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

Navigating the Graduate School Decision for Aspiring Accountants

As I approach the finish line of my bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Western Governors University (WGU), I find myself at a pivotal crossroads. To meet the 150 credit hour requirement for the CPA exam, I’m contemplating my next steps. While sifting through online forums, I’ve often encountered the assertion that the prestige of one’s educational institution fades in significance after earning a CPA license. However, I can’t help but question whether this perspective holds true.

I’m weighing two potential paths for my master’s degree:

1. Continuing at WGU – This option is cost-effective and familiar, allowing me to build on my current educational foundation.
2. Transferring to a Traditional State School – A more conventional route that may carry a different weight in the job market.

Despite the financial advantages of staying at WGU, I have lingering concerns about the perception surrounding online education. Specifically, I worry about the stigma that may sometimes accompany competency-based programs like mine, which utilize a pass/fail grading system and typically assign standard GPAs.

As I consider my future in public Accounting, I have a few pressing questions for those who have experience with this process—both as job seekers and as hiring professionals:

• Does the reputation of your school truly lose its importance once you have secured a CPA?
• Are there examples of individuals who successfully entered Big 4 or mid-tier firms with a degree from WGU?
• Is pursuing a master’s degree from a traditional institution genuinely worth the additional financial and temporal investment?

While the common narrative often suggests that the CPA credential trumps educational pedigree, I can’t shake the feeling that my choice of graduate school could potentially limit my opportunities. I would greatly appreciate feedback from anyone who has navigated a similar decision-making process.

Thank you in advance for your valuable insights! Your experiences could significantly influence my next steps on this journey.