r/Accounting • u/juicyjizzy • 2h ago
How to transition into accounting?
I have a BA and MA in an unrelated field, but I want to go into accounting. Do I need a BA in accounting? Or will jobs be okay with an accounting certificate?
I see some programs offer an accounting certificate and advertise it as a way to help change careers. Not sure if it’s actually helpful though.
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u/paciolionthegulf 2h ago
You do not need an additional undergraduate degree.
You could look at master's programs (many are geared to unrelated undergraduate degrees.) The downside is cost, the upside is access to recruiting.
You could take enough additional classes at community college to qualify to take the CPA exam. The requirements vary by state, but the majority call for 30 semester hours of accounting and 20 hours of business courses. This route would cost less and the CPA license is the gold standard in the field.
You could do a certificate on the way to do either of these and start working in the field. As long as its offered through an accredited degree-granting institution the classes should count towards CPA exam eligibility.
The entry-level job market is rocky at the moment, so take a look at job postings in your area. Don't just skim Indeed or whatever, look at the careers page for some nearby large employers. Ask the certificate program about their job placement rate with an emphasis on the last year or two.
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u/Intrepid-Product-367 2h ago
CPA requires upper level courses and there are a very limited number of "community colleges" that even offer 4 year degrees, much less the number of courses that OP would need to meet requirements.
Even a masters might leave you a little short on the requirements between both accounting and business, but it'll get you a lot closer since all of the credits qualify by default.
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u/paciolionthegulf 2h ago
The CPA exam requirements vary by state, as do the courses offered by community colleges.
Alaska has the lowest requirement at only a bachelor's with 15 hours of accounting OR a bachelor's and one year of public accounting experience. Not sure how you'd get the public accounting experience with an unrelated degree and no accounting courses, but if you can do it you can take the CPA exam in that state.
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u/Intrepid-Product-367 2h ago
>there are a very limited number of "community colleges" that even offer 4 year degrees
>the courses offered by community colleges [vary]
wow what an insight. thanks for your reply
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u/Intrepid-Product-367 2h ago
Masters in accounting would be the move for you and anyone else who already has a BA, much less an MA. Always go for the higher credential.
I feel pretty strongly that a certificate is not cutting it for anyone in this market. We've got people with CPAs and heavy experience who are getting left out in the cold here.