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,
Washington Public Accountancy Act, and the Board Rules found in the
Washington Administrative Code. These sources govern the practice and
responsibilities of Washington CPAs. It concludes with a section on how a
CPA can put his or her ethics into action.
COURSE OBJECTIVES:
1. To educate licensees in ethics of professional accounting as CPAs.
2. To convey the intent of the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct, the Washington
Administrative Code and Washington Public Accountancy Act in the performance of
professional accounting services/work, not to adhere to the mere technical compliance of such
rules.
3. To assist the CPA in applying 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.
4. To review the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct and the Washington Administrative Code
and Washington Public Accountancy Act and to discuss their implications for persons in a
variety of practices, including:
a. CPAs in client practice of public accountancy who perform attest and non-attest
services.
b. CPAs employed in industry who provide internal accounting and auditing services.
c. CPAs employed in education or in government accounting or auditing.
5. This course discusses the Washington Statutes and Rules that pertain to CPAs licensed to
practice in the state of Washington. Students will become familiar with the Washington
Administrative Code and Washington Public Accountancy Act currently in effect and how the
statutes, rules, and policies pertain to them.