[Just3Letters]

Hi friends,
Been a couple years since I’ve posted on here. I’m a CPA (thanks to A71) and I’m an audit senior going into my third year at a regional accounting firm. My dream has always been to go into academia and get my Ph.D. after 5ish years (maybe after making manager).

After my undergrad, I already had enough credits for the CPA exam so I never did any graduate school. My question is – should I be looking into graduate school (say PT MST or MACC) while I’m working over the next couple of years. Through the research I’ve done, most reputable business schools say that they prefer previous graduate work but it’s not required.

I would obviously like to have my resume reflect what admissions counselors prefer.

Thanks and looking forward to your opinions!

FAR- 81
REG- 81
BEC- Aug 22, 2016
AUD- TBD

[Anonymous]

Hello,
I think having a Masters before going into a PhD program is generally the normal route. It is not impossible to get into a PhD without one though. A few things to consider:
-What is the strength of your UG degree (how prestigious is the university, how good was your GPA, etc.?)
-What type of PhD program are you interested in (top-tier vs. regular program)?
-What side of academia are you more interested in (research or teaching)?
-Which emphasis of accounting are you interested in? I noticed you work in audit. I definitely wouldn't recommend an MST if you are interested in Audit/FS.
-Have you taken the GMAT yet? If not, you will need to study very well for it as most schools will like to see a very high GMAT score (at least 700, preferably a 730 or higher).
-What type of Masters programs have you looked at? I would remain hesitant about entirely online programs, as I think they tend to be looked upon skeptically by academics.
My brother is currently a PhD student at a top school. I'm pretty familiar with the admissions process, etc. Let me know if you have any thoughts or questions.
Chandler

[Ryno]

Just my two cents…..Look into MBA programs. With the CPA and an undergrad in accounting, you are not learning anything new or picking up new skills with a MAcc or a MST. MBA is more flexible in generally every aspect from classes to opportunities and it will still help you get into a PhD program.
I have a MAcc and I still feel like I should also have an MBA.

[Author]

Replies