Is this combined degree program worth it?

I am studying accounting at a non-target, and I have the opportunity to graduate after 5 years with a Masters in Accounting along with my bachelors. At the end of this 5-year program, it is also likely that I would soon become a CPA candidate (the program would allow me to sit for it). Since this is a combined-degree program, it is really not that expensive, so that is not an issue. At first, I jumped at the opportunity, but now I am thinking the degree could be a bad signal for finance jobs or better yet, b-school admissions. At the end of the program, I know the job opportunities would be pretty nice, so I would get good work experience (likely in the accounting field, not financial).

To me it seems silly to actually say no to such an opportunity, but sometimes I feel that certain situations are precarious. The only aspect of the program making me consider it is that it is a cheap, combined-degree program with good recruiting. I really want to take advantage of it without hindering my future goal of a top MBA. I was wondering what you people in the community think?

There is also a similar program that offers a MFin. I am assuming this, too, may ruin my chances?

Thank you.

6 Comments
 
Best Response
maktec5If you're thinking of an MBA sometime after working, the Masters could ruin your chances. Just saying

How is having a masters degree going to ruin his chances? I know in some states, at least in IL, you need 150 hours to sit for the CPA. Getting the masters degree is a great way to do that, while actually adding value. It's a waste in my opinion to get a undergraduate degree in accounting and then to just take 30 hours of BS. Either get the masters or double major in accounting and finance. Either works. Finance & accounting would make more sense if your goal is Finance.

 

A double major in any business-ey field is not possible at my school. If I want the CPA, I must do the MAcc program or MSF program. I could simply go for a bachelors, and get a great GPA, but then I will not earn a CPA. However, I would probably land Big 4 job anyway.

 

Big 4 isn't going to recruit you if you aren't eligible to sit for the CPA. That is for accounting anyways.

Double major is not possible? Even in 5 years?

I would definitely go for a masters then. It's totally up to you what you want to pick. I would pick the major that reflects your career goals. Do you want to work in account or finance in the end? IF finance, I would get the MSF.

 

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Alex Chu www.mbaapply.com

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