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Is it possible to go into the accounting world with just a bachelors in accounting?
I want to continue in accounting but I hear from many that I need a masters to get opportunities. However, it's really expensive for me to do. Is it still possible to get into big corporates and governmental accounting with just a bachelors?
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10 answers
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Tammy!
Good question! Yes, it is absolutely possible to enter the accounting world with just a bachelor’s in accounting—many people do! While a master’s degree can help with career advancement, it’s not required for landing good opportunities. Here’s how you can maximize your options with just a bachelor’s:
1. Get an Entry-Level Accounting Job
Many companies, including big corporations and government agencies, hire candidates with a bachelor’s degree for roles like:
-Staff Accountant
-Accounts Payable/Receivable Clerk
-Financial Analyst
- Tax Accountant
- Auditor (Internal or External)
Government jobs (like working for the IRS, state accounting offices, or federal agencies) also often require only a bachelor's to start.
2. Earn Certifications Instead of a Master’s
A master’s degree isn’t the only way to advance—certifications are often more valuable. Consider:
- CPA (Certified Public Accountant) – Great for corporate and government accounting (though it requires 150 credit hours, which you might already have or can earn affordably).
- CMA (Certified Management Accountant) – If you want to work in corporate finance or management accounting.
- CIA (Certified Internal Auditor) – Perfect if you want to work in auditing.
- CFE (Certified Fraud Examiner) – Useful for forensic accounting and fraud prevention.
3. Gain Experience Through Internships & Networking
Since you won’t have a master’s, work experience and connections will help you stand out. Try:
- Internships or part-time accounting roles while in school.
- Networking on LinkedIn and attending accounting events.
- Applying for government accounting programs (many have training for recent grads).
4. Consider Corporate & Government Accounting Programs
Many big companies (like Deloitte, PwC, and EY) and government agencies have entry-level accounting roles that don’t require a master’s. You can get in and move up over time.
A master’s is NOT required to have a great accounting career. A CPA or CMA can be just as valuable, if not more. Get experience, consider certifications, and apply smartly—you can absolutely work for big corporations and government agencies with just a bachelor’s!
Best wishes!
Good question! Yes, it is absolutely possible to enter the accounting world with just a bachelor’s in accounting—many people do! While a master’s degree can help with career advancement, it’s not required for landing good opportunities. Here’s how you can maximize your options with just a bachelor’s:
1. Get an Entry-Level Accounting Job
Many companies, including big corporations and government agencies, hire candidates with a bachelor’s degree for roles like:
-Staff Accountant
-Accounts Payable/Receivable Clerk
-Financial Analyst
- Tax Accountant
- Auditor (Internal or External)
Government jobs (like working for the IRS, state accounting offices, or federal agencies) also often require only a bachelor's to start.
2. Earn Certifications Instead of a Master’s
A master’s degree isn’t the only way to advance—certifications are often more valuable. Consider:
- CPA (Certified Public Accountant) – Great for corporate and government accounting (though it requires 150 credit hours, which you might already have or can earn affordably).
- CMA (Certified Management Accountant) – If you want to work in corporate finance or management accounting.
- CIA (Certified Internal Auditor) – Perfect if you want to work in auditing.
- CFE (Certified Fraud Examiner) – Useful for forensic accounting and fraud prevention.
3. Gain Experience Through Internships & Networking
Since you won’t have a master’s, work experience and connections will help you stand out. Try:
- Internships or part-time accounting roles while in school.
- Networking on LinkedIn and attending accounting events.
- Applying for government accounting programs (many have training for recent grads).
4. Consider Corporate & Government Accounting Programs
Many big companies (like Deloitte, PwC, and EY) and government agencies have entry-level accounting roles that don’t require a master’s. You can get in and move up over time.
A master’s is NOT required to have a great accounting career. A CPA or CMA can be just as valuable, if not more. Get experience, consider certifications, and apply smartly—you can absolutely work for big corporations and government agencies with just a bachelor’s!
