Navigating Graduate School Decisions: Does Prestige Matter for Accounting Careers?

As I approach graduation with my bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Western Governors University (WGU), I find myself at a crossroads. To qualify for the CPA, I need to obtain 150 credit hours, and I’ve been immersing myself in discussions about the significance of school prestige in the field of public Accounting. Conventional wisdom suggests that once you have your CPA, the name on your degree becomes less important. However, I can’t shake the feeling of uncertainty about this advice.

I’m currently evaluating two options for my master’s degree:

1. Continue at WGU: This path would be more affordable and familiar, given that I’ve already spent years at this institution.
2. Transfer to a Traditional University: Enrolling in a local state university or a more traditional program would undoubtedly be more recognized in some circles.

My primary worry centers around the lingering stigma many hold against online degrees, particularly those from competency-based programs like WGU, which employs a pass/fail grading system and generally assigns a GPA of 3.0. I can’t help but wonder if this could negatively impact my chances when applying to public accounting firms or when vying for desirable entry-level positions.

To help navigate this dilemma, I’d like to hear from those who have experienced the hiring process firsthand, either as candidates or as hiring managers. Here are a few questions I have:

• Do Recruiters Look Beyond the Institution? Once you hold a CPA, does the name of your school carry less weight in the eyes of recruiters?
• Have Others Succeeded from WGU? Are there individuals who have successfully secured positions in Big 4 or mid-tier accounting firms with a degree from WGU?
• Is a Traditional Master’s Worth It? Considering the additional costs and time, is pursuing a master’s from a more conventional program a strategic move that pays off in the long run?

While the prevailing notion is that obtaining the CPA outweighs the significance of school prestige, I still worry that opting to stay with WGU might limit my opportunities in the future. I would greatly appreciate any insights from those who have faced similar decisions in their academic or professional journeys. Thank you in advance for your thoughts!