Navigating the Grad School Dilemma: The Impact of School Prestige on Public Accounting Careers

As I approach graduation from Western Governors University with my bachelor’s degree in Accounting, I’ve found myself at a crossroads. To sit for the CPA exam, I need to achieve 150 credit hours, and I’m weighing my options for graduate school. This decision is crucial, and I’ve been absorbing advice from various forums—particularly the notion that school prestige may not hold much weight after obtaining your CPA. However, I’m beginning to question that consensus.

Here are the two paths I’m considering:

1. Continue at WGU for my Master’s: This option is not only cost-effective but also familiar, as I’ve been navigating WGU’s unique competency-based learning model.

2. Transfer to a Traditional University: This would entail enrolling in a local state program, which might enhance my resume but comes with additional time and financial commitment.

My apprehension stems from the persistent stigma surrounding online education, specifically regarding programs like WGU, which utilize a pass/fail grading system and often yield a standardized GPA of 3.0. This makes me wonder: Will potential employers in public Accounting perceive my education as inferior, potentially hindering my chances at desirable positions?

To those who have traversed the hiring landscape—whether as candidates or as hiring managers—I’d appreciate your insights on the following:

• Do recruiters prioritize the institution’s name once candidates possess a CPA?
• Are there success stories of individuals landing positions at Big 4 or mid-tier firms with a WGU degree?
• Is the investment of time and money in a traditional master’s program justified?

While the commonly accepted belief suggests that possessing a CPA outweighs school prestige, I can’t shake the notion that remaining at WGU for my graduate studies might restrict my career prospects. I’m eager to gather perspectives from others who have faced similar dilemmas and hear how they navigated their choices.

Thank you in advance for your valuable insights as I contemplate this important decision!