SOX Audit

The SOX Audit Fundamentals course provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX) and its impact on financial reporting and internal controls. The course cover...

Delivery Method: Instructor-Led Training

Course Delivery Format: live

Course Level

Timeline

Price

£200

Description

The SOX Audit Fundamentals course provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX) and its impact on financial reporting and internal controls. The course covers the key principles, requirements, and best practices associated with conducting effective SOX audits. Participants will learn how to assess and test internal controls, identify control deficiencies, and develop recommendations for remediation. The course also explores the roles and responsibilities of auditors, management, and audit committees in ensuring compliance with SOX regulations

Course Objectives

  • Understand the purpose and significance of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.
  • Familiarize participants with the key sections and requirements of SOX legislation.
  • Gain insight into the roles and responsibilities of auditors and other stakeholders in the SOX audit process.
  • Develop a systematic approach to planning and scoping a SOX audit.
  • Learn techniques for assessing and testing internal controls to ensure compliance.
  • Explore methods for documenting audit procedures and workpapers effectively.
  • Understand the reporting requirements and the creation of audit reports for management and external stakeholders.
  • Recognize common challenges and issues encountered during SOX audits and strategies to address them.
  • Stay up-to-date with recent developments and changes in SOX regulations and their impact on auditing practices.

Course Outline

Course Outline for SOX Audit

Introduction to SOX

  • Overview of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
  • Historical context and purpose of SOX
  • Key provisions and sections of SOX
  • Impact of SOX on financial reporting and corporate governance

Internal Control Frameworks

  • Understanding internal control concepts
  • Overview of COSO and COBIT frameworks
  • Identifying key control objectives
  • Linking internal controls to financial reporting

SOX Compliance Requirements

  • Section 302: Corporate Responsibility for Financial Reports
  • Section 404: Management Assessment of Internal Controls
  • Section 409: Real-Time Disclosure
  • Section 802: Criminal Penalties for Altering Documents

Planning and Conducting a SOX Audit

  • Roles and responsibilities of auditors; management and audit committees
  • Audit planning and risk assessment
  • Developing a SOX audit program
  • Documentation and evidence gathering

Testing Internal Controls

  • Designing and executing control tests
  • Walkthroughs and control documentation
  • Sample selection techniques
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of controls

Identifying Control Deficiencies

  • Types of control deficiencies
  • Material weakness vs. significant deficiency
  • Impact on financial reporting and audit opinions
  • Reporting control deficiencies to management and audit committees

Remediation and Continuous Improvement

  • Developing recommendations for control improvements
  • Monitoring and tracking remediation efforts
  • Reporting on remediation progress
  • Leveraging audit findings for continuous improvement

SOX Audit Challenges and Emerging Trends

  • Common challenges faced during SOX audits
  • Regulatory developments and evolving requirements
  • Technology and automation in SOX audits
  • Integrated audits and coordination with other assurance functions

Ethical Considerations in SOX Audits

  • Professional ethics and independence
  • Ethical dilemmas in the audit process
  • Confidentiality and information security
  • Code of conduct for auditors

Case Studies and Practical Applications

  • Analyzing real-world SOX audit scenarios
  • Applying audit techniques and methodologies
  • Problem-solving and decision-making exercises
  • Group discussions and knowledge sharing

Course Prerequisites

Participants should have a basic understanding of IT auditing concepts.

Career Path

  • Information Security GRC Analyst
  • IT Auditing
  • Cybersecurity Risk Analyst

Target Audience

  • IT Audtor
  • IT professionals interested in learning SOX
  • Anyone seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills in regulatory complaince.

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Exams & Certifications

  • IT Audit Fundamentals by ISACA
  • CISA - Certified Information Systems Auditor
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