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

Title: Navigating Graduate School Choices: The Impact of School Prestige in Public Accounting

As I approach the culmination of my bachelor’s degree in Accounting at Western Governors University (WGU), I find myself reflecting on the next steps in my academic and professional journey. To qualify for the CPA license, I need to complete 150 credit hours, prompting me to consider various master’s program options. However, I can’t help but feel conflicted about whether the prestige of the institution matters when pursuing a career in public Accounting.

In my research, I frequently encounter the belief that once you obtain your CPA, the name of your school becomes less significant. Nonetheless, I find myself doubting this notion. I am currently weighing two distinct paths:

1. Continue at WGU for my master’s degree: This option is budget-friendly and allows me to remain in a familiar environment.
2. Transfer to a traditional state school or local university: This might enhance my formal education experience, albeit at a higher financial cost and additional time commitment.

One concern that looms large for me is the perceived stigma surrounding online education, especially with competency-based programs like WGU that employ pass/fail grading and typically result in a standardized GPA. I’m anxious that this might impact my prospects with public Accounting firms or limit my chances of securing desirable entry-level positions.

I would greatly appreciate insights from individuals who have navigated the hiring landscape—especially those who have served as candidates or hiring managers in the public accounting realm. Specifically:

• How do recruiters view educational backgrounds after a CPA has been achieved?
• Can someone share their experiences breaking into Big 4 or mid-tier firms with a WGU background?
• Is the investment of time and money in a prestigious, traditional program worth it for a master’s degree?

While the prevailing wisdom suggests that holding a CPA outweighs school reputation, I cannot ignore the lingering concern that opting to stay at WGU for graduate studies might limit my career opportunities. I am eager to hear from those who have faced similar dilemmas and can provide perspective based on their experiences.

Thank you in advance for any advice or insights you can share!