For professionals looking to advance their careers in business or accounting, a graduate degree can open new doors. An MBA in accounting provides leadership training and business insight, preparing students for roles in financial management, strategy and operations. In contrast, a Master of Accountancy (MAcc) focuses on building technical skills and preparing students for CPA certification.
Eastern Washington University offers accredited and flexible online options through its School of Business. Students can pursue the online MBA in Business Administration with an Accounting Concentration, which is designed to support different professional goals. This graduate degree is part of EWU’s online MBA programs and reflects the high standards expected from top business schools.
This guide compares the MBA and MAcc across key areas: curriculum, admission requirements, career outcomes and program costs. Whether you’re focused on managerial accounting or CPA preparation, this article will help you determine which accounting program is the best fit for your career goals.
MBA in Accounting vs. MAcc: Key Differences |
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| Category | MBA in Accounting | Master of Accountancy (MAcc) |
| Focus & skills | Business leadership, strategy, and cross-functional decision-making | Technical accounting depth, CPA exam preparation, auditing & taxation expertise |
| Ideal candidates | Professionals in business or operations; future managers, consultants | Accounting grads or CPA-track professionals seeking specialized roles |
| Career outcomes | Financial Analyst, Business Consultant, Accounting Manager | CPA, Auditor, Forensic Accountant |
| Program duration | One to three years | 12–18 months |
What is an MBA in Accounting?
An MBA in accounting online is a graduate business degree that blends accounting principles with leadership, financial strategy and data analysis. This Master of Business Administration is well-suited for professionals with a bachelor’s degree who are pursuing roles in management, operations or healthcare.
The online MBA in Business Administration with an Accounting Concentration from Eastern Washington University includes coursework in capital budgeting, information technology and data analysis. This degree supports broad career growth by preparing graduates to lead teams and make strategic business decisions.
What is a Master of Accountancy (MAcc)?
A Master of Accountancy (MAcc) is a focused graduate program that prepares students for CPA licensure and advanced roles in the accounting field. It builds on foundational skills to cover in-depth topics such as forensic accounting, auditing and taxation.
MAcc programs also include advanced coursework in financial reporting and analysis, which serve as prerequisites for the CPA exam. Designed for those with a bachelor’s degree in accounting or business, the MAcc is ideal for individuals who want to become certified public accountants or deepen their technical expertise. Students in this program complete specialized accounting courses and gain experience analyzing financial statements to meet the demands of today’s accounting profession.
MBA vs. MAcc: Key Differences at a Glance
The choice between an MBA vs. an MAcc depends on your career goals and preferred skill set. An MBA in accounting emphasizes leadership, business strategy and organizational decision-making, which is ideal for those pursuing roles in management or consulting. In contrast, a Master’s in Accounting develops technical expertise, preparing students for CPA certification and specialized accounting roles.
MBA coursework typically includes subjects like business analytics, operations management and organizational behavior. A MAcc program, on the other hand, focuses on auditing, taxation, ethics and forensic accounting. Both graduate programs provide a strong foundation, but the depth of accounting concentration varies.
Career paths also diverge. MBA graduates often work in finance, strategy or consulting, while MAcc graduates are more likely to join CPA firms or specialize in auditing and accounting investigations. In terms of duration, MBA programs typically take one to three years, while MAcc programs range from 12-18 months.
Curriculum Comparison: What You’ll Study
While the MBA and MAcc take different approaches, they share key core courses in areas such as business ethics, analytics and accounting standards. These foundational subjects help students build essential skills for leadership and financial decision-making.
The MBA curriculum often includes classes in marketing management, entrepreneurship and strategic leadership, reflecting its focus on broader business functions. In contrast, the MAcc program dives deep into accounting with specialized coursework in auditing, taxation and valuation. Students in both programs can personalize their learning with targeted elective options that align with their interests and career plans.
Experiential learning is a core element of both degrees. A capstone or practicum gives students the opportunity to apply classroom concepts to real-world scenarios. At Eastern Washington University, students are prepared for modern business decisions in a data-driven environment.
Admission Requirements and Application Tips
Applicants to either program typically need a bachelor’s degree, a minimum GPA, official transcripts and letters of recommendation. These are standard admission requirements across most graduate-level business and accounting programs.
