The Certificate in Public Accounting is the oldest and best-known certification in accounting. Its 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’s financial statements. A certified public accountant (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. Accounting does not have a management accounting orientation, it is held by many management accountants.