How to become a Computer Systems Auditor
Computer systems auditors are involved in the design and monitoring of control systems, which ensure the accuracy and security of data. They also review an organisation's computing environment and the use of their computer facilities. Computer systems auditors provide managers with expert opinions about the reliability of results and operations of computer systems. It is essential that computer systems auditors understand both the accounting and information technology implications of computer systems.
Personal requirements for a Computer Systems Auditor
- Interested in business
- Accuracy and attention to detail
- Logical and analytical
- Good communication and interpersonal skills
- Good leadership skills
Education & Training for a Computer Systems Auditor
To become a computer systems auditor you usually have to complete a degree in information technology, accounting, commerce, information systems or business information systems. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your Senior Secondary Certificate of Education. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English and mathematics are normally required. Institutions have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study. Contact the institutions you are interested in for more information.
Additional information
Membership of the Australian Computer Society is available to those who hold, or are working towards, suitable qualifications. There is a range of membership types available, allowing progression through the various levels as a member's career develops.
Duties & Tasks of a Computer Systems Auditor
Computer systems auditors:
- Analyse information processing systems to assess their completeness, accuracy, validity and efficiency
- Assess business systems to gauge the accuracy, completeness and timeliness of transaction processing
- Review applications systems and business procedures, and assess their effectiveness in achieving desired business objectives
- Participate in new system design to ensure an efficient, effective and well-controlled system
- Evaluate an organisation's computing environment for effective systems software, systems development and security procedures
- Check software and hardware acquisition in terms of its economic and operational efficiency
- Check and report on the usage of computing facilities
- Talk with data processing management and system users
- Write reports and recommendations for improvement in computing facility management.
Tasks
- Schedules and conducts quality audit inspections, and analyses and reviews systems, data and documentation.
- Identifies variations and potential high risk areas in securing adherence to standards and procedures.
- Communicates, educates and liaises with users and management to ensure awareness and adherence to standards, procedures and quality control issues and activities.
- Recommends corrective action plans and improvements in the resolution of non-compliance with standards detected through monitoring and auditing of processes and procedures.
Employment Opportunities for a Computer Systems Auditor
Computer systems auditors work in a range of occupational environments. They can work in IT-specific industries, which can be large or small, as well as in industries requiring their expertise. They may work as part of a team, individually or on a freelance basis. With experience and sufficient start-up money, there are opportunities for self-employment.
Specializations
Computer Systems Auditor
Computer systems auditors are involved in the design and monitoring of control systems, which ensure the accuracy and security of data. They also review an organisation's computing environment and the use of their computer facilities. Computer systems auditors provide managers with expert opinions about the reliability of results and operations of computer systems. It is essential that computer systems auditors understand both the accounting and information technology implications of computer systems.
Average age
39
Future Growth
N/A
Gender Share
43% female
Average full-time
41 hours
Weekly Pay
N/A
Skill level rating
Very high skill
Unemployment
Lower unemployment
Full-Time Share
87%
Employment Size
1,000
Employment by state
ACT: 5.6%
NSW: 40.9%
NT: 0.0%
QLD: 10.6%
SA: 4.4%
TAS: 1.4%
VIC: 30.9%
WA: 6.2%
Age brackets
15-19: 0%
20-24: 3.6%
25-34: 30.3%
35-44: 29.5%
45-54: 19.6%
55-59: 7.9%
60-64: 5.7%
65 and Over: 3.5%
Education level
Advanced Diploma/Diploma: 11.7%
Bachelor degree: 44.1%
Certificate III/IV: 4.4%
Post Graduate/Graduate Diploma or Graduate Certificate: 29.8%
Year 10 and below: 1.2%
Year 11: 0.5%
Year 12: 8.4%
