<p>I am considering majoring in accounting and economics, but my school offers two seperate degrees for the afformentioned subjects. I am already a junior and majoring in accounting, and I hope to become a CPA. Getting an extra degree in economics will take me one additional year of schooling, but I love the analytical skills gained by getting a degree in economics. How will an additional degree in economics help or hurt my chances of becoming a CPA at a big four firm? Will a CPA firm frown upon the additional year of schooling? If I become a five year student, when should I apply for internships?</p>
<p>You should spend that extra year getting a Master's in Accounting to get you ready for that CPA exam.</p>
<p>"How will an additional degree in economics help or hurt my chances of becoming a CPA at a big four firm? Will a CPA firm frown upon the additional year of schooling? If I become a five year student, when should I apply for internships?"</p>
<p>It won't make a big difference. If you were able to finish a dual-degree program in four years, you could leverage that in interviews as an example of good time management and task prioritizing skills; however, getting two bachelor's in five years is not going to differentiate you from those who went the five year master's route.</p>
<p>If you qualify to sit for the exam after finish both degrees (which you most likely will, tough it depends on your school and the state for which you want to sit), however, you will not be at a disadvantage compared to those who have a Master's. In other words, if having the B.A. interests you that much more than getting a MAcc, then, by all means, do what interests you--you won't be penalized for it. Your pay will not differ (and if it does, not by much) nor will your career progression if you do not have a Master's as long as you are elligible to sit for the exam. I went the dual-bachelor's route (a BSBA and a BA) and I'm very happy that I did--it's been very useful.</p>
<p>As a five year student, you can still start applying for internships after soph/junior year (primarily junior year). Earlier is better. Try to take as many accounting courses earlier on, if possible, and try to take as many accounting courses as you can.</p>