[shanek327]

thanks!

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2 Corinthians 5:21

Our value does not come from our skills and abilities, as good as they may be; it does not come from our GPA, our job, a promotion from that job to a better job, our success on the CPA exam, or anything of the like; but our value comes from the fact that we have a Creator who loves us, cares for us, and desires to help us navigate the rough waters of this life in a way that provides security, hope, and true, everlasting joy while we anticipate the life to come, with Him.

[Missy]

Well its been said over and over again that all have a modest ROI, if any.With a CPA don't expect that any of the three will make a significant difference in your earnings potential.

That said, despite what others would advise,it absolutely can get your resume more attention than a similar candidate without a grad degree when an employer is looking at resumes side by side.

If someone else is paying I think a Macc is virtually worthless with a cpa (yes, I have a MACC, was 3/4 through it before I decided to sit for the CPA or I likely wouldn't have). MTax, just be sure you want a career in tax no sense doing it if you decide you hate tax 2 years in. MBA is valuable in industry if you are looking toward a position that encompasses more than accounting (like a controller or CFO)

If I were you I'd put some serious thought into long term career goals FIRST, then consider what path will help you get there.

Licensed Massachusetts Non Reporting CPA since 2012
Finance/Admin/HR Manager

[shanek327]

long term career goal – federal government; does that help narrow it down?

FAR - 75
AUD - 78
BEC - 82
REG - 77

2 Corinthians 5:21

Our value does not come from our skills and abilities, as good as they may be; it does not come from our GPA, our job, a promotion from that job to a better job, our success on the CPA exam, or anything of the like; but our value comes from the fact that we have a Creator who loves us, cares for us, and desires to help us navigate the rough waters of this life in a way that provides security, hope, and true, everlasting joy while we anticipate the life to come, with Him.

[Anonymous]

Since you have already passed the CPA exam I would go for an MBA and take tax electives. Most of the MAcc programs are designed to prepare students to pass the CPA exam.

[Nessie]

Mia, It depends where you are. I am in NYC and know Wall Street types who haven’t made less than $3 mill since 2006 with MBA and CPA. The big bucks are in finance (in combination with a CPA).

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[mhueycpa]

I have commodity trading clients who have college degrees from “What School is that?” University and yet they make millions every year, they interned for other traders learned the business got backed by their old bosses and make a killing for themselves. No CPA, MBA, barely an AA. It's all relative to industry, expectations, etc. If you're doing to have your own tax practice or stay in tax then go for the MST. As far as an MBA is concerned, unless its from a Top 5-10 school, it's a useful as the paper its written on! What in the Federal Government will you be doing? If I'm not mistaken don't you get a bump in pay just for having a Masters degree (no specific focus necessary)? If that's the case spend the money in what your interested in. (want advanced knowledge of accounting go with the MACC, tax go for the MST, general business MBA). Good luck!

THE 300 CLUB WILL DO JUST FINE!

[Anonymous]

Federal Government? I can answer this question than.

It doesn't matter. You want a Masters degree but it really doesn't matter which one it is. My Agency puts much more emphasis on a Masters degree than anything else. My Agency has one of the largest concentration of CPAs outside of Public Accounting you'll ever find but they still put more emphasis on education.

Education (i.e. a Masters degree) will get you in the door easier than without one. You'll also start higher up on the Grade Scale ladder than someone without it. So why the CPA you may ask? You need the CPA for advancement. The Masters will get you in the door at a decent grade scale but you won't be able to get much further until you get your CPA. Since you have it already you'll be able to come in at a decent GS and your ceiling will be much higher than if you were lacking either one.

[JohnWayneIsGod]

I have a MAcc, and spent a lot of time getting ready for an MBA that I didn't pursue. Here are my thoughts:

1) MAcc only if it helps to fulfill CPA requirements in your state, or if you don't have a undergrad in accounting

2) MST only if you want to work in tax and want to go far in a tax career

3) MBA only if you test well on the GMAT and get into a top school, and you want to consult or be in the C-Suite.

For most accountants, I think a Bachelor's and a CPA opens a ton of doors–even more are opened if that includes Big 4 experience. From there it is all about working in a place that puts you on a desired career path. In some other cases it might include obtaining various other certifications, such as the CFE.

FAR - 80

Courage is being scared to death, but saddling up anyway.

-John Wayne

[Missy]

Nessie I realize that however what percentage of people with both credentials do they represent? I think that's anecdotal rather than corollary.

Licensed Massachusetts Non Reporting CPA since 2012
Finance/Admin/HR Manager

[CPA2BEE]

Interesting thread. My boss is pushing hard for me to go for my MST once I finish up the CPA. But to be honest, I'm pretty reluctant and don't really want to do it. Anyone out there really think this will be the difference maker in my career? I'm 25, worked in tax for just over 2 years now, and working to finish my CPA this year. Anyone out there career really change from a MST, or know anyone who has?

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EXPERIENCE - COMPLETE
Application for California license mailed 8/4/2016

[Nessie]

Mia, in NYC it’s the norm, especially if one is pursuing a career in investment baking, restructuring or other senior finance role. There are very few CFOs without MBA/CPAs. I guess it depends on location and personal goals. Also, the investment banks like when a person couples a finance degree with a CPA because they know what goes on behind the pure finance numbers.

CPA2BEE, I know someone who started off at the lowest of pay with one of the big 4 with an undergraduate degree and a CPA. They got an MBA and became a CFO of a publicly traded company and needless to say, they make a huge income. Although, having the ability to negotiate deals certainly helped as well.

CEOs, if they are not lawyers by trade, very often have both an MBA and CPA.

REG Aug 20/15: 88
AUD: Feb 29/16: 80
FAR: Jun 10/16: 80
BEC?

Becker self-study, Becker Final Review & NINJA MCQS

[Author]

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