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If you’re interested in accounting, you know it’s important to crunch the numbers before making an investment. Before you enroll in a Master’s of Accounting (MAcc) program, you want to make sure your time and financial commitment will be worth it. A Master’s degree in accounting can prepare you for a variety of positions with higher-than-average salaries.Employment of accountants and auditors is projected to grow 6 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. About 130,800 openings for accountants and auditors are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire, says the BLS.Read on for a closer look at the costs and return on investment of a Master’s degree in accounting, including:
Is a Master’s in accounting worth it?
How long does it take to get a Master’s degree in accounting?
What are the pros and cons of getting a Master’s degree in accounting?
How much does it cost to get a Master’s degree in accounting?
What is a typical Master’s in accounting salary?
What jobs can you get with a Master’s in accounting?
Are Online Accounting Master's Degrees Worthwhile?
When pursuing a Master’s in accounting, you could opt for a traditional on-campus experience or an online program. Online programs are often more affordable than on-campus ones, costing around $8,500 to $11,500 per year while on-campus programs may range from $30,000 up to $120,000 (more on that below). Plus, you won’t have to pay for travel costs or alternative housing arrangements with an online program, and you often have greater flexibility in your schedule. At the same time, it’s important to research an online program before you enroll to make sure it offers good outcomes for students. Track down some information on post-graduation employment and salaries, as well as attrition rates, to make sure it would be a good fit. If you opt to study online, you might also have to put in some extra effort to grow your network, since you won’t have the ease of meeting students and professors in person. Growing your network can be one of the most effective ways to land a job after graduation, so make sure that an online program would offer opportunities to collaborate and connect with others in your field.
How Long Does It Take To Get a Master's Degree in Accounting?
Most Master’s of Accounting programs span two years, though some offer Master’s degrees after one year. If you find a one-year program, make sure that it will equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to move forward in your career. Check out the curriculum and course offerings, and review data on post-graduation outcomes. You might also find out if the school offers career fairs, counseling, or other resources to help you find a job after earning your degree.
Doctorate in Accounting
A PhD is the highest degree you can earn in the field of accounting. It takes four to seven years to complete and typically requires you to complete a dissertation. Pursuing your doctorate in accounting may be a good fit if you wish to conduct accounting research in academic settings or become a college professor. Recommended: Should I Refinance My Student Loans?
Accounting Master's Degree vs Accounting Certifications
A Master’s degree isn’t necessary to work in the field of accounting. You could also make yourself more qualified for job opportunities with an accounting certificate. An accounting certificate is less of a time commitment than a Master’s degree. You can usually earn one in less than a year. It will give you fundamental knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the field of accounting, such as bookkeeping or auditing clerks. A Master’s in accounting, on the other hand, typically involves a full-time, two-year program. It might open the door to a number of high-level positions, including investment manager, benefits manager, and financial advisor. The Master’s degree will likely require a higher initial investment than a certificate program. However, it could lead to a higher salary and more career opportunities, especially in leadership positions.As you explore opportunities for additional education in the field of accounting, consider how these two options stack up:
Master’s degree in accounting
Certification in accounting
Time commitment
2 years
Less than a year
Cost
Higher
Lower
Job opportunities
Management and other leadership positions
Entry-level positions
Benefits of Getting an Accounting Master's Degree
Before committing to a Master’s program, it’s worth considering both the pros and cons. Here are some benefits that could make the accounting degree worth it.
Job opportunities. A Master’s can qualify you for a variety of accounting jobs, especially management positions.
High salary. The median annual wage for accountants and auditors was $79,880 in May 2023, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That number could move into the six-figure range if you work in management.
Knowledge and skills. With a Master’s program, you’ll go through a comprehensive curriculum on the theory and practice of accounting, as well as develop skills such as problem-solving and strategic decision-making. This experience can be personally fulfilling and help you achieve your career goals.
Reasons for Not Getting a Master's in Accounting
At the same time, consider any reasons a Master’s in accounting might not be worth it for you before you enroll. Here are some that might apply:
Additional years in school. If you’re ready to say goodbye to student life and enter the working world, you might not want to commit to an additional two years studying for your Master’s degree.
Tuition and fees. Some programs cost upwards of $50,000 per year, which is a significant investment.
Might need to borrow student loans. Depending on your financial situation, you might have to take on debt to pay for your degree. Combined with any student loans you already borrowed for your undergraduate education, you might find yourself paying off loans for years to come.
Average Student Loan Debt of Graduates
Most master’s degree holders carry a cumulative student loan debt balance of over $80,000 adjusted for inflation, according to the Education Data Initiative. Make sure you’re prepared for student loan repayment so your debt doesn’t derail your other personal and financial goals.
Cost of a Master's in Accounting
The cost of a Master’s in Accounting varies widely among schools. Prices vary greatly, but in 2024, the cost of a Master’s degree typically ranges between $44,640 and $71,140 depending on the school, the type of major, and the length of the program.
Public Out-of-State Tuition
Tuition for out-of-state students at public universities is typically higher than what in-state residents pay.
Private Tuition
The average private school tuition for a Master’s degree in accounting is $62,100.
Online Tuition
An online Master’s degree in accounting typically costs about $26,000 per year, though some can be found for around $10,000.
Type of institution
Cost of Master’s degree in accounting
Private university
$62,100
Public university, in-state student
$29,150
Public university, out-of-state student
In-state costs + $5,000 or more per year
Online
$10,000 per year and up
You might find grants, scholarships, and other types of financial aid (like FAFSA for grad students) that can reduce the price tag. If you get a work-study or other gig (say, an online remote job) while you study, you can also earn some money to offset your cost of attendance.
Jobs That Require a Master's in Accounting
Earning a Master’s in accounting could lead to a number of job opportunities. These include:
Auditor: You’ll inspect a company’s financial records and earn an average salary of $58,394.
Information and technology accountant: You’ll manage the technology systems your company uses to organize financial data and earn an average salary of $95,743.
Financial analyst: You’ll help guide investment decisions through data gathering, financial modeling, and forecasting and earn a median salary of $95,570.
Managerial accountant: You’ll plan and prepare financial reports for your company and earn an average salary of $62,221.
Chief Financial Officer (CFO): You’ll lead a company’s financial management and help make strategic business decisions while earning a median salary of $419,067.
A Master’s degree in accounting could be worth the cost, as it opens the door to a variety of job opportunities with higher-than-average salaries. At the same time, MAcc programs can be costly, so think carefully about how much you’re willing to pay for your degree. An in-person program can provide networking opportunities with students and faculty, but if the price tag is burdensome, perhaps consider enrolling in a less expensive program online course. If the degree equips you with the skills and knowledge you need to achieve your career goals, you might be better off choosing an affordable program over one with sky-high tuition and fees. Recommended: Best Cities for College Grads to Live
Frequently Asked Questions
Is getting a Master’s in accounting hard?
Is a Master’s in accounting enough for a CPA?
Is it better to have an MBA or master’s in accounting?
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About the Author
Rebecca Safier
Rebecca Safier has nearly a decade of experience writing about personal finance. Formerly a senior writer with LendingTree and Student Loan Hero, she specializes in student loans, financial aid, and personal loans. She is certified as a student loan counselor with the National Association of Certified Credit Counselors (NACCC).
