When students and career changers ask what an accounting degree is called, the immediate answer is a Bachelor of Accounting or a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. However, the landscape of higher education in this field is more diverse than a single title suggests. From specialized undergraduate programs to graduate-level designations that signal expertise, the nomenclature reflects the depth and specialization within the profession. Understanding these names is the first step for anyone navigating the path to becoming a certified public accountant or a financial executive.
The Foundational Undergraduate Title
The most common entry point into the profession is an undergraduate degree. At this level, the answer to "what is accounting degree called" is typically straightforward. You will earn either a Bachelor of Accounting (BAcc) or a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting. The BAcc is often viewed as a more specialized degree, deeply focused on accounting principles, ethics, and technical skills. Conversely, the BS in Accounting usually exists within a broader business school environment, incorporating more general business courses like marketing and management alongside core accounting curriculum.
Beyond the Bachelor: Master's and MBAs
For those looking to advance beyond the entry-level position or switch into accounting from another discipline, the accounting degree called changes to reflect a higher level of commitment. A Master of Accounting (MAcc) is a terminal master's degree designed specifically to prepare students for the CPA exam and upper-level technical roles. Alternatively, many students opt for a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in accounting. While the MBA is a general management degree, the concentration allows the holder to specialize in finance and accounting without committing to the highly technical MAcc track.
The Professional Certification Distinction
It is crucial to distinguish between an academic degree and a professional certification, though they are often intertwined. The degree itself is a title awarded by a university upon completion of coursework. However, the true mark of a professional accountant is the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) credential. To maintain the title of CPA, one must meet continuing professional education (CPE) requirements. While the degree gets you licensed, the CPE keeps you licensed, ensuring that the professional stays current with tax laws and auditing standards long after the initial degree is called.
Global Variations in Nomenclature
The answer to what is accounting degree called can vary significantly depending on the country. In the United Kingdom and Australia, for example, the path often begins with a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) with a major in Accounting. In Canada, the designation is heavily regulated, and graduates must complete specific courses and articling periods to earn the Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation. These international variations highlight that the name of the degree is often tied to the regulatory standards and professional bodies of that specific region.
The Rise of Specialized Master's Degrees
As the financial landscape becomes more complex, the market for specialized master's degrees has grown. These programs go beyond the standard MAcc to focus on high-demand niches. Degrees such as a Master of Science in Forensic Accounting or a Master of Science in Taxation are specific answers to the question of what accounting degree is called. These titles indicate a deep, targeted expertise that appeals to firms dealing with litigation support, fraud examination, or complex international tax strategy.
Choosing the Right Path for Your Career
Selecting the correct academic path requires aligning your degree title with your career goals. If you aspire to be a auditor or tax consultant immediately after graduation, a Bachelor of Accounting or a Master of Accounting provides the technical rigor employers seek. If you aim for a C-suite position like Chief Financial Officer (CFO), an MBA with accounting acumen might be the better call. The degree name is a strategic tool; it signals to employers your intended trajectory, whether that is technical proficiency, leadership, or a blend of both.