The application process also includes submitting a resume, a completed application form and an application fee. Strong work experience can enhance an applicant’s profile, particularly for MBA candidates pursuing leadership roles. Eastern Washington University recognizes this by offering GMAT waivers to qualified applicants who meet specific GPA or professional background requirements. Understanding the full admissions process and preparing ahead by gathering test scores (if required) and planning for enrollment timelines can help applicants stay organized and competitive.
Career Outcomes and Salary Potential
Graduates of an MBA program often pursue roles such as financial analyst, operations manager or business consultant. These positions can span various industries, including healthcare, finance and corporate strategy. Leadership-focused careers like accounting manager or international business management roles also emerge from MBA pathways. In contrast, MAcc graduates typically move into specialized accounting roles such as public accountant, auditor or certified public accountant track positions that emphasize financial reporting and compliance.
Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that employment of accountants and auditors is projected to grow about 5% through 2034, which is faster than the average for all occupations, indicating strong job growth for accounting professionals. The median annual wage for accountants and auditors was about $81,680 in May 2024. Meanwhile, careers in related business and financial fields, such as management analysis or corporate finance, often exceed that figure, reflecting broad opportunities for MBA graduates.
Leadership and financial management careers with an MBA may offer higher average earnings compared with some accounting roles. Many graduates with an MBA in accounting report median earnings in the range of about $90,000 or more, while MAcc graduates average around the median for accountants at $83,000. Earnings vary with industry, experience, location and role.
Financial Aid and Program Costs
Tuition and fees for graduate degrees vary widely depending on the number of credit hours, school type and whether students enroll full-time or part-time. Prospective students should review the cost of attendance early in the application process to understand the total investment required.
Many schools, including programs in online MBA programs, offer financial support through financial aid, scholarships, employer reimbursement plans or federal loans to help manage expenses. Applicants should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and explore institutional aid opportunities.
Flexible start dates and part‑time enrollment options are also available, allowing working professionals to continue their careers while pursuing graduate credentials. These options make it easier to balance work, education and financial planning throughout the duration of the degree program.
Why Choose Eastern Washington University for Your Accounting Graduate Degree?
Eastern Washington University offers accredited graduate programs through its School of Business that combine academic rigor with affordability and convenience. The Eastern Washington University online MBA is designed for professionals seeking flexible, high-quality education with practical outcomes.
The university’s AACSB accreditation places it among the top business schools worldwide. Students benefit from multiple start date options and flexible enrollment paths that fit their schedules, especially for those balancing work and family responsibilities. With competitive tuition and fully online delivery, EWU’s accounting program is accessible without sacrificing quality.
Whether you want to advance in management or prepare for CPA certification, Eastern Washington University’s online MBA program provides clear pathways to your career goals. Request more information and explore your next step with EWU today.
Learn more about EWU’s online MBA in Business Administration with an Accounting Concentration.
FAQ
These common questions can help prospective students compare the MBA and MAcc, better understand admission requirements and plan ahead for graduate school and career advancement.
Is an MBA in accounting worth it?
Yes, an MBA in accounting offers a strong ROI for professionals targeting roles in business management, finance or operations. This degree combines accounting knowledge with leadership and financial management skills, making it ideal for those seeking advancement across various industries. Many graduates transition into strategic, cross-functional roles where an MBA in accounting becomes evident through salary growth and career flexibility.
Who earns more, a CPA or MBA?
In the debate of CPA vs. MBA, the answer depends on the career path. CPAs often advance in technical accounting and auditing roles, while MBAs frequently move into executive and strategy-focused positions. MBA graduates tend to earn more in senior-level or business leadership roles, whereas CPAs may specialize in valuation, financial planning or capital budgeting. Both offer high salary potential, but the best option depends on your career goals.
Do I need the GRE or GMAT for these programs?
Eastern Washington University offers a GMAT waiver to qualified applicants based on their GPA or relevant work experience. While GRE or GMAT scores are not required for all applicants, submitting them can improve chances for scholarships or strengthen a competitive application process. It’s important to review the specific GRE requirements and test scores policy during the admissions review.
