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Posted May 6, 2026

Is a masters degree in accounting really worth it?

Becoming an accountant remains a popular career choice in the UK and elsewhere in the world. Achieving chartered or certified status is the route to industry for most, and while not a legal requirement to practice as an accountant, holding a recognised professional qualification and relevant experience can mean the difference between a good job with a promising salary and a great position that helps to secure a stable financial future.

Memberships with accountancy bodies like The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) are growing. According to recent research, membership grew by 0.8% in the UK and ROI, and 1.1% worldwide, with more than 408,000 members domestically and over 623,000 internationally.

Alongside membership, many would-be accountants consider studying for a masters degree. But, is it really necessary? Let’s find out…

Do you need a masters to be an accountant in the UK?

Just like membership with an accountancy body, a masters degree is not a standard requirement of being an accountant in the UK.

Most enter the profession by completing a relevant undergraduate degree. This undergraduate degree doesn’t even have to be in accounting, providing you go onto pursue a professional qualification such as those awarded by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), or Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW).

Those not interested in achieving chartered or certified status, or would-be accountants with no experience in the field, have another option too as BPP explains:

“The Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) is the world’s leading professional body for accountancy technicians. As a globally recognised and respected route, the AAT qualification is perfect for those with no previous accountancy or finance experience, and those looking to switch career paths. Once you are an AAT qualified accountant, you can work as a self-employed accountant or apply for various roles at established firms.”

When is a masters in accounting worth it?

Don’t write off studying a masters degree in accounting just yet! There are many instances where it can be worth it, especially if you want to gain chartered or certified status to consolidate your experience.

Many MSc accounting programs offer exemptions from exams with bodies like ACCA or CIMA to shorten the time it takes to qualify professionally. Those switching career, particularly from non-accounting backgrounds, will also find the masters a solid foundation with the deeper technical knowledge gained even offering access to more specialised roles.

Can having a masters help my accounting career?

Yes – in the ultra-competitive world of accounting, having a masters degree under your belt could help you stand out from the crowd. This is particularly true if you gained your masters at a prestigious university and/or your masters degree program included internships or work placements.

Some employers even offer slightly higher starting salaries to postgrads, but remember this is not guaranteed.

Is a masters in accounting right for you?

If you’re changing careers, didn’t study accountancy at undergraduate level, or the masters program you have your eye on has very strong placement opportunities or alumni connections, then studying for a masters in accounting could just be a step in the right direction.

The easiest way to determine if a masters is the correct move for you is to explore our postgraduate courses in accounting. So, what are you waiting for? See all our accounting courses today for details!

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