October 14, 2022
- Six Must-Ask Questions Before You Enroll in a CPE Program
- 1. What is the program's focus or area of specialization?
- 2. How flexible is the program's format?
- 3. Who are the instructors teaching the program, and what are their qualifications?
- 4. Are there any special discounts or financial assistance available for the program?
- 5. How can I verify my progress and success?
- 6. How confident are you that this CPE program will benefit your career?
- Conclusion
Whether you’re a new accountant just starting in your career or an experienced professional looking to stay on top of industry trends, continuing professional education (CPE) is essential. But, choosing the right CPE program can be daunting.
To help you navigate the world of CPE programs, we’ve created a checklist of questions to ask before enrolling. Keep these in mind when evaluating any program, and you’ll be sure to choose one that’s right for you.
1. What is the program’s focus or area of specialization?
Do you need CPE credits in accounting, HR, healthcare management, or another industry-related field? By choosing a program with the proper focus, you’ll know ahead of time whether it will align with your career goals and professional development needs.
2. How flexible is the program’s format?
Does it consist of one-off lectures, or are there opportunities to participate in group discussions with your peers? Does it involve any hands-on activities or case studies that will help you apply what you’re learning in real-life situations?
Will you be able to complete it on your schedule, whether that means studying during evenings or weekends or attending classes in person or online? Some programs may offer online courses, while others might be in a more traditional classroom setting.
3. Who are the instructors teaching the program, and what are their qualifications?
By choosing a program taught by qualified instructors with a wealth of professional knowledge, you can be confident that your learning outcomes will be as impactful and meaningful as possible.
Do the instructors have relevant experience and expertise in their field? Are they active practitioners who can share real-life examples of how principles apply to accounting?
4. Are there any special discounts or financial assistance available for the program?
If cost concerns you, it’s also important to consider whether there may be any special discounts or financial aid options available through the program. For example, some programs may offer discounts if you’re a member of specific organizations or groups.
Or your employer may be able to provide you with a scholarship or other financial assistance. Doing so will help you find a program that fits your learning needs and budget.
5. How can I verify my progress and success?
At the end of any CPE program, you’ll likely want to know how you’ve performed and whether you’ve achieved the learning outcomes you intended.
Some programs may provide a certificate or transcript after each course that indicates your progress. In contrast, others may have more formal evaluation processes, such as an assessment or certification exam.
6. How confident are you that this CPE program will benefit your career?
Even if the program seems like a good fit on paper, it’s essential to do your research and verify that the program is actually worth your time and investment.
Doing so can help you understand how valuable the content will be so that you can feel confident about making the right decision about whether to enroll in a CPE program.
By taking the time to ask these key questions before enrolling in a CPE program, you’ll be able to get the most out of your learning experience. Good luck!
