What is the only crime that could be pinned on the infamous Chicago

gangster Al Capone? Tax evasion. My collegiate goal is to become a

forensic accountant like Frank Wilson, the man who gathered enough
evidence to indict the notorious Capone in 1931. There are several steps
to be taken to achieve the goal of becoming a forensic accountant: one
must obtain a college degree, pass the C.P.A. exam and become
knowledgeable of criminal activity such as fraud.

A degree is a necessary foundation in this field. One must obtain at least

a bachelor's degree in accounting. Degrees in related fields such as
finance, business or economics are also acceptable. For more complex
positions, a master's degree is required.

Course work in criminal justice can also be a requirement. It is

important to be well aware of various scams, types of fraud and ways
assets may be hidden. Being capable of criminal analysis of "white collar"
crime is fundamental. Generating various reports in a well-written style
for legal teams is also of high importance. That is where composition
classes become a crucial part of success in this field, as well as relating
key information in the most descriptive and exact way possible.

Finally, the Certified Public Accountant examination must be taken. A

passing grade on this exam ensures someone has learned the principles
of auditing, regulations, reporting, ethics and financial
accounting. Licensing varies state to state, as there is not a national
exam.

If I am able to complete all of these steps, I feel I will be able to make a

big impact on the community. Where other forensic evidence is not
enough, forensic accounting can be extremely effective in taking down
criminals. It can also make those guilty of corporate crime become
accountable.

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