Individuals in the accounting and auditing profession have a considerable responsibility to the general public. To gain public trust and maintain professionalism, professional conduct and ethical behavior are necessary. This course is designed to meet the ethics requirements for active Colorado CPAs renewing their licenses. It covers standards of professional conduct and business practices adhered to by accountants such as CPAs in order to enhance their profession and maximize idealism, justice and fairness when dealing with the public, clients and other members of their profession.

The course begins with a presentation of ethics and ethical behavior, discussing the relationship between morals and ethics and identifying the causes of unethical behavior. It explains the process of ethical reasoning and how to apply it when dilemmas occur. It addresses the most recent version of the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct, along with the conceptual framework approach to coping with ethical dilemmas. Case studies that demonstrate the application of ethical principles and values are utilized. It discusses the Colorado Statutes and Rules that pertain to CPAs licensed to practice in the State of Colorado. Students will become familiar with the Colorado Revised Statutes, the Rules of the State Board of Accountancy, and the Policies adopted by the Board currently in effect and how the statutes, rules, and policies pertain to them.

This course does not fulfill the Colorado Rules and Regulations (CR&R) course requirements for new or reactivating CPAs.