Certification
Get Certified
The Forensic CPA Program is a specialized certification designed to equip Accountants with the advanced skills and knowledge needed to excel in forensic accounting and investigative practices.
This program delves into the intricacies of fraud detection, financial investigation, and litigation support, providing professionals with the tools to analyze complex financial data, uncover discrepancies, and provide expert testimony in legal proceedings.
What is a Forensic Accountant?
A forensic accountant is a financial professional specializing in investigating, analyzing, and interpreting complex financial data for legal and regulatory purposes.
They combine accounting expertise with investigative skills to uncover financial fraud, embezzlement, money laundering, or discrepancies in financial records. Forensic accountants often work closely with law enforcement, attorneys, and regulatory bodies, providing crucial evidence and expert testimony in legal disputes, criminal cases, or corporate investigations.
Their role extends beyond detecting fraud to include risk assessment, asset tracing, and financial compliance monitoring. Forensic accountants play a key role in litigation support, bankruptcy cases, insurance claims, and corporate governance, helping organizations maintain transparency and accountability. Their work is highly detail-oriented and requires strong analytical abilities, critical thinking, and knowledge of legal and financial systems.
Benefits
Benefits of becoming a Forensic CPA
Forensic CPAs play a crucial role in uncovering financial misconduct, recovering proceeds of crime, and navigating complex legal proceedings related to fraud and money laundering. By becoming a member, you will gain specialized skills and knowledge, including:
Prerequisites
Membership Eligibility
Accountants
An individual MUST be a licensed CPA (Certified Public Accountant), a CA (Chartered Accountant), or another country’s equivalent to CPA. They must also be a student or associate member of the Society.
Forensic CPA Programs
Preparing for the Forensic CPA Exam
The Forensic CPA Society offers a self-study program for candidates, as well as some individual programs
Forensic CPA Program – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Certification & Examinations
- Certification Process
- Course Format and Structure
- Enrollment and Requirements
- FCPAS Certificate Programs
- Forensic Accounting
- Forensic CPA Program
- Forensic CPA Society
- General Program Information
- Memberships
- Outcomes and Certification
- Pricing & Payment
- Program Fees
- Program Study Options
- Technical and Support
The Forensic CPA Program is a professional certification that equips CPAs and financial professionals with the specialized skills required for forensic accounting. It covers fraud detection, financial investigations, litigation support, and expert testimony.
The Forensic CPA Society is a professional organization dedicated to promoting excellence in the field of forensic accounting. We provide certification, education, and a supportive community for forensic accountants.
The Forensic CPA Society is a professional organization offering specialized certificate programs to equip individuals with advanced forensic accounting skills through flexible, expert-led training.
The program is ideal for Certified Public Accountants (CPAs), auditors, legal professionals, compliance officers, and financial investigators seeking to enhance their expertise in forensic accounting and fraud examination.
Our mission is to develop forensic accountants who can uncover the truth, protect financial systems, and make meaningful contributions to the pursuit of justice. We aim to lead in advancing the field of forensic accounting while upholding the highest ethical standards
These programs are open to accountants, non-accountants, and professionals from various fields who are interested in forensic accounting and financial investigations.
The curriculum includes:
– Forensic accounting analysis techniques
– Financial data analytics
– Legal and regulatory frameworks
– Fraud investigation methodologies
– Ethical considerations
– Litigation support and expert testimony
– Emerging trends in the field
The Forensic CPA Society was founded on July 15, 2005, by Donna Larsen. It was established to promote excellence in forensic accounting and to provide certification for CPAs specializing in this field.
You can pursue any or all of the following:
- Principles of Fraud Examination
- Forensic and Investigative Accounting
- Criminal Interrogations and Confessions
- Financial Investigations and Forensic Accounting
The Forensic CPA program aims to:
– Develop a deep understanding of forensic accounting
– Strengthen analytical and investigative abilities
– Improve communication and reporting skills
– Familiarize candidates with legal and regulatory contexts
– Promote ethical standards and best practices
– Prepare participants for certification and professional advancement
As a member, you will have access to a network of dedicated professionals, expert faculty, and a curriculum designed to prepare you for the demands of forensic accounting. You will also receive Continuing Professional Education and training to help you excel in your career
Blended courses combine self-paced online learning with live virtual classes and interactive components to create a flexible and engaging educational experience.
Graduates will be able to:
– Investigate and analyze financial fraud
– Provide litigation support and expert witness services
– Prepare detailed financial reports for legal use
– Navigate complex regulatory and compliance environments
– Contribute to the integrity of financial reporting
Stay updated by visiting our website and subscribing to our newsletter. We regularly post updates about our activities, events, and developments in the field of forensic accounting. (See our Calendar of Events)
Students access course materials—such as readings, videos, and assignments—on their own schedule, allowing them to learn at their own pace.
The program integrates both theoretical knowledge and practical application. Participants will engage in real-world scenarios to practice forensic accounting, investigative techniques, and courtroom communication.
