A career change can feel intimidating, but many students interested in the accounting profession have successfully made the transition through Boise State’s Online Master of Science in Accountancy, Foundations. Whether you studied chemistry, education, communications or another field for your undergrad, this flexible degree plan creates a clear path to enter accounting at the graduate level.
Why accounting?
Here’s a quick look at a few of the top reasons for considering a career switch to accounting in the first place:
- Competitive salaries: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average yearly salary for accountants and auditors was $81,860 in 2024. That works out to about $39.27 per hour.
- Strong job growth and security: The job outlook for accounting is on track to increase by 5% in the next 10 years, with current openings totalling over one million in 2024.
- Career options: From auditors to chief financial officers, there are numerous career opportunities for advancement across various industries, including healthcare, finance, government and private business operating globally.
- Skill development: Being skilled with numbers is a magic trick in itself, but accounting also helps develop your analytical thinking, accuracy, problem-solving, communication and decision-making skills.
Why Boise State’s online MSA Foundations program?
Boise State Online holds AACSB Accounting Accreditation, meaning the criteria and standards for excellence in accounting education are met as determined by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
How MSA Foundations supports career changers
Boise State Online’s MSA Foundations program makes it easy for students to thrive by offering:
- Transcript reviews to customize your course plan.
- Foundational courses built into the program to help you accelerate your degree timeline.
- Experienced faculty and success coaches who understand your needs as an adult learner.
- Online flexibility that allows you to have a better work-life balance.
- A path to CPA Licensure, thus opening doors to leadership positions and higher salaries.
- Scholarship opportunities: Idaho residents and veterans automatically qualify for a 15% scholarship discount. Additional scholarships are also available through the university’s application process. Even if you don’t qualify for a scholarship, Boise State is well-known for the reasonably-priced tuition of its MSA programs and commitment to its students.
MSA Foundations student success stories
Tracy Kleinschmidt earned her undergraduate degree in chemistry before transitioning into accounting. After a transcript review, she only needed two foundational courses before starting her master-level classes. While working full-time, she completed her coursework online, refreshed her tax knowledge and earned a promotion into an accounting management role.
“I researched a lot of accounting programs both local and online. However, I felt the course subjects offered in Boise State’s program are in-depth and top-notch. As I conducted further research and had more and more interactions with Boise State staff, they consistently communicated clearly and thoroughly with me as a student,” Kleinschmidt said.
After majoring in mechanical engineering and secondary education followed by a decade running his own business, Joel Tillman found himself looking for a master’s in accounting program — and a job — that would allow for more time with family. He ultimately went with the online MSA Foundations program because, “Boise State was affordable, and its reputation is on the rise. The more I looked into the master’s program at Boise State, the more I thought, ‘That’s the place.’”
“Having a master’s degree absolutely opened some doors for me,” he said. “I applied for six positions and ended up with three offers within two months. I got a great return on investment,” Tillman said.
Kelly Shrike entered into accounting after gaining experience in other office administration roles. “I chose Boise State because it was affordable. I also liked the pass rates for the CPA exam. I had a great experience with my student success coach. She put together a program before I signed up where I could see what the degree would entail,” she said.
That’s just a few examples of the many students who have gone through the admissions process and earned their degree.
Strategies for a smooth transition into accounting
- Leverage your strengths: Use transferable skills like problem solving and critical thinking.
- Plan your time: Set aside study blocks around your work schedule.
- Connect early: Build relationships with faculty and peers online for support.
- Stay informed: Keep up-to-date on industry trends and areas of opportunity.
Learn more about the online MSA Foundations program
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.