For many business professionals, going back to school for a graduate degree seems like a good way to advance their careers. If you already have aBachelor of Science in Accounting, you could choose to earn a Master of Business Administration (MBA), whereas others might decide to become a certified public account (CPA).
While they share some similarities, MBAs and CPAs are not the same things. These options open different opportunities while providing advanced knowledge in business. Here are the key differences between an MBA in Accounting and a CPA:
1. Education
The biggest difference between an MBA and a CPA is that an MBA is an academic degree whereas a CPA is a credential.
A general MBA is a graduate degree that focuses on business leadership and management while helping students improve their critical thinking and strategic decision-making skills.
CPA is a financial accreditation awarded by theAmerican Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), and it is seen as a mark of achievement in the accountingindustry. It is earned by fulfilling educational requirements, experience qualifications and passing a CPA exam that is conducted by the AICPA, though the exact requirementsvary by statewith some states requiring study beyond a four-year degree. It is possible that earning your MBA may fulfill the educational requirements to apply for CPA licensure in some states or jurisdictions, so always check before you make any assumptions.
2. Career
If you are passionate about accounting and finance and want to become an accountant, then becoming a CPA is a good opportunity to demonstrate your expertise. Having your CPA sets you up for a career in finance and accounting and should allow you to grow in your organization. Potential careers could include Chief Financial Officer (CFO), auditor, tax advisor or forensic accountant.
If you would like a diverse degree to complement your knowledge in accounting orare interested in pursuing a career outside of finance, then an MBA might be right for you. An MBA generally sets you up for more management or business consulting related positions, with manyoptions depending on your specialization. According to U.S. News and World Report, thesefive careers often attract MBA graduates:
- Marketing manager
- Medical and health services manager
- Financial manager
- Database administrator
- Business operations manager
Management positions vary by specialization and previous work experience, so MBA graduates should keep that in mind.
3. Salary
While both an MBA and CPA can lead to lucrative careers, they each have different earning potential. According to compensation projections by theNational Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), the predicted average starting salary for MBA graduates in 2020 will be $79,043 annually. However, this is contingent upon the state, experience and what kind of MBA is earned.
CPAs have different earning potential. According to theBureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), accountants and auditors earn on average $71,550 annually.However, CPAs with more experience have a greater earning potential, and those who have 20 years of experience could earn up to$150,000annually.
You could do both
If you can’t decide which path is best for you, you could always do both! It is possible to earn your MBA and CPA at the same time. If you have your MBAbut you would like to advance your career and specialize in corporate finance or taxes, then it might be a good idea to become a CPA. Likewise, if you are a CPA who wants to have a better understanding of management and business operations, earning your MBA might be useful.
However, you should always do your research and plan well ahead of time before starting to earn your MBA or CPA. Network and talk with others who have their MBA and/or CPA to see what insights and advice they have to offer. Both have advantages and disadvantages that can be more or less important based on your career interests and strengths.
Herzing University’s Accounting program does not meet the requirements for a graduate to take the CPA exam in most states. Applicants interested in becoming a CPA should check with their state board of accountancy regarding CPA eligibility requirements before enrolling in any accounting program.
* Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics 2023 / Occupational Outlook Handbook 2022. BLS estimates do not represent entry-level wages and/or salaries. Multiple factors, including prior experience, age, geography market in which you want to work and degree field, will affect career outcomes and earnings. Herzing neither represents that its graduates will earn the average salaries calculated by BLS for a particular job nor guarantees that graduation from its program will result in a job, promotion, salary increase or other career growth.
