Title: Internal auditor: career path and qualifications
Headings: Internal auditor: career path and qualifications
Internal auditor: career path and qualifications
Internal Auditing Career Path
Educational Qualifications
Other Qualifications

Content: Top performers in large internal audit departments can move into managerial roles directing the activities of the department, supervising department performance and communicating audit results to the relevant authorities in the organization. Educational Qualifications
An entry-level internal auditor position generally requires at least a bachelor's degree, preferably in a business discipline such as accounting, finance, management, public administration or computer information systems. Some companies may seek out entry-level job candidates with degrees in engineering or other technical subjects related to the company's operations. Senior positions in the field typically require bachelor's degrees and substantial professional experience in internal auditing. While a graduate degree is not usually required for advancement in the field, a Master's in Business Administration (MBA) or another relevant subject can provide an important advantage in the job market, especially for leadership positions in internal audit departments. Other Qualifications
There are many professional certifications relevant to internal auditors. Some positions in the field require job candidates to hold one or more certifications, while other jobs list certifications as preferences rather than requirements. The two most important certifications in the field are the Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) designation and the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation. The CIA designation, which is awarded by the Institute of Internal Auditors, is the preeminent professional certification in the field. It is generally considered a qualification for advancement to more senior internal auditor positions.