Why Today’s Accountants Need a Master’s Degree
AI, machine learning and sustainable and responsible business practices require new roles and skills
In this time of rapid technological evolution, heightened environmental awareness and global economic uncertainty, accountants must be increasingly responsive to industry changes brought about by emerging technologies and evolving regulations.
With AI and machine learning poised to automate many traditional tasks, accountants with specialized skills, particularly those who can leverage these technologies, will find more opportunities in the years to come. These new roles call for accountants who are also data interpreters, strategic advisers and ethical leaders.
Future proof your accounting career. Earn your master’s! Gain the technological and analytical skills that will set you apart.
Apply NowIn addition, companies will continue to be held to sustainable and responsible business practices, such as reporting on their environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives. Accountants can help companies stay on top of ESG regulations by ensuring accurate data collection, aligning financial reporting with sustainability goals, identifying risks and opportunities, monitoring compliance and advising on evolving standards.
To stay ahead of industry disruption and meet the growing complexity of the profession, a master’s degree in accounting is becoming less of a luxury and more of a necessity.
Rapid Transformation
High-value, human-centric functions will remain even as emerging technologies are expected to change the work of tomorrow’s accountants.
Accountants who know how to leverage AI can provide unique perspectives on financial modeling, data analysis, strategic planning, risk management and client strategies, even as they undertake regulatory reporting and disclosure for ESG.
These shifts will add a new layer of complexity and responsibility to an accountant’s role. Sacred Heart’s master’s degree in accounting is future-focused, with a lens on preparing students for the future, as well as giving them the tools to understand the basic principles, from advanced financial data analysis to individual and institutional compliance with tax rules, policies and reporting.
Increased Demand for Financial Leaders
In this world of automation, the value of accounting professionals lies in what can’t be automated: judgment, strategy and ethics. Accountants will need to build skills that machine learning simply cannot replicate. The ability to extract meaning from raw data, translate it and create effective business strategies will be highly valued.
With calls for more sustainable and responsible business practices, accountants will have a bigger role in ethical decision-making. Today’s accounting professionals are expected to understand how environmental impact, social responsibilities and governance practices affect financial performance—and how to measure and report on those impacts.
Further, forensic accountants will be needed to test organization’s potential ESG-related financial data to ensure its accuracy and reliability—both to ensure goals are met, as well as to identify fraud.
Industry Demands
The best graduate programs in accounting today are deeply integrated with industry demands. They blend advanced coursework with hands-on projects and simulations that reflect the challenges you’ll face in the field.
At Sacred Heart, students learn from accounting faculty members who are recognized experts in their fields. Accomplished guest speakers are also invited to meet with students and provide expert insight into the latest accounting and financial trends.
Tomorrow’s accountants will need more skills, not less. A master’s degree can be a key differentiator in a competitive job market. As the role of accountant continues to evolve, professionals who are adaptable, strategic and agile will have opportunities to excel and grow in this field.
Looking to earn a Master of Science in Accounting?
At Sacred Heart, the master’s program in accounting will help you boost your expertise and meet the demand for skilled accountants with advanced degrees. With three concentrations that align with the new CPA model, you’ll be assured you are developing the critical thinking, analytical and communication skills required to meet the needs of today’s global economy.
If you are wondering how long does it take to get a master's degree in accounting, learn how you can earn your degree through Sacred Heart’s unique hybrid format. It allows you to continue to work full time. Learn more about the master of science in accounting program by requesting information or attending a virtual information session. You can also reach out to Ed Nassr, associate director of graduate admissions at 203-396-6877, by email at nassre@sacredheart.edu or by scheduling a virtual appointment today!
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