You should be aware of the entrance criteria for an accounting program before you even start to fill out the application for admission. When you are entering the accounting field, getting a quality formal education is critical. Choosing to earn the wrong degree from an institution that is not actually recognized by credentialing agencies or by employers could leave you between a rock and a hard place. Accredited programs tend to be much more competitive as more and more students choose to major in accounting. Since the competition is high, schools must be much more selective as they are reviewing applications. If you are committed to earning an accounting degree, here are some of the entrance requirements that you should be aware of.
The Minimum Criteria for Entry Into a Competitive Undergraduate Program
The demand for accounting graduates has reached an all-time high. With accounting firms hiring more candidates with only a bachelor’s degree, the field has become a very popular major. Applications into undergraduate accounting programs are on the rise, and only a portion of the applicants will actually gain entry when the program is in-demand. This is why you must meet minimum criteria to get into the best programs, but meeting these requirements will not guarantee entry. Here are the minimum requirements used by most 4-year degree programs:
- Completion of prerequisite programs in English and mathematics
- An acceptable prerequisite Grade Point Average (typically around 3.0)
- Acceptable academic record in prior institutions or in high school
- Declaration of a major by the time 60 credits are completed
The Entry Requirements for a Majority of Graduate Accounting Programs
In the past, you may have been able to earn your CPA with only your Bachelor’s degree. Now, the requirements are much more strict and often lead you down the path to pursue a graduate degree. A Master of Accountancy degree will help you satisfy the strict CPA requirements by giving you the 150 credit hours that you need and the courses in business and accounting that you must have.
To gain entry into a MAcc, you must meet a longer set of criteria because the coursework is so advanced. Not only will your performance while you were in school as an undergrad be reviewed, but so will your professional experience. Here are some of the common requirements to earn your Master’s degree majoring in Accounting:
- A Bachelor’s degree majoring in Accounting from an institution accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business or another agency
- Completion of foundation courses in business and accounting for students who did not major in accounting
- Completion of a Test of English as a Foreign Language for international students
- Completion of a Graduate Record Examination (GRE) with an acceptable score
- Letters of Recommendation
- An application essay answering the prompt given
An accounting degree can take you down many different paths in the world of business. From careers in financial advising to careers in taxation, there are endless opportunities once you complete your formal training. It is critical that you do your homework on degree programs before you spend the time committed to studies. By researching the entrance criteria of each reputable accounting program in your area, you can plan ahead of time to avoid hiccups and delays.
