Can non-business majors earn an MBA or MS in Accounting?

You don't need an undergraduate business degree to pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or Master of Science in Accounting (MSA). While having one can strengthen your application, most MBA programs and advanced business degrees, such as an MBA or a dual MSA/MBA, welcome applicants from diverse academic backgrounds. 

This inclusivity allows individuals with varied undergraduate majors to transition into  business-focused graduate programs, preparing them for careers in management, accounting, and related fields.

This article will explore the pathways and considerations for non-business majors looking to pursue these graduate programs. 

Does your master's degree have to be related to your bachelor's degree?  

No, your master's degree does not have to be related to your bachelor's degree. While foundational knowledge in business can be beneficial when pursuing an advanced business degree, admissions committees typically prioritize qualities like leadership potential, work experience, and career aspirations over specific undergraduate majors. This allows individuals with various backgrounds including engineering, sciences, communication and other fields to pursue an advanced business degree and transition into roles that align with their professional goals. 

Do you need a business degree to get an MBA?  

No, you don't need an undergraduate business degree to pursue an MBA. Many MBA programs accept students from diverse academic backgrounds, including engineering, humanities, economics, computer sciences, and social sciences. Admissions committees typically look for a combination of academic performance, work experience, leadership potential, and other qualities rather than requiring a specific undergraduate degree. 

While specific prerequisites can vary, most programs require applicants to have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Some programs may also require prerequisite coursework in areas such as accounting, economics, or statistics for applicants without a business background, ensuring all students have a foundational understanding for MBA coursework.  

Admissions committees also value significant work experience. This work experience helps demonstrate a candidate's readiness for MBA coursework and improves their contributions to classroom discussions and group projects. 

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How can you become an accountant with a different undergraduate degree?  

While some accelerated Master's in Accounting programs are tailored to students who majored in accounting during their undergraduate studies, there are pathways for individuals with different undergraduate degrees to become accountants.  

Many MS in Accounting/MBA programs are specifically designed for students without an undergraduate degree in accounting. These programs typically offer foundational courses in accounting principles and practices, ensuring that students acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in the field.  

Some programs may require prerequisite coursework in accounting or related areas to provide a solid foundation before advancing to more specialized topics. These educational pathways allow graduates from diverse academic backgrounds to pursue careers in accounting by equipping them with the essential qualifications and expertise the profession requires. 

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What other business master's degrees should you consider?  

While an MBA and MS in Accounting are perhaps the best well-known graduate business degrees, there are many other options to consider. Each of these master's programs offer specialized expertise in key areas of business to advance your career and meet industry demands. 

Here are several options to explore, each offering specialized expertise in key areas of business to advance your career and meet industry demands: 

MS in Finance

An MS in Finance provides students with advanced financial management skills such as investment analysis, financial modeling, and risk management. This program prepares graduates for careers in corporate finance, investment banking, and financial consulting. 

MS in Business Analytics 

An MS in Business Analytics focuses on data-driven decision-making, statistical analysis, and predictive modeling. Graduates are prepared for roles in business intelligence, data science, and analytics consulting, meeting the growing demand for professionals who can gain insights from complex data sets. 

MS in Management 

An MS in Management provides a comprehensive understanding of organizational leadership, strategic management, and operational efficiency. This program prepares students for management roles across various industries, emphasizing leadership skills and business acumen to drive organizational success.

Ready to get started?  

Are you interested in pursuing a business master's degree? Whether it's an MBA, MS in Accounting, or another specialized program, there are routes for students from diverse academic backgrounds to excel in the business world without a business-focused academic background. 

If you're ready to take the next step or have questions about admissions, you can attend an info session or request more information from our admissions team about your program of choice. Discover how our programs can prepare you for success in the business world. Explore your options and start shaping your future in business today!