Choosing the right CPE course can feel like navigating a maze, especially when you’re juggling a busy schedule. Let’s face it—the time you spend worrying about which course to take could be better spent on things that actually move the needle in your career—or even enjoying a well-deserved break.
A recent PICPA survey found that many accounting students question whether the 150-hour credit requirement is worth the time investment, but here’s the thing: it doesn’t have to be a burden.
Here’s where it gets better—
By strategically selecting CPE courses that align with your career goals, you can turn that time investment into a powerful advantage.
Instead of just checking a box, you can choose courses that not only fulfill your requirements but also equip you with skills that make a real difference. So why not make your CPE journey work for you? I’ve been there, and I know how important it is to make the most of your time. Let’s explore how you can maximize your efforts and take your career to the next level.
Best Online CPE Course Breakdown
- Becker – Best Overall: Becker leads the pack with a huge course library, flexible formats (live + on-demand), and top-tier content—perfect for CPAs who want it all.
- Illumeo – Best for Specialization: Looking to go deep? Illumeo offers niche micro-certifications in areas like SOX & revenue recognition—great for advancing in specialized roles.
- Surgent – Best for Innovation Surgent’s adaptive tech + trend-focused content (like AI) help you stay ahead of the curve with smarter, more efficient learning.
- Gleim – Best Value: Gleim delivers serious bang for your buck with low-cost, customizable CPE bundles—perfect for pros who want quality without overspending.
- myCPE – Best for Variety (with Caveats): myCPE offers a wide selection of CPE courses across many fields, making it a convenient one-stop shop. However, the platform’s course quality can be inconsistent, and the interface isn’t always the most user-friendly.
1. Becker CPE Review: Top Subscription for CPAs
Becker CPE Review stands out as one of the best CPE courses for CPAs, offering an extensive library of learning opportunities tailored to fit various professional needs. With over 700 on-demand courses and more than 1,000 live-streaming webinars, Becker ensures that earning CPE credits is both efficient and impactful.
Course Offerings and Subscriptions
Becker’s CPE platform provides three subscription tiers: Prime, Select, and Essentials. These options make it easier for certified public accountants to meet their CPE requirements.
- Prime Subscription: At $799, this comprehensive package offers an extensive course catalog that includes over 50 state board-approved courses and covers critical topics like tax, A&A, and state-specific ethics courses. The Prime subscription also features a personalized compliance tracker, ensuring that you stay on top of your CPE needs.
- Select Subscription: Priced at $499, this package is ideal for CPAs focusing on essential updates and professional development. It provides a solid selection of content, including 50+ hours of new materials and unlimited credit consumption.
- Essentials Subscription: For $329, this option offers a more focused approach with 90 days of access to 475+ on-demand courses and 480+ interactive webcasts. It’s perfect for professionals who need to quickly earn their credits without committing to a year-long subscription.
Pros
- Comprehensive Learning: Becker’s extensive course catalog covers a wide range of topics, from fundamental accounting principles to advanced CPE topics like artificial intelligence and virtual currencies. This breadth of content ensures that financial professionals are equipped with the financial knowledge needed to stay competitive and lead in a rapidly evolving industry.
- Flexibility: Becker offers both self-study courses and live webinars, giving you the freedom to choose the CPE prep learning format that best fits your schedule and learning preferences. This flexibility allows you to balance continuing education with your other professional and personal commitments.
- Engaging Video Format: Many CPAs appreciate Becker’s video-based learning format, which provides an engaging alternative to text-heavy courses. As one Reddit user shared, “I personally use the Becker one when in a pinch because I prefer the video-based format rather than the ‘read this and then answer a quiz’ format that some others do.” This approach makes it easier to absorb complex material, especially for those who prefer visual learning, adding to Becker’s appeal as a top CPE provider.
- Accreditation: All Becker courses are NASBA-approved, ensuring that the CPE credits you earn are fully recognized by your state board. This accreditation provides peace of mind, knowing that your efforts directly contribute to fulfilling your licensing requirements and advancing your career.
Cons
- Time Commitment: Becker’s extensive and in-depth course offerings require a bit more time and dedication to fully engage with the material. However, the time invested can pay off in terms of deeper knowledge and skill enhancement, making it a worthwhile consideration for those serious about their professional development.
Final Verdict
If you’re looking for a CPE provider that truly delivers, Becker is the top choice. Its resources are comprehensive, engaging, and tailored to meet the needs of CPAs. With Becker, you’re not just fulfilling your continuing education requirements—you’re investing in your career growth. The depth and quality of their courses, combined with the flexibility to learn on your terms, make Becker a standout option for any CPA serious about advancing in the profession.
2. Illumeo CPE: Best Self-Study Courses
Illumeo CPE stands out as one of the best CPE courses for CPAs, offering over 1,800 courses that are written around a wide array of CPE specialties. The platform is particularly known for its specialized micro-certification programs in areas like SOX, Bookkeeping, and Revenue Recognition, making it ideal for certified public accountants looking to deepen their expertise.
