Accounting Career Paper
There are many jobs that require accounting. Yet, accounting has never been thought of as interesting. Accounting is instead thought of as being tedious and even boring. However, what people may not know is that FBI agents must develop a readiness for accounting to be able to fundamentally do their jobs properly.
In addition to accounting, there are many requirements, tests, and processes you must go through to become an FBI agent, which makes it a difficult but worthwhile job nonetheless. FBI agents provide protection to society and also investigate into many different cases, many cases require forensic accountants to analyze and report their findings on specific things such as bank accounts and other information.
In order to become an FBI agent, there are many requirements that must be fulfilled. To start, one must have a 4 year degree from a college or university “accredited by one of the regional or national institutional associations recognized by the United States Secretary of Education” (FBI) and be a United States citizen.
There is also an age requirement to become an agent. One must be at least 23 years old, but younger than the age of 37. This is due to the physical strains of the profession. The strains of the tasks given to FBI agents make it harder as one continues to age to work in the field. FBI agents are typically paid around 60,000 annually. If agents are relocated to a high cost area they are given a one time extra bonus of 22,000 dollars.
In addition to the requirements, there are many tests that you must pass in order to become an FBI agent. There are many steps that need to be fulfilled in order to apply to become an FBI agent. First you must apply online or at a designated FBI branch office. Once you are accepted, you must take a couple of tests during the application process before you can become an FBI agent. The tests are comprised of two phases. The first phase test evaluates and determines if you have the critical skills and abilities that are required to perform and handle tasks of an FBI agent.
The second phase test requires you to be interviewed by a panel of three special agents to determine if you have the necessary skills in order to handle certain situations and be able to communicate as well. There are many other factors that must be looked into when special agents look at applicants, such as the honesty and integrity of the applicant. There is also a writing portion that evaluates your writing skills and ability to judge and record certain situations in detail. The next test that you must take is the physical portion of the test.
You must adhere to the given instructions and also complete a number of physical exercises. In addition to the tests you are required to have a extensive background check done and medical examinations. Before being accepted as an FBI agent you are to “begin your career at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia for approximately 21 weeks of intensive training at one of the world’s finest law enforcement training facilities. During their time at the FBI Academy, trainees live on-campus and participate in a broad range of training activities.” (FBI.gov)
With all the tests and requirements in place, It may not seem as if FBI agents require accounting in the field. But one of the five areas you must qualify for in order to be accepted into a special agent position is accounting. A type of accounting that is most commonly used in an investigation is forensic accounting. Also read My Dream Job Accountant Essay
Forensic accounting “is a branch of accounting that not only requires knowledge of accounting and auditing principles but also the ability to work on investigation and litigation teams to look into illegal financial activity and assist in litigation processes.” (Gina L.). Forensic accounting is increasing in demand currently due to the recent increase of crime. This can be seen in the job postings for forensic accounting
To become a Forensic Accountant you must have a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related subject. Most graduates who earn a graduate certificate or master’s degree in forensic accounting can drastically increase their employment and salary outcome. Forensic accountants are also usually required to have their Certified Public Accountant (CPA). They can also become Certified Fraud Examiners or Certified Forensic Accountants after two years of experience.
