<p>I'm a senior majoring in accounting in UIUC. I'm thinking about either extending one more semester to get a Finance degree or getting into accounting master program directly.
If I extend one more semester, I'll have more time to prepare for CPA exams and probably will let me find a job sooner.
If I get into MAS program, I'll need to do more cases and projects. But probably a master degree will help me find a job more easily? with a higher salary?</p>
<p>If you guys are in my position, which will you choose?
1. 4.5 years undergraduate education (triple majors on accounting, actuarial science and finance) plus a NYU online accounting certificate. graduate in winter
2. 4+1 BS/MAS program (dual bachelors on accounting and actuarial science) graduate in summer</p>
<p>Which one will be more helpful in terms of finding a good job?</p>
<p>I’m inclined to think that a master’s in accounting will be more helpful in terms of getting a job (especially as an accountant), especially if the finance major requires so few additional courses that you’d only have to stay an extra semester. Majors are not what get you jobs; work/internship experience and skills get you jobs.</p>
<p>You also have the option of doing neither and looking for an entry-level accounting or actuary job. Most actuaries take 1-3 exams in school but take the rest while working full time, and many actuarial employers give their actuaries time off to study. I’m not as sure about accounting.</p>
<p>Thank you for the advice, Juillet. I’m thinking about finding a winter/spring internship. This is why I want to extend one more semester and see if I can get a job next Spring. Summer season is more competitive.</p>