Course Offerings and Subscriptions
Illumeo provides several subscription options tailored to meet customers’ various continuing education needs:
- Premium+ CPE Subscription: This top-tier option offers 365 days of access to all of Illumeo’s content, including 1,800+ CPE courses and 130+ webinars, both premium and regular. It’s best suited for CPAs who want the most comprehensive learning experience.
- Premium CPE Subscription: Also available for a year, this subscription includes over 1,700 courses with premium content and features a compliance tracker to help CPAs stay on top of their CPE requirements.
- On-Demand CPE Subscription: Ideal for those needing flexibility, this subscription offers 1,600+ courses and webinars, with a compliance tracker included. It’s perfect for CPAs who prefer self-study courses and need a wide range of on-demand learning options.
- Webinar CPE Subscription: This option provides 120 hours of live CPE courses within a year, including access to 85+ ethics courses. It’s tailored for professionals who value live, interactive learning experiences.
- Enterprise/Team Subscription: Designed for organizations, this subscription includes 1,700+ courses, user management tools, and comprehensive reporting, making it a scalable solution for teams needing continuing education.
Pros
- Specialized Micro-Certification Programs: Illumeo offers unique certification programs that allow CPAs to specialize in niche areas, enhancing their professional value.
- Comprehensive Compliance Tracking: Illumeo’s compliance tracker covers 50 states and multiple certifications, making it a crucial tool for managing CPE requirements.
- Satisfaction Guarantee: Illumeo provides a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing professionals to explore their offerings risk-free.
Cons
- Limited Premium Access: Lower-tier subscriptions, like On-Demand, lack access to premium and advanced webinars, which might be limiting for professionals looking for the latest CPE content.
- No Downloadable PDFs in Premium+: The Premium+ subscription doesn’t offer downloadable PDFs, which could be a drawback for those who prefer offline access to course materials.
Final Verdict
Illumeo offers a wide range of CPE courses, making it an excellent choice for CPAs seeking specialized learning opportunities. While the platform excels in providing tailored education and comprehensive compliance tracking, some limitations in lower-tier subscriptions might be a consideration for those looking for the most advanced CPE courses. Nonetheless, Illumeo remains a top contender for accounting professionals committed to continuous learning and professional development.
3. Surgent CPE: Innovative Courses for Earning CPE Credits
With over 30 years of experience, Surgent CPE is a good choice for accounting professionals seeking innovative continuing professional education. Surgent offers lots of courses that help you earn your CPE credits easily. You can learn by watching webinars or doing self-study courses, so it’s convenient and high-quality.
Course Offerings and Subscriptions
Surgent offers three primary subscription options tailored to different professional needs:
- 16-Credit Webinar Package: For $499, this package allows professionals to select any 16 credits from up to 5,000 CPE options, offering flexibility for targeted learning.
- Unlimited Webinar Subscription: At $749, this option provides access to up to 5,000 CPE credits over 12 months. It’s ideal for those who need consistent learning opportunities year-round.
- Unlimited Plus: For $899, this premium package offers the most comprehensive experience with access to over 8,000 credits, including live webinars, on-demand videos, and premium courses.
Pros
- Immediate Certification: After completing any online course, professionals receive their CPE certificates instantly via email, making it easy to track CPE progress and meet deadlines.
- Nationwide Recognition: Surgent’s courses are widely accepted across all 50 states and Washington, D.C., ensuring that your credits are recognized no matter where you practice.
Cons
- Extensive Course Catalog: While having numerous options is beneficial, some professionals might find the volume overwhelming. However, this variety ensures you’ll find courses tailored to your needs, whether it’s state-specific ethics courses or emerging topics like artificial intelligence.
- Intensive Learning: Surgent’s content is comprehensive and in-depth, which may require a significant commitment. However, this intensity ensures a thorough understanding of critical topics, making it worthwhile for those serious about their professional development.
- Limited Mobile Experience: While courses are accessible online, Surgent’s platform isn’t as smooth on mobile devices. This can make it harder to complete CPE on the go compared to competitors with more mobile-friendly designs.
Final Verdict
Surgent CPE has the breadth and history to make it a dependable option, but bigger isn’t always better. The sheer size of the catalog can leave you sifting through more than you’ll ever use, and the long, sometimes clunky format doesn’t always fit the rhythm of a busy professional’s life. It gets the job done, but often without the polish, ease, or support you’ll find with providers like Becker or Gleim.
4. Gleim CPE: Top Value for Flexible Learning
Gleim CPE is highly regarded among accounting professionals for offering exceptional value in continuing professional education. With a wide range of instructional methods—like video lectures, interactive quizzes, and detailed outlines—Gleim caters to various learning styles, making it easier for certified public accountants to earn CPE credits.
Course Features and Offerings
Gleim’s flexible package system allows you to select the exact number of credits you need, with substantial savings as low as $6 per hour, depending on the package. After purchasing a package, you have 12 months to choose your courses and another 12 months to complete them, ensuring plenty of time to meet your continuing education requirements.
