Navigating Graduate Choices: The Impact of School Prestige on Your Accounting Career

As I approach graduation with my bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Western Governors University (WGU), I’m faced with a pivotal decision regarding my next steps. To qualify for the CPA exam, I need to complete 150 credit hours, and I find myself at a crossroads: should I pursue my master’s at WGU or transfer to a more traditional state school?

In my research and discussions, I’ve encountered varying opinions about school prestige. Many seasoned professionals suggest that the name of your institution becomes less significant once you’ve earned your CPA. However, I can’t help but question whether this advice holds true in the job market, particularly in public Accounting.

Here are my two primary options:

1. Continue at WGU: This route is cost-effective and allows me to work within a familiar environment.
2. Transfer to a Traditional University: While potentially more expensive and new, this option might carry the weight of a traditional degree.

My primary concern lies in the perception of online universities, especially competency-based programs like WGU that employ pass/fail grading and offer a standard 3.0 GPA. I wonder if this could negatively impact my prospects with public accounting firms or limit my opportunities for entry-level positions.

I am reaching out to the community for insights, particularly from those who have navigated the hiring process in accounting, whether as candidates or hiring managers. Here are a few questions I’d love to explore:

• Do recruiters prioritize a candidate’s CPA over the university’s reputation?
• Has anyone successfully transitioned into Big 4 or mid-tier firms with a degree from WGU?
• Is the investment of time and money in a master’s program at a traditional university truly justified?

While the common belief persists that having a CPA outweighs the school’s name, I can’t shake the feeling that I may be jeopardizing my future career opportunities by continuing with WGU for my master’s.

I appreciate any insights or experiences you can share that might illuminate this crucial decision. Thank you in advance for your guidance!