[ParanoidAndroid]

I’m already a CPA, but I’ve been thinking a lot about going for my Macc so I can get a real job. It seems like that’s my last resort. I already have 12 Master level credits, but those credits would not transfer because I plan to attend a different university due to its prestige and networking opportunities. The program costs $28,000 and runs for 10 months on Saturdays only from 8am-6pm…2 hrs away from where I live…

Does this seem a reasonable idea or am I losing it? =P

CPA for life...

[jeff]

Would you write a check for $28,000 so that you *might* get a job because you wrote that check?

[Anonymous]

The only reason I would consider getting a masters is if I wanted to teach at a college level. At the university in our town it is required to be a CPA and have a masters in order to teach accounting.

[ParanoidAndroid]

@Jeff…I wouldn't, but it has come to either that or just being stuck and making 40k at a place where I basically don't do anything..I did a lot of networking while I was in college, BAP, summa cum laude, etc, etc..I'm probably the only CPA from my graduating class….I guess I'm just shocked that I can't even get a job at the local CPA firms even though I know people who work there..Not even replies to my applications..i just feel like the biggest CPA failure…lol

CPA for life...

[jeff]

Start your own firm on the side (do NOT quit your job)…do write up for small mom and pop mechanic shops…

Start reading a book a week.

Guerrilla Marketing

everything Seth Godin has ever written

Rework

Street Smarts

If things aren't going your way – make things happen. Go TO the marketplace…don't wait for it to come to you.

A $28,000 diploma won't fix anything.

[Jaimcpa]

I say go for it. I know Jeff is anti any-advanced-degree if you already have your CPA or are wanting to get the credits to become licensed but don't let him get to you lol. At the end of the day, most recruiters I talked with say they prefer a candidate with their Masters. I feel the only reason I landed my job at a large national firm was because I was doing this program. Job aside, there are also a lot of other things doing something like this will land you.

IDC how you slice it. If you are going to a good school, the ROI from an advanced degree is priceless (especially all the good things that happen in the process, you'll make some great friends).

In your current situation, maybe an MBA might benefit you a little more. The only downside is that they cost a little more and you really want to go to a nice school if you are going to do one. It seems you found one, how is their MBA ranked?

If you have the time, commitment, and financial position. Go for it.

FAR- 73, 10/07/2013
REG- 8/31/2013
AUD- TBD
BEC- TBD

MAcc
Main: Becker Self-Study 2013. Supplements: Ninja / Wiley TB / CPAExcel (Bought before I received an offer).

[jeff]

“Dude go for it … $28k might land you a job…I heard some recruiters say its a good idea” is what you're saying.

I'm anti-crappy ROI.

[Jaimcpa]

Have you been through a program? A decent one? I am just speaking off of my own experience. I know the value of money ( at least I hope I do given my background). I know how important it is. I am also assuming he does too. If he can afford it, is in the position to do it, then do it. I am saying it is worth it based off my own experience.

I don't mean to sound harsh but look,

I am not saying it will make him BETTER than anyone else.

I am not saying he SHOULDN'T consider the financial implications.

I am not saying it will GUARANTEE him (or her?) a job.

I am not saying this is the END ALL BE ALL thing or you are screwed.

I just would hate someone who is in a GOOD financial position to not go ahead with this if they ARE considering it. I've seen way too much good that comes from these things. For those of you who can't due to financial stress, yes, there are other ways, and no, I do not know if the roads are bumpier to achieve the same result as I have no experience to draw from.

FAR- 73, 10/07/2013
REG- 8/31/2013
AUD- TBD
BEC- TBD

MAcc
Main: Becker Self-Study 2013. Supplements: Ninja / Wiley TB / CPAExcel (Bought before I received an offer).

[jeff]

If you're making $300k a year and want to spend $28k on training – no problem.

If you're making $40k and looking at investing more than 50% of your income in order to make more money — only at the great alter of Education do we decide that ROI doesn't come into play on this investment.

When I see people recommending more education – I never see stats or math to back the recommendation (a bit ironic considering it's a business related advanced degree).

All I see are maybes and “I think” and “hopefully” in a $30,000 discussion.

That's my beef with it.

[Tina82]

Jeff – what about a masters in taxation?

R - 74;88
A - 84
B - 74;89
F - no study = 67; May 15 = 87 & done

[jeff]

MS in tax – if you're not going to get a CPA destination and are already working in a tax department in industry, then it might make sense.

I'm not trying to make blanket statements here…I'm simply asking “what's the ROI”? and get frowned at for such ridiculousness 🙂

[jeff]

…and for the record, I have no problem with a MAcc…in fact – if you need 150 hrs…great idea.

The discussion here was a CPA getting a MAcc, which doesn't make sense to me from an ROI perspective in a vacuum.

there are scenarios where it might make sense though (wanting to be a professor and needing it).

[Jaimcpa]

You seem not to take into consideration qualitative factors. At all.

FAR- 73, 10/07/2013
REG- 8/31/2013
AUD- TBD
BEC- TBD

MAcc
Main: Becker Self-Study 2013. Supplements: Ninja / Wiley TB / CPAExcel (Bought before I received an offer).

[ParanoidAndroid]

No, I don't have tons of money to give out, but I was thinking I can apply and get scholarhips and financial aid…may b..

CPA for life...

[mla1169]

Just check out job listings. Very rarely does one say they are looking for a masters AND a CPA. Usually they're looking for one or the other plus some form of relevant experience.

FAR- 77
AUD -49, 71, 84
REG -56,75!
BEC -75

Massachusetts CPA (non reporting) since 3/12.

[jeff]

What are the qualitative factors I'm ignoring?

[Author]

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