A CPA is challenged in today’s work world to not
only serve his/her client or employer but also to protect the public interest
by ensuring that there is transparency in financial reporting or there is fair
administration of the tax laws. In
balancing the two interests, a CPA may find him or herself in an ethical dilemma.
This course covers not only basic ethical frameworks, but also specific rules from
the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct, and the Utah State Code, Administrative
Rules and Code of Professional Conduct. These sources govern the practice and
responsibilities of Utah CPAs. It concludes with
a section on how a CPA can put his or her ethics into action
- To apply
the ethics of professional accounting as CPAs through the analysis of case
studies involving both actual situations and hypothetical facts.
- To apply
ethical judgment in interpreting the rules and determining public
interest. Public interest should be placed ahead of self-interest, even if
it means a loss of job or client.
- To analyze and apply the AICPA
Code of Professional Conduct
and Utah law that pertain to CPAs licensed to practice in the state of Utah.
Students will become familiar with the Utah State Code, Administrative
Rules and Code of Professional Conduct, and the Policies adopted by the
Board currently in effect and how the statutes, rules, and policies
pertain to them.
- To determine
the course of action that would uphold the intent of the rules in the
performance of professional accounting services/work, not just to adhere
to the mere technical compliance of such rules.
- To
review and discuss the rules and their implications for persons in a
variety of practices, including:
a. CPAs who provide
assurance, attest or compilation services.
b. CPAs who
provide tax services.