Best wishes!
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Tammy,
Absolutely, you can get into accounting with just a bachelor’s! Tons of people do it, and those who say you must have a master’s probably also believe you need a golden calculator to do the job. Spoiler: You don’t.
Other proffesionals have already dropped some top-tier wisdom—certifications like CPA, CMA, or CIA can be just as valuable (sometimes more) than a master's. Experience? Even better. Internships, networking, and starting in entry-level roles will open doors. Plus, some companies might even pay for your certifications (because they like smart investments).
So I say, Get an internship or entry-level job and own it.
Earn a CPA or CMA if you want to boost your career faster.
Network—because sometimes it’s not what you know, but who.
Be confident. The only thing standing between you and success is a little Excel wizardry and caffeine.
So yes, the accounting world is totally possible without a master's. Now go forth and crunch those numbers like a pro Tammy, I belive in you!☺️🤗
Absolutely, you can get into accounting with just a bachelor’s! Tons of people do it, and those who say you must have a master’s probably also believe you need a golden calculator to do the job. Spoiler: You don’t.
Other proffesionals have already dropped some top-tier wisdom—certifications like CPA, CMA, or CIA can be just as valuable (sometimes more) than a master's. Experience? Even better. Internships, networking, and starting in entry-level roles will open doors. Plus, some companies might even pay for your certifications (because they like smart investments).
So I say, Get an internship or entry-level job and own it.
Earn a CPA or CMA if you want to boost your career faster.
Network—because sometimes it’s not what you know, but who.
Be confident. The only thing standing between you and success is a little Excel wizardry and caffeine.
So yes, the accounting world is totally possible without a master's. Now go forth and crunch those numbers like a pro Tammy, I belive in you!☺️🤗
Updated
Jerry’s Answer
Levi's answer is what you need to start with as he's in the field. Your other answers are also excellent and I would take notes on those as well.
And everyone is on your side.
I will not go through the same answers again. There are a few other things you can do and end up being where you want to be.
First. Education. In your part of the world I would think there are community colleges where you can take the first two years of a college/university degree. You take the "basics", meaning the basic courses required by most colleges/universities. And the cost of attending is normally a fraction of the cost at a four year institution. Yet your work will be accepted and you would start then at a college/university as a junior and on you go to your degree in accounting. And if you perform at a high standard you may well be able to apply to a graduate school under scholarship and/or graduate teaching assistant. But you would have to do some research on that.
In addition, I would recommend developing a resume. Once done, all one has to do is update it. Along with the basic facts about yourself it should include education beginning perhaps at middle school. List courses you found most interesting and why. Extracurriculars. Sports. Volunteer work. Hobbies. Allow the reader to see you as a person. At the end write a statement about your goals in education and in life.
Obtain at least three general letters of recommendation. Teachers. Others at your high school if possible. If you have volunteered, ask staff to write you a general letter. So much the better,
The more others see you as an individual with goals and positive personal qualities the better off you are.
Now is the time to work on all of this. Then ten years from now you can look back and know it was all worth it.
And everyone is on your side.
I will not go through the same answers again. There are a few other things you can do and end up being where you want to be.
First. Education. In your part of the world I would think there are community colleges where you can take the first two years of a college/university degree. You take the "basics", meaning the basic courses required by most colleges/universities. And the cost of attending is normally a fraction of the cost at a four year institution. Yet your work will be accepted and you would start then at a college/university as a junior and on you go to your degree in accounting. And if you perform at a high standard you may well be able to apply to a graduate school under scholarship and/or graduate teaching assistant. But you would have to do some research on that.
In addition, I would recommend developing a resume. Once done, all one has to do is update it. Along with the basic facts about yourself it should include education beginning perhaps at middle school. List courses you found most interesting and why. Extracurriculars. Sports. Volunteer work. Hobbies. Allow the reader to see you as a person. At the end write a statement about your goals in education and in life.
