Bryan School NewsRelease

UNCG SELECTED TO PRE-TEST NEW COMPUTERIZED CPA EXAM
 

GREENSBORO — As the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam converts from a paper-and-pencil to a computerized version, the Bryan School of Business and Economics at The University of North Carolina at Greensboro has been selected as one of four programs across the country to participate in pre-testing of the new exam.

 The joint American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the National Association of State Board of Accountancy (NASBA) Computerized Implementation Committee (CIC) manages the transition of the CPA Examination from paper to computer. The exam is being revised to ensure that it continues to meet its public protection mandate by reflecting the changes in work performed by entry level CPAs. Officials have concluded that, while a paper and pencil examination is suitable for testing foundational knowledge, it falls short in testing some skills, which are becoming increasingly important to entry-level CPAs. There is a need for testing higher-order skills in the work of CPAs, and the computer-based test is a way to do so.

“The transformation of this exam is a very exciting initiative for the profession and presents an opportunity for the academic community to play an essential role,” said Dr. Edward Arrington, UNCG professor and chair of the accounting department. “UNCG is pleased to take a leading national role in this process and our students will benefit from the experience.”

The four universities selected to participate are UNCG, NC A&T State University, University of Illinois/Urbana-Champaign and the University of Massachusetts. Eventually more universities and public accounting firms across the country that have lab facilities and sites capable of meeting certain security requirements will be invited to participate in a larger-scaled pre-test. The first phase of testing will begin spring 2002.

As a premier university, UNCG is a catalyst for creating new knowledge and is the area’s most powerful intellectual engine. With particular strengths in business, education and the study of social issues, performing arts, as well as science, UNCG offers an unparalleled and multi-disciplined resource for students, business and the public. The Bryan School of Business and Economics has been a leader in national innovation, and its work with development of the new CPA exam illustrates that leadership.

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