Navigating Graduate School Choices: Do Prestige and Reputation Matter in Accounting?

As I approach graduation with a bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Western Governors University (WGU), I find myself at a crossroads in my academic journey. With the necessity of completing 150 credit hours to qualify for the CPA exam, I’ve been diving into discussions about the significance of school prestige when it comes to securing a role in public Accounting.

A recurring sentiment in various online forums suggests that once you’ve obtained your CPA, the reputation of your educational institution becomes less critical. However, I’m beginning to question this notion and consider my options carefully.

Weighing My Options

I currently have two possibilities laid out before me:

1. Continue at WGU for my master’s degree: This route is financially appealing and familiar, given my previous studies.

2. Transfer to a traditional state university: This option may come with higher costs and an unfamiliar environment, but it could offer a degree that some perceive as more prestigious.

My hesitation stems from the lingering stigma associated with online programs, particularly those with a competency-based approach like WGU. The unique grading system—pass/fail with an automatic 3.0 GPA—leaves me wondering if this might impact my employability with public accounting firms and impede my search for promising entry-level roles.

Seeking Insights from Industry Experience

I turn to the community for insights and experiences, especially from hiring professionals and fellow candidates:

• Do recruiters genuinely overlook the name of your institution once you’ve achieved your CPA certification?
• Have others from WGU successfully navigated their way into positions at Big 4 or mid-tier firms?
• Is the investment—both financial and temporal—justified in pursuing a master’s from a more established program?

Though I’ve heard the adage “CPA > school name,” I can’t help but feel that opting to remain at WGU for my graduate studies could limit my future opportunities.

Conclusion

I appreciate any thoughts or experiences shared by those who have faced similar dilemmas. Your guidance could provide crucial clarity as I navigate this significant decision in my quest for a thriving career in accounting. Thank you in advance for your valuable input!