Obtain at least three general letters of recommendation. Teachers. Others at your high school if possible. If you have volunteered, ask staff to write you a general letter. So much the better,
The more others see you as an individual with goals and positive personal qualities the better off you are.
Now is the time to work on all of this. Then ten years from now you can look back and know it was all worth it.
Updated
C’s Answer
Yeah, you can definitely get into the accounting world with just a bachelor's degree! Plenty of people start their careers in corporate or governmental accounting without a master's. While a master's can help with career advancement or meeting CPA credit requirements, it’s not a strict necessity for entry-level jobs.
A lot depends on your goals. If you’re aiming for a CPA, check your state’s credit hour requirements—some require 150 hours, which a master’s can help with, but you can also get there through extra undergrad credits or certifications. If you’re more into corporate accounting, many companies hire bachelor’s grads for roles like staff accountant, financial analyst, or internal auditor. Government jobs, like working for the IRS or state agencies, also don’t typically require a master’s.
If cost is a concern, gaining work experience first might be the best move. You can always pursue a master’s later if it feels necessary, and some employers even help pay for it. Networking, internships, and certifications like the CPA (if relevant) or CMA can also boost your chances at bigger firms. So yeah, you’ve got options!
A lot depends on your goals. If you’re aiming for a CPA, check your state’s credit hour requirements—some require 150 hours, which a master’s can help with, but you can also get there through extra undergrad credits or certifications. If you’re more into corporate accounting, many companies hire bachelor’s grads for roles like staff accountant, financial analyst, or internal auditor. Government jobs, like working for the IRS or state agencies, also don’t typically require a master’s.
If cost is a concern, gaining work experience first might be the best move. You can always pursue a master’s later if it feels necessary, and some employers even help pay for it. Networking, internships, and certifications like the CPA (if relevant) or CMA can also boost your chances at bigger firms. So yeah, you’ve got options!
Updated
Bright’s Answer
Hey there. It is highly possible. There are so many accelerated programs. I will give you some post and their source.
Yes, you can pursue a career in accounting with just a bachelor's degree. Many entry-level positions in both corporate and governmental accounting require only a bachelor's degree. For example, roles such as accounting clerk, accounts payable specialist, and staff accountant are accessible with a bachelor's degree.
INDEED.COM
While a master's degree can enhance your qualifications and may be preferred for certain advanced positions, it is not a mandatory requirement for many accounting roles. In fact, some organizations value practical experience and may offer on-the-job training to compensate for the lack of an advanced degree.
Additionally, recent discussions in the accounting profession suggest a shift towards alternative pathways to licensure and career advancement. For instance, some states are considering allowing candidates to substitute work experience for the additional year of education traditionally required for CPA licensure.
WSJ.COM
Therefore, with a bachelor's degree in accounting, you can still access a wide range of career opportunities in both corporate and governmental sectors. Focusing on gaining relevant experience, obtaining necessary certifications, and continuously developing your skills can significantly enhance your career prospects.
Yes, you can pursue a career in accounting with just a bachelor's degree. Many entry-level positions in both corporate and governmental accounting require only a bachelor's degree. For example, roles such as accounting clerk, accounts payable specialist, and staff accountant are accessible with a bachelor's degree.
INDEED.COM
While a master's degree can enhance your qualifications and may be preferred for certain advanced positions, it is not a mandatory requirement for many accounting roles. In fact, some organizations value practical experience and may offer on-the-job training to compensate for the lack of an advanced degree.
Additionally, recent discussions in the accounting profession suggest a shift towards alternative pathways to licensure and career advancement. For instance, some states are considering allowing candidates to substitute work experience for the additional year of education traditionally required for CPA licensure.
