<p>UT Austin is #1 in their MPA program, offer a great study abroad program, and have a wonderful alumni network. However, after graduation, I would like to live/work in the Northeast - most likely NYC. Boston is obviously better located for recruitment there. Boston's program, however, doesn't seem up to par with UT based on what I can find online. Does anyone have any opinions with this?? How is BC regarded in the Northeast?? Should I go to Texas just for the program length and then move to the NE?</p>
<p>If you are getting the Masters to qualify to become a CPA I would go with BC since you want to live in the Northeast and their recruiters will hiring for positions in the Northeast, whereas UT’s recruiters will be recruiting for positions in the South. BC’s program won’t hold you back from the Big 4 if that is what you are looking to do.</p>
<p>They would both be fine. If you want to start work at a Big 4 or another large CPA firm, they will likely do a first interview at either the UT and BC campus. If the first interview goes well, the firms will then refer you to an office you expressed interest in (you may have to give a few choices) where you will have a second interview. The process may be a bit more cumbersome since you have to be referred to the office you want, but the process works. The accounting firms are very good at picking up talent, especially from the top schools. My S is finishing his MSA program in the Midwest and got offers from Big 4 firms in NYC and CT. </p>
<p>I’m not sure how big the UT alumni base is in the east compared to BC which may be a consideration, but the UT program is certainly very well known and well respected so you should be fine. Do your research (including asking UT if students can get placed in jobs in the Northeast) and go to the program that suits you the best. If one program is shorter/more compressed, that can be a big consideration. You have two fine choices.</p>
<p>By the way of this post, I would like to give a little info to the OP. UT-Austin’s diploma won’t prevent you from working in the Northeast. Its just that most of the recruiters at Austin will be from south and west. So, go for the superior program. Go with University of Texas at Austin.</p>