WGU grad conflicted about master’s program choice – does school prestige actually matter for getting into public accounting?

Navigating Graduate School Choices: Does Prestige Matter for Public Accounting?

As I approach graduation with my bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Western Governors University (WGU), I’m facing a significant decision regarding my next steps. To qualify for the CPA exam, I need to complete 150 credit hours, and I’ve been weighing two options that could shape my future in public Accounting.

I’ve noticed a recurring theme in discussions online: the debate over whether school prestige plays a role in hiring decisions once you’ve obtained your CPA license. Despite hearing that the credential carries more weight than where it was earned, I’m feeling uncertain about this perspective and its implications for my career.

Here are the options I’m considering:

1. Staying at WGU for my master’s degree: This choice is budget-friendly and offers a familiar learning environment.
2. Transferring to a traditional state university: This route may provide a more conventional education experience.

However, there’s a lingering concern regarding the stigma that often accompanies online degrees, particularly those from competency-based programs like WGU, which utilize pass/fail grading and assign a standardized GPA. I’m apprehensive that this could hinder my prospects when applying to public accounting firms or seeking competitive entry-level roles.

I’m reaching out to the community for guidance, particularly from those who have navigated the hiring landscape—whether as job seekers themselves or as hiring managers:

• Do recruiters truly overlook a school’s reputation once an applicant has earned their CPA?
• Are there any success stories of individuals from WGU who have transitioned into roles at Big 4 or mid-tier accounting firms?
• Is the investment of time and money in a traditional program justifiable, or does the CPA outweigh concerns about school prestige?

While I understand the common advice that “the CPA is more important than the school name,” I still worry that sticking with WGU for my master’s could narrow my opportunities in the public accounting sector. I would greatly appreciate insights from those who have faced similar decisions or have relevant experiences to share.

Thank you for your thoughts!