Wondering what comes after graduate school? Boise State’s online Master of Science in Accountancy, Foundations program prepares you for a wide range of accounting careers while also helping you qualify for the CPA exam. This degree is especially designed for students who don’t hold an undergraduate degree in accounting but want to pivot into this profitable field with confidence.
In-demand roles with an accounting degree
An MSA Foundations degree equips you with both the prerequisite and advanced coursework employers value. Graduates are prepared for a variety of high-demand roles, including:
- Tax manager
- Audit manager
- Financial analyst
- Accounting manager
- IT auditor
- Controller or CFO (with experience)
These positions exist across several industries, including finance, healthcare, nonprofit and government, giving you flexibility in applying your skills. We also highlight common career paths for accountancy graduates on our accounting careers page.
Salary expectations
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2024, the median annual wage for accountants and auditors is about $81,680. For professionals with a master’s degree and CPA licensure, earning potential is even higher, particularly in leadership or specialized roles. Over time, the combination of advanced education and licensure can position you for salaries well above the median.
Job growth for accountants
Accounting offers stability and upward mobility. Employment for accountants and auditors is projected to grow 6% between 2023 and 2033, which is faster than average compared to all occupations. That growth translates into roughly 130,800 job openings each year as companies expand and experienced accountants retire. For students completing MSA Foundations, this means entering a profession with steady demand and room for advancement.
CPA exam preparation
One key aspect of the MSA Foundations program is its built-in preparation for CPA licensure. The degree provides the coursework needed to meet the 150-credit hour requirement for exam eligibility. Rather than piecing together prerequisites at multiple institutions, this program integrates both foundational and graduate-level classes into one pathway. This streamlines your journey, allowing you to move toward licensure without extra detours.
Why accounting is resilient
Accounting has long been considered a resilient career choice. Every type of organization — businesses, nonprofits, government agencies and healthcare systems — requires skilled accountants to manage audits, ensure compliance, oversee financial reporting and plan for taxes. Even during economic downturns, these functions remain critical, making accounting a profession with a strong degree of job security.
How the degree pays off
Graduate education is an investment, and with Boise State’s MSA Foundations degree, the financial payoff can begin sooner than you expect. You could qualify for employer tuition assistance, which may include tax‑free benefits up to $5,250 per year, as long as your employer offers a qualifying educational assistance program. When paired with the higher salaries and job stability that come with a master’s degree and CPA licensure, the financial benefits become clear.
In short, the MSA Foundations degree not only opens doors to in-demand roles but also positions you for long-term financial and professional success.
Learn more about the Online MSA Foundations
Earning an Online Master of Science in Accountancy, Foundations from Boise State University can open doors to new opportunities and a brighter future — and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re exploring if an online degree is right for you or need help transferring credits, connecting with a student success coach is the perfect first step.
Ready to learn more? Attend one of our online information sessions or contact a student success coach today.