Many finance professionals are considering a master’s degree to advance their careers. But what degree should they pursue? Many students decide between an MBA and a Master of Science in Accounting.
An MBA with a concentration in accounting is ideal for mid-career professionals or those looking to make a career shift. SNHU’s online MBA program is also designed to accommodate the busy schedules of working professionals.
Career Advancement
Whether you’re a career changer wanting to move into management or a current accounting professional seeking an executive-level position, an MBA in Accounting can provide the necessary skills. An MBA accounting online also offers a broader understanding of business management, which can help you advance your career even further.
Consider an online MBA program that offers a combination of full-time and part-time studies, synchronous or asynchronous learning, and optional internship opportunities to expand your network and advance your career. In addition, many schools offer scholarships and grants to help reduce the cost of your degree.
One other benefit to earning an MBA is that you get to meet people from all around the world. This provides a unique perspective on how businesses operate in different areas and helps you to develop your global strategy skills.
Flexibility
Online MBA programs are designed for full-time professionals needing more time or flexibility to attend classes. For instance, many programs at William Paterson University offer evening and weekend class options. Some offer asynchronous learning, meaning you can complete coursework on your schedule without needing to be online at the same time as other students.
An accounting MBA offers a flexible curriculum to help you advance your career without relocating or taking time off work. You can build specialized skills and knowledge in financial reporting and budgeting, federal taxation regulation, and accounting information systems.
An MBA with an accounting concentration is typically geared toward mid-career professionals or business graduates who want to expand their professional horizons. The curriculum will help you develop leadership skills and understand the business landscape.
Job Opportunities
The career prospects for those with an MBA in accounting are bright. Business and financial management roles are growing, and the skills acquired through an MBA program can be applied to several business-based disciplines.
An MBA can also give you a leg up when starting your business. In addition to learning about business fundamentals, you will have access to coursework that teaches you how to manage a company and develop business strategies.
Many online graduate programs offer scholarships and fellowships to help offset the cost of tuition. Students should research these options before deciding on an online MBA program. They should also consider whether their employer offers tuition reimbursement or other educational benefits.
Higher Salary
Online MBA programs offer several benefits that can help students find more lucrative careers, including higher salaries. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), graduate students earn more on average than undergraduate students.
Students looking to enroll in an MBA program should look for one that offers various specializations. These can include healthcare accounting, international accounting, and more.
A student should also consider the size of an MBA program. Larger schools often offer more networking opportunities, while smaller programs provide more personal attention to each student. Lastly, students should look for scholarships and financial aid opportunities available to graduate students. These can cover some or all of their tuition costs. Then, they can focus on getting the most out of their educational experience.
Personal Growth
Online MBA students often report greater self-confidence and academic achievement due to their studies. Moreover, many employers offer tuition reimbursement programs to support their employees’ educational pursuits, making online MBA programs even more affordable for working professionals.
In addition, a graduate degree can provide the opportunity to connect with fellow students from different industries and locations who share similar goals. Many online MBA students also leverage productivity tools to balance work, school, and family commitments. Setting SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound) goals is another great way to manage multiple responsibilities. This helps ensure that essential objectives receive the attention they deserve and can help individuals stay on track toward achieving their desired results.