Have BA in History, want to go back for Accounting degree.

Discussion in 'General Distance Learning Discussions' started by WV2004, Feb 22, 2005.

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  1. WV2004

    WV2004 New Member

    For the last 3 or so weeks, I have really struggled with the decision as to whether or not to attempt to get an accounting degree.

    I have accumulated about 126 credits as a result of the history degree I earned in 2003. But the experience I have had the last 2 years has caused me to explore a different career option while I'm still young.

    Any advice as to which online program would be a potential best match in this situation ? Would CLEP also be worthwhile ?

    University of Northwestern Ohio looks interesting , and I'm trying to find out if Mountain State University is a possibility.

    Any adivce would be much appreicated,

    Anthony
     
  2. little fauss

    little fauss New Member

    You can go two directions: a second Bachelor's in Accounting or an MBA with an Accounting emphasis.

    Look at the USN elearning search too for online programs:

    http://www.usnews.com/usnews/edu/elearning/tools/elsearch.htm

    If I were you I'd look into online MBA programs and emphasize accounting with your electives since you already have a Bachelor's. There might be more utility in that degree than a second Bachelors in Accounting.

    There are many programs that offer MBAs online or via DL, such as: UMass, Indiana, Auburn, Florida, Nebraska, Colorado State, Drexel, Pace, Syracuse, Arizona State, Wisconsin-Whitewater, Texas A&M-Commerce, Arkansas-Little Rock, Oklahoma State, Purdue, Duke, Florida State.
     
    Last edited by a moderator: Feb 22, 2005
  3. gkillion

    gkillion New Member

    Do you plan to take the CPA exam? If so, check your state's education requirements. This may help narrow down your choices.
     
  4. deleonjose

    deleonjose New Member

    Florida Atlantic has a Master's in Forensic Accounting that will let you in with any type of Undergrad degree. You earn 27 accounting hours towards your CPA, which is more than enough in most states. they also have a Master's in accounting also with 27 accounting hours. FAU is RA and both programs are AACSB accredited. Both can be done entirely online also.
     
  5. From what I understand, most states require that you have 150 semester hours, which includes approximately 27 to 30 hours in accounting to sit for the CPA exam. I don't believe there is a specific requirement to have an accounting major or degree in business.

    I have a BS in Liberal Arts with a Concentration in Sociology through the Regents College, now known as Excelsior College. To complete the required accounting courses, I could either test out, or attend a combination of coursework in order to take the CPA exam. In my opinion, this could be done without enrolling in another Bachelor's or pursuing a Masters Degree in Business or Accounting.

    Check with this website to find out the requirements of your particular state. I wish you luck.

    http://www.cpapass.com/am_i_eligible.asp

    Sincerely,
     
  6. mrbean72

    mrbean72 New Member

    Accounting Designations

    For your education dollar, the best return on investment comes from enrolling in programs or courses that lead to an accounting designation. The CPA designation has already been mentioned and it is a great choice, but here are some other possibilities:

    Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
    - different from CPA in that it is more geared toward accounting and financial management within an organization, rather than the CPA which is primarily focused on public accounting firms

    http://www.imanet.org/ima/sec.asp?TRACKID=&CID=5&DID=5

    Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
    - this designation focuses on internal audit, specifically on how organizations can improve their financial controls and corporate governance

    http://www.theiia.org/?doc_id=3

    Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)
    - this designation concentrates on fraud detection and prevention

    http://www.cfenet.com/cfe/

    All of these designations are internationally respected and you can enrol in them with your present degree. As well, I would recommend talking to accounting professionals in your area to see if this career is for you and what job opportunities are available (relevant experience is required to earn any respected designation).

    The job prospects for accounting are very good right now. Sarbanes Oxley has forced many companies and accounting firms to hire more accountants to deal with the increased requirements for compliance (e.g. internal control certification). This, combined with other growth factors and historically low enrolment in accounting programs, means that demand outstrips supply (good for employees!).

    Best of luck with your accounting choice! It is a great profession!

    Michael Weedon, CA
     

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