According to TopAccountingDegrees.org, “An accountant manager is responsible for developing and then maintaining the accounting systems and procedures that accountants use to collect, analyze, and verify an organization’s financial data.” In other words, if you are interested in working with numbers and would prefer to take on a leadership role within a company, accounting management might be the job for you.
One of the best ways to set yourself apart from the competition is to obtain an MBA in accounting. For the working professional, an online MBA program is one of the best ways to reach this goal.
An MBA Can Keep You Competitive
Management positions in any field are typically much more competitive than lower level positions, and accounting is no exception.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for accountants shows 11 percent growth in the next eight years, but for managers that number drops to 7 percent. Given this lower rate of growth in accounting management, you can gain an edge over your competition by obtaining an MBA in accounting.
Work experience also has a big impact on your competitiveness in the field of accounting management, so continuing to work while pursuing an MBA in accounting is one of the best uses of your time in terms of building your resume. According to PayScale, “For the first five to ten years in this position, pay increases sharply.”
An MBA in accounting can also provide great preparation for the CPA licensing exam. According to Best Accounting Schools, “Many states require you to complete a number of upper level courses … before you’re allowed to take this exam. You won’t get all of these necessary classes with an undergraduate degree, but you will have access to these and all other necessary courses to ensure that you have met all of the requirements needed to take the CPA licensing exam with confidence when you’ve completed your MBA program.”
Building Real-World Skills
An MBA in accounting can give students the opportunity to build on their real-world accounting and managerial skills. According to AccountingPrincipals.com, “If you expect your employees to develop their technology skills, expand their business knowledge, and get certifications, you should lead by example.” Furthering your education not only displays a willingness to grow to those above you, but also sets an example for those below you.
As Best Accounting Schools points out, one of the benefits of getting an MBA in accounting is the management training you will undergo as part of the coursework. “Those studying for their MBA with a specific focus on accounting will be much better prepared to obtain a management position than those who hold only an undergraduate degree.”
If you are interested in a career in accounting management, an MBA in accounting, along with the proper work experience, can help prepare you for the competitive market in that field. You will have access to management training that you wouldn’t as an undergraduate, as well as many other skills that can set you apart from the competition.
Learn more about Fitchburg State University’s online MBA in Accounting program.
Sources:
TopAccountingDegrees.org: What Is an Accountant Manager?
PayScale: Accounting Manager Salary
