<p>What if one does not plan on working in the USA after graduation? </p>
<p>Let's say I get my CPA, and want to move to Canada or Australia...</p>
<p>Would that be a dumb move on my part since I only know accounting that are for the states? The laws, etc. </p>
<p>Or do you think it should not be that big of a deal because the foundation for accounting abroad is similar? </p>
<p>I figured if I pursue Finance instead, I have a better chance of being able cope with the business abroad..</p>
<p>The main reason I want to do accounting is because I want to start my own business one day, and I believe it's a good field for a prospective entrepreneur. I would just hate the idea of being stuck in one country because of my degree in accounting, or am I totally wrong?</p>
<p>EDIT: I love economics, I plan on majoring in that as well. But I am just debating if I should do accounting/econ or finance/econ</p>
<p>I don't think there is a text book discription of the skills an entrepreneur requires. </p>
<p>I know couple of accountants who have become successful business leaders and owners. Still, in my opinion, I think the type of person that would make a successful accountant is more likely to not make a good entrepreneur. My line thought on this is that they will probably be more risk adverse and too quantitative to handle the stress and day in day out activities of a business owner.</p>
<p>With that said, I think a fundamental understanding of accounting is required for business ownershil, but I know that if I were to start a business I would hire an accountant.</p>
<p>If you want to live elsewhere, I would not bother getting a CPA, it would be a waste of time imo. The tax code in the states is cumbersome, and unlike most other places. Not to mention the financial reporting regulations etc. (GAAP) has many differences when compared to international standards. If you're set on living abroad, I'd skip the CPA</p>
<p>IFRS is different from GAAP, even though they are trying to converge the two, it will take time. So it's probably not a good idea to become a CPA and then move. Unless, you want to get the certification, move to another country and work in a company where its primary activities are located in the U.S. If that's the case, the CPA might have some use.</p>