clear promotion ladder
  • · The CPA is a durable, portable credential
  • · Internal audit offers far better hours

What wears people down

  • · Busy season means 60-80 hour weeks
  • · Repetitive testing and documentation
  • · Clients treat you as an obstacle
  • · Public accounting turnover is high by design

From people doing it

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