The Certificate in Public Accounting is the oldest and best-know certification in accounting. It is purpose is to provide minimal professional qualification for external auditors. The responsibility of external auditors is to provide assurance concerning the reliability of a firm financial statements. A certified public accountants (CPA) is permitted (by law) to serve as an external auditor. CPAs must pass a national examination and be licensed by the state in which they practice.Although the Certificate in Public accounting does not have a management accounting orientation it is held by many management accountants.