What Can I Do With A Masters In Accounting?

Are you considering pursuing a Masters in Accounting (MSA) degree? If so, you can expect a wide array of professional options to be available to you. A master’s degree in accounting is one of the most versatile and highly sought-after degrees in today’s job market. In this article, we’ll discuss what you can expect to do with a MSA degree and how it can help you advance in your career.

The Case for a Masters in Accounting Degree

Before we dive into the various career opportunities for MSA graduates, let’s first understand why choosing a master’s in accounting degree is a smart move. Here are some of the top benefits for obtaining your MSA:

High demand: As businesses around the world continue to grow, there is an increasing need for qualified accountants. This demand is expected to rise even further in the coming years, making an MSA degree an asset for those interested in the financial world.

Versatile skills: An MSA program provides students with a broad range of accounting knowledge, including financial reporting, tax, audit, and accounting systems. These skills are highly transferable and can be applied to various industries and job roles.

Career advancement: The MSA degree is designed to prepare students for leadership positions in the accounting field. With this degree, you can climb up the corporate ladder and take on more senior roles with higher responsibilities and better pay.

Career Opportunities with a Masters in Accounting 

Now that we have established how pursuing an MSA degree can be a wise decision, let’s explore the various career opportunities available for graduates.

Public Accounting

Public accounting firms are responsible for providing auditing, tax, advisory, and consulting services to clients. With an MSA degree, you can work as a certified public accountant (CPA) at a Big Four firm or other accounting firms. As a CPA, you will be responsible for reviewing financial statements, conducting audits, and providing tax advice to clients. 

Public accounting offers a dynamic and challenging work environment, with opportunities for career growth and attractive salary packages.

Corporate Accounting

Many corporations hire MSA graduates to manage their financial functions. As a corporate accountant, you will be responsible for preparing financial reports, budgeting and forecasting, managing cash flow, and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations. This role offers excellent job security, competitive salaries, and opportunities for career advancement.

Government Accounting

Government agencies also require accountants to manage their financial operations. As a government accountant, you will be responsible for keeping track of public funds, preparing budgets and financial reports, and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations. 

This role offers excellent benefits, including job stability, generous retirement plans, and opportunities for career growth.

Non-Profit Accounting

Non-profit organizations, such as charities, hospitals, and educational institutions, also require the expertise of accountants. As a non-profit accountant, you will be responsible for managing the organization’s finances and ensuring that funds are used effectively to achieve its mission. This role offers an excellent opportunity to make a positive impact on society while using your accounting skills.

Financial Services

Many financial institutions, such as banks, investment firms, and insurance companies, hire MSA graduates to manage their finances. In this role, you will be responsible for analyzing financial data and providing insights to make informed business decisions. This career path offers attractive salary packages, opportunities for growth and advancement, and the chance to work in a fast-paced and dynamic industry.

Other Career Paths (Non-Accounting)

Professionals with accounting degrees are not limited to exclusively being auditors and accountants. In fact, the analytical, technical and organizational skills acquired through MSA coursework can you prepare them for a variety of careers beyond accounting. This may include roles in industries such as technology, law enforcement or business. 

Get Equipped to Thrive in Any Field with an MSA from Wake Forest

Whether you choose to work in public or corporate accounting, financial services or another professional field, a Masters in Accounting program can give you the tools to succeed anywhere. Learn more about one of the nations’ top MSA programs and jumpstart your career today.