Re-imagine your future with a master’s in accounting for non-accounting majors

Your individual background, aptitude and interests will shape how you learn. As a STEM major, accounting is rooted in rigorous mathematical thinking and quantitative, problem-solving. The difficulty of earning a master’s in accounting without an accounting undergraduate degree can be subjective, so we can’t say for sure how difficult it will be for you. What we can tell you is what it takes to be successful.

Students who do well typically possess strong analytical skills, and are thorough, detail-oriented, and highly organized. While advanced math skills aren’t required, a solid foundation in math and a penchant for numbers and calculations is essential. Successful students also are good at problem-solving and critical thinking, which helps them identify and resolve financial problems.

Ultimately, the difficulty of a program is influenced by the effort and dedication put forth by the student. Individuals who consistently put in the work, manage their time well, seek help when they need it, and maintain a positive attitude are the most successful in this program.

Remember, at Franklin, you’re not alone in your journey to earn your master’s in accounting even if you didn’t earn an accounting undergraduate. Franklin faculty and staff are here to offer academic advice from start-to-finish.

Franklin's pathway to an accounting master’s for non-majors is specifically designed for busy, working adults. You can expect to complete this accounting foundations bridge program in 5 terms, preparing you to enroll in the M.S. in Accounting degree program, which can be completed in 17 months. With that in mind, you could finish your M.S. in Accounting – including corequisites – in about 2-1/2 years (31 months).

The good news is that your next career move is up to you. Many entry-level accounting positions require little to no experience, and employers often value other qualifications, such as education, the ability to sit for the CPA exam, and potential for growth. If you want to gain experience while working toward your degree, you may want to consider interning with an accounting firm or volunteering with our Volunteer Tax Assistance Program. 

Absolutely! As part of our mission to provide high-quality educational experiences that support adult learning within the context of doing, we encourage student internships. Not only is an internship a great way to gain hands-on experience, it allows you to explore your career options, build a professional network, and enhance your resume. 

During your internship, you’ll learn professional skills, such as communication, leadership, and teamwork. Plus, internships can help increase your job prospects and provide you with a competitive edge in the job market. Ask an advisor and/or program chair for more information and learn more about internships, apprenticeships, co-ops and gig experiences here.

Franklin University’s M.S. in Accounting degree provides you with a comprehensive and in-depth accounting education that you often won’t receive from a certification program. An M.S. in Accounting degree adds professional credibility that can open doors to new employers or to more senior or specialized roles within your current organization. Earning your M.S. in Accounting degree can lead to long-term earning potential, too, since individuals with higher levels of education tend to have higher lifetime earnings potential. Lastly, our master’s in accounting for non-majors program can provide you with unique networking opportunities with professors, fellow students, and Franklin alumni – all of which can help you build lasting professional relationships that are invaluable for career advancement.

As a student in Franklin’s online accounting master’s degree, you’ll gain the foundational knowledge to prepare for the CPA exam. To become a licensed CPA, you’ll need 150 hours of college credit including advanced accounting knowledge. At Franklin, you’ll develop in-depth knowledge that aligns with the CPA exam, helping you better understand and answer the exam questions. In addition, our graduate courses include assignments that are specifically designed to prepare students for the CPA exam, including practice CPA exam questions and exam strategies. This targeted preparation can help you familiarize yourself with the format and content of the exam and, thereby, greatly improve your likelihood of success.

Your success depends a lot on you – and Franklin is here to help. Our master’s in accounting for non-business majors includes corerequisites to help you build the strong accounting foundation necessary to succeed in the graduate-level program. These courses cover the introductory material required for more advanced coursework, so you can be assured that you’ll be well-prepared for the more challenging material you’ll encounter in the M.S. in Accounting degree program.

Yes, you may take prerequisite courses from any accredited school.

If you’ve earned a non-accounting bachelor’s degree, pursuing a master’s degree instead of a second bachelor's degree in accounting could allow you to take a more focused approach. Franklin’s M.S. in Accounting degree allows you to specialize in either financial operations or taxation, whereas a bachelor’s degree offers a much broader field of study.

So, if you’re looking to develop advanced skills in a particular area of accounting, a master’s degree provides greater opportunity to deepen your understanding of the subject matter. A master’s degree also can help you stand out in a competitive job market and help with career advancement – especially if you’re interested in a management or leadership role.