- 100-Hour Package: This package, priced at $600, offers access to Gleim’s extensive course catalog, making it the best deal for maximizing learning opportunities and CPE credits.
- Other Packages: Options range from a 40-hour package at $280 to a 1-hour package at $12, allowing professionals to tailor their learning to their specific needs.
Pros
- Adaptable Learning Environment: Gleim’s platform supports flexible learning, letting you study anywhere, anytime, and align with your schedule.
- Diverse Instructional Formats: With a mix of audiovisual presentations, quizzes, and assessments, Gleim offers a dynamic learning experience that enhances comprehension and retention.
- Efficiency and Value: Gleim provides a cost-effective way to fulfill CPE requirements, offering practical, stress-free professional development.
Cons
- Navigational Challenges: The extensive course catalog may be overwhelming for some users, making it crucial to identify the most relevant CPE courses for your professional growth.
- Preference for Structured Learning: While Gleim’s self-study format is efficient, those who prefer more structured or interactive learning environments may find it less engaging.
Final Verdict
Gleim CPE offers a highly flexible and cost-effective solution for earning your credits. Its comprehensive course catalog and adaptable learning environment make it a top choice for CPAs looking to meet their continuing education requirements with ease. While the platform’s extensive options might seem daunting at first, its value and convenience are hard to beat for professionals seeking efficient, personalized learning opportunities. For more details check out this comparison of Becker vs Gleim CPE courses.
5. My-CPE: Best for State-Specific Ethics Courses
My-CPE stands out for its state-specific ethics courses, ensuring that CPAs meet their exact continuing education requirements without over- or under-earning CPE credits. This targeted approach is especially beneficial for CPAs who need to stay compliant with state board regulations.
Pros
- Bite-Sized Learning: My-CPE offers “MyCPE Shorts,” which are quick, focused courses designed to help CPAs earn their credits efficiently. These short sessions make it easy to fit continuing education into a busy schedule.
- Flexible Subscriptions: Whether you’re an individual professional or part of a team, My-CPE provides tailored subscription plans that cater to different needs, allowing for both personal and group professional development.
- Virtual Conferences: My-CPE hosts engaging virtual conferences that bring together industry experts and professionals. These conferences are an excellent opportunity for CPAs to earn CPE credits while gaining insights into the latest industry trends and best practices.
Cons
- Inconsistent Course Quality: While many courses are top-notch, the quality can vary across the platform, leading to an uneven learning experience.
- Customer Service Issues: Users have reported that customer service responsiveness has been a significant concern. On their TrustPilot profile, one user stated, “All calls today within normal business hours go to voicemail and no callbacks.” Complaints like these highlight issues with delays and unhelpful support, making it frustrating for those needing timely assistance.
- Auto-Renewal and Refund Concerns: My-CPE’s auto-renewal policy can lead to unexpected charges, and users have encountered challenges when seeking refunds despite a 30-day refund policy.
Final Verdict
My-CPE offers valuable state-specific courses and unique features like “MyCPE Shorts” and virtual conferences. However, potential users should be aware of the platform’s drawbacks, including varying course quality and customer service issues. While My-CPE is a good option for fulfilling state-specific CPE needs, it’s essential to weigh these factors before committing to a subscription.
Conclusion
After reviewing the top CPE courses, it’s clear that not all options are created equal. I get that choosing the right course can feel like another task on your already full plate, but investing in the right CPE course can make all the difference in your professional development.
For me, Becker really stands out. It’s not just about earning CPE credits; it’s about gaining knowledge that can propel your career forward. If you want a course that’s worth your time and effort, Becker is the top choice.
FAQs
CPE courses are essential for maintaining your CPA license. They help you stay current with industry changes, enhance your skills, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. These courses cover various topics, like accounting, ethics, and tax updates, which are crucial for delivering accurate and ethical services to clients.
To choose the best CPE courses, consider your career goals, the relevance of course topics taught, and your state’s requirements. Look for accredited providers like Becker that offer a variety of CPE learning formats, including live webinars and self-study courses, ensuring flexibility and comprehensive coverage of essential topics.
Yes, online CPE courses are highly effective and offer flexibility that traditional in-person courses might not. They allow you to learn at your own pace, access a broad range of topics, and earn CPE credits conveniently from anywhere. Interactive features like quizzes and live webinars can enhance the learning experience.
State-specific ethics courses focus on the ethical guidelines and regulations relevant to the state where you’re licensed. These courses are mandatory for CPAs to ensure they understand and comply with local laws and professional standards, which is critical for maintaining their CPA license and avoiding disciplinary actions.
The number of CPE credits required varies by state, typically ranging from 40 to 120 hours every one to three years. It’s essential to check your state’s specific requirements, including any mandatory ethics courses, to stay compliant and keep your CPA license active. Regularly earning CPE credits also helps you stay updated on industry developments.