WSJ.COM
Therefore, with a bachelor's degree in accounting, you can still access a wide range of career opportunities in both corporate and governmental sectors. Focusing on gaining relevant experience, obtaining necessary certifications, and continuously developing your skills can significantly enhance your career prospects.
Updated
Levi’s Answer
Hi Tammy!
This is a great question and I remember this topic when I was in college. You can definitely get opportunities without a masters degree in accounting. While these opportunities do exist, they may not be as plentify, but that is not to say they don't exist. I would say getting something else with your bachelor's degree (CPA or other certifications) goes a long way. I personally did not get a master's degree and pursued another major along with my accounting degree as I was trying to get my CPA because getting a master's was expensive at the time. Price of education can definitely be a pain point at times, but it can be very fruitful in the long run and pay dividends if you stick in the accounting field with those certifications. Some companies may even pay for these certifications for you, especially the CPA exams!
This is a great question and I remember this topic when I was in college. You can definitely get opportunities without a masters degree in accounting. While these opportunities do exist, they may not be as plentify, but that is not to say they don't exist. I would say getting something else with your bachelor's degree (CPA or other certifications) goes a long way. I personally did not get a master's degree and pursued another major along with my accounting degree as I was trying to get my CPA because getting a master's was expensive at the time. Price of education can definitely be a pain point at times, but it can be very fruitful in the long run and pay dividends if you stick in the accounting field with those certifications. Some companies may even pay for these certifications for you, especially the CPA exams!
Updated
Clare’s Answer
Hi Tammy!
Yes, you can build a successful career in accounting with just a bachelor’s degree. Many accountants start their careers with a bachelor's and gain valuable experience that helps them advance over time.
Certifications and experience are two main ways you can enhance your career without a masters. Internships are a great way to gain experience, and as you progress in your career, experience will be one of the biggest factors in helping you excel in your career.
If you’re looking to further enhance your knowledge without pursuing a master’s degree, consider professional certifications. The CPA (Certified Public Accountant) designation is one of the most recognized credentials in accounting. While the 150-credit hour requirement leads some professionals to pursue a master’s degree, it’s not the only path, and you can meet this requirement through additional undergraduate coursework or other educational options.
While a master’s degree can be useful for certain career paths, it’s not a requirement for success in accounting. Many professionals build great careers through a combination of work experience, networking, and professional certifications. The key is to continuously develop your skills and stay up to date with industry trends.
Best of luck in your career!
Yes, you can build a successful career in accounting with just a bachelor’s degree. Many accountants start their careers with a bachelor's and gain valuable experience that helps them advance over time.
Certifications and experience are two main ways you can enhance your career without a masters. Internships are a great way to gain experience, and as you progress in your career, experience will be one of the biggest factors in helping you excel in your career.
If you’re looking to further enhance your knowledge without pursuing a master’s degree, consider professional certifications. The CPA (Certified Public Accountant) designation is one of the most recognized credentials in accounting. While the 150-credit hour requirement leads some professionals to pursue a master’s degree, it’s not the only path, and you can meet this requirement through additional undergraduate coursework or other educational options.
While a master’s degree can be useful for certain career paths, it’s not a requirement for success in accounting. Many professionals build great careers through a combination of work experience, networking, and professional certifications. The key is to continuously develop your skills and stay up to date with industry trends.
Best of luck in your career!
Updated
Nolan’s Answer
Hi Tammy!
As others have said, a masters is definitely not required. It is often a path chosen to reach the 150 credit requirement for the CPA exam, which leads to confusion that it is needed. In fact, many states are considering removing this requirement so keep an eye on the news if the state you're in may is thinking about this change.
I work in big 4 and do not personally have a masters degree and it has not had any implications. Instead, I opted to do a double major with business analytics to help reach the 150 credit requirement. I felt this decision has set me up to be more well rounded in my career.
Good luck and remember, everyone's path is different and what's best for you might not be the norm!