Forensic accounting involves using accounting skills to investigate financial crimes, trace discrepancies, and provide expert testimony in legal proceedings. Forensic accountants analyze financial records to uncover irregularities and testify in court.
Yes. Scheduled live virtual sessions allow learners to interact with instructors and peers in real time via video conferencing tools.
Yes. The Forensic CPA certification is recognized within the forensic accounting and financial investigation community, enhancing your credibility and career opportunities.
Anyone with a background in accounting or a related field can become a forensic accountant. This typically includes individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a similar discipline.
Continuing education and certifications, such as the Forensic Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation, can further establish expertise in forensic accounting and improve career opportunities in this field.
Most live sessions are recorded and made available for later viewing, so you can catch up at your convenience.
Candidates should have a background in accounting or finance. While a CPA designation is preferred, it is not mandatory to begin the program.
You can become a member by visiting our website and selecting the membership level that best suits your background and career goals. We offer two membership levels to support professionals and students at every stage of their forensic accounting journey
Courses may feature:
- Discussion forums
- Quizzes
- Group projects
- Mentorship opportunities
Certified Forensic CPAs can pursue roles such as:
– Forensic Accountant
– Fraud Examiner
– Litigation Support Specialist
– Financial Investigator
– Compliance Analyst
– Expert Witness Consultant
The Forensic Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification is a credential that indicates expertise in forensic accounting. It is granted to individuals who have met the necessary experience requirements and passed the examination process.
No prior accounting experience is required. The programs are designed to be accessible to professionals from diverse backgrounds.
The certification enhances your analytical, legal, and ethical skillset—making you a valuable asset in both private and public sector investigations. It also prepares you for future leadership roles in forensic accounting.
To obtain the Forensic CPA certification, candidates must complete a comprehensive study program and a tailored examination. After successfully passing the certification exam, participants will receive the Forensic CPA designation.
Yes. You’ll need to complete an online application form and may be asked to provide basic professional or educational background information.
For registration details, program schedule, and enrollment support, please visit our website or contact our admissions team directly.
The credentialing process involves passing four exam papers, each covering different aspects of forensic accounting
- FRD510: Principles of Fraud Examination
- CRM504: Criminal Interrogation and Confession
- FRD506: Financial Investigation and Forensic Accounting
- FRD508: Forensic Investigative Accounting
You must pass all four papers to earn the Forensic CPA certification.
While no formal prerequisites are required, familiarity with basic financial concepts may be helpful, especially for more advanced certificates.
Candidates must:
– Hold a CPA, CA, or equivalent designation, or have a relevant anti-fraud degree/designation (assessed case-by-case)
– Be an Associate-level member of the Forensic CPA Society
– Successfully complete the two-part exam
– Submit an application for Credential Membership upon passing the exam
Students have the option to choose from live sessions, pre-recorded sessions, or self-study methods to prepare for the Forensic CPA examination
Yes. Upon successfully completing the course requirements, by attaining 70% from a 100-question exam you’ll receive a certificate from the Forensic CPA Society.
The two-part exam includes:
– Forensic Accounting
– Asset Misappropriation
– Financial Accounting Application
– Conducting Investigations
– Forensic Analysis
– Computer Forensics
Anyone with a combination of work experience and academic qualifications in accounting or a related field can become an Forensic CPA. This includes individuals who have completed the necessary education and relevant work experience in forensic accounting. Once certified, you can use the Forensic CPA designation to demonstrate your expertise in forensic accounting
These credentials demonstrate specialized expertise in forensic accounting, fraud examination, and financial investigations—valuable in roles across finance, law enforcement, compliance, and legal fields.
Each part includes 120 multiple-choice questions with a 3.5-hour time limit. Candidates must score at least 70% overall and complete both parts within one year.
Students are allowed up to three (3) chances to retake any exam that they have not passed.
You’ll need a reliable internet connection, a computer or tablet, and access to video conferencing tools.
Yes, candidates may retake the exam for a fee of USD $300 per attempt.
To maintain the Forensic CPA credential, holders must:
- Remain an active Forensic CPA Credential Member by paying the annual membership fee.
- Complete a minimum of 20 hours of CPE each year in anti-fraud, legal, forensic accounting, or other approved related fields. At least 10 of these hours must relate directly to the Forensic CPA body of knowledge.
Yes. You’ll have access to instructors, technical support, and peer communities to help you throughout your learning journey.
Candidates must submit an application for Credential Membership with the Forensic CPA Society. Once approved, they receive the official Forensic CPA credential and certificate.
The Forensic CPA Study package is $3,400.00 and includes all course materials, a study guide, and access to live or pre-recorded class sessions.
Payment plan options are available. To learn more, please reach out to our Student Finance Advisor
The retake fee is US$50.00.
Self-Study Program: USD $3,000
Yes, the retake fee is USD $300 per attempt.
Payments can be made online via the Forensic CPA Society website at www.fcpas.org.
Please refer to the Refund & Withdrawal Policy on the website or contact support for more details.
