Determinant Factors for the Dearth of Minority CPAs

• In Event: Public Interest/ Diversity

Abstract

Although the CPA credential provides social and economic opportunities for its holders, only a small proportion of minority accountants hold the certificate. Beginning with the 1969 AICPA Minority Initiatives Committee, several measures have been taken to increase the number of minority CPAs. However, according to an AICPA study, African Americans constitute only 3% of the total CPA population. Therefore, this study, based on a survey of minority accountants, examines the factors that contribute to the dearth of minority CPAs. The results suggest that job-related motivation, affordability of exam costs, and a lack of accounting role models have significant association with not being a CPA. Also, accountants with a negative perception of the exam are less likely to succeed in acquiring the certificate. Gender differences also play a role in that minority female accountants are much less apt to be CPAs than minority males. The results of these findings provide insight for state regulators, employers, and others who wish to move toward greater diversity among CPAs.

Authors

• Helen G Gabre, Alabama A&M University

• Dale L Flesher, The University of Mississippi

• Frank Ross, Howard University