As others have said, a masters is definitely not required. It is often a path chosen to reach the 150 credit requirement for the CPA exam, which leads to confusion that it is needed. In fact, many states are considering removing this requirement so keep an eye on the news if the state you're in may is thinking about this change.
I work in big 4 and do not personally have a masters degree and it has not had any implications. Instead, I opted to do a double major with business analytics to help reach the 150 credit requirement. I felt this decision has set me up to be more well rounded in my career.
Good luck and remember, everyone's path is different and what's best for you might not be the norm!
Updated
Reckelton’s Answer
Yes, it is absolutely possible to enter the accounting world with just a **bachelor’s degree in accounting**. Many professionals successfully begin their careers in accounting roles within corporate settings, government agencies, or non-profit organizations with only an undergraduate degree. Entry-level positions such as **staff accountant**, **accounts payable/receivable specialist**, **tax associate**, or **financial analyst** typically require a bachelor's and offer valuable experience to build your skills and professional network.
While some people pursue a **master’s degree** to deepen their expertise or meet educational requirements for certifications like the **CPA (Certified Public Accountant)**, it’s not a necessity for everyone. Many employers, including large corporations and government entities, prioritize practical experience, relevant skills, and certifications over advanced degrees.
If a master's program feels financially out of reach, another effective path is to pursue professional certifications. Earning a **CPA**, **CMA (Certified Management Accountant)**, or **CIA (Certified Internal Auditor)** can significantly enhance your career prospects and open doors to higher-level roles—often carrying more weight than a master’s degree in the accounting field.
Overall, your bachelor’s degree, combined with practical experience and possibly a professional certification, can definitely help you land opportunities in **big corporates** and **governmental accounting** without the need for an expensive master's degree. Focus on gaining hands-on experience through internships or entry-level roles, and continue to grow your network and skills to advance your career.
While some people pursue a **master’s degree** to deepen their expertise or meet educational requirements for certifications like the **CPA (Certified Public Accountant)**, it’s not a necessity for everyone. Many employers, including large corporations and government entities, prioritize practical experience, relevant skills, and certifications over advanced degrees.
If a master's program feels financially out of reach, another effective path is to pursue professional certifications. Earning a **CPA**, **CMA (Certified Management Accountant)**, or **CIA (Certified Internal Auditor)** can significantly enhance your career prospects and open doors to higher-level roles—often carrying more weight than a master’s degree in the accounting field.
Overall, your bachelor’s degree, combined with practical experience and possibly a professional certification, can definitely help you land opportunities in **big corporates** and **governmental accounting** without the need for an expensive master's degree. Focus on gaining hands-on experience through internships or entry-level roles, and continue to grow your network and skills to advance your career.
Updated
Jason’s Answer
Hi Tammy,
Yes, it is absolutely possible to enter the accounting field in the U.S. with just a bachelor's degree in accounting. Many entry-level positions, including those at Big 4 firms (Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG), hire graduates directly from college, especially if they have strong academic performance, relevant internships, and excellent interview skills.
For example, I was able to secure an offer at a Big 4 firm right after graduating because I focused on my interview preparation and maintained a good GPA. During my interviews, I emphasized my problem-solving skills, teamwork experiences, and technical accounting knowledge. By thoroughly researching the firm’s culture and preparing for behavioral and technical questions, I demonstrated my fit for the role, which helped me land the offer.
Yes, it is absolutely possible to enter the accounting field in the U.S. with just a bachelor's degree in accounting. Many entry-level positions, including those at Big 4 firms (Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG), hire graduates directly from college, especially if they have strong academic performance, relevant internships, and excellent interview skills.
For example, I was able to secure an offer at a Big 4 firm right after graduating because I focused on my interview preparation and maintained a good GPA. During my interviews, I emphasized my problem-solving skills, teamwork experiences, and technical accounting knowledge. By thoroughly researching the firm’s culture and preparing for behavioral and technical questions, I demonstrated my fit for the role, which helped me land the offer.