Accounting vs. Finance: Which Master’s Program is Right for You?
Are you trying to decide between a master’s degree in accounting vs. a master’s degree in finance? While there is a strong relationship between these two fields of study, accounting and finance are significantly different, and it’s important you understand the differences so that you can decide which degree will best help you achieve your career goals. No matter which degree you are considering, the Sellinger School of Business at Loyola University Maryland is a great place to explore your options, offering both a Master of Accounting program and a Master of Science in Finance program.
While there is some crossover between course content for accounting and finance, accounting tends to have a narrower focus dealing with the tangible day-to-day skills needed to manage financial reports and records. Those who study accounting tend to be interested in the principles and processes used to manage numbers. Finance is wider-ranging in focus and covers a variety of specializations. Those who study finance are usually more interested in financial analysis and strategy. For an in-depth overview, Top Universities offers a complete breakdown of accounting vs. finance based on course content, skills gained, career and salary potential.
Both accounting and finance develop in-demand skills and offer great job potential. There are a lot of similarities in the potential careers you might pursue with either of these backgrounds.
Common accounting job titles include accountant, financial analyst and tax manager. Accounting jobs involve maintaining accurate financial records and analyzing the collected data. Sellinger’s Master of Accounting program is designed for recent accounting graduates who want immediate, high-quality coursework relevant to the profession to jump-start their careers. A master’s degree in accounting will advance your skills in auditing, taxation, financial and cost accounting and prepare you to pursue senior accounting jobs in both the public and private sectors.
Common finance job titles include risk manager, financial analyst and investment manager. Careers in finance involve the effective use of an organization’s money and creating and managing a financial plan. A master’s degree in finance will enhance your skills in developing advanced strategies for quality improvement, compliance and reimbursement. Sellinger’s MS Finance program will help you develop expertise in financial analysis, corporate finance and investment management. Those with a finance background will have the opportunity to deepen their proficiency in specific areas to include investment banking, derivatives, financial analysis and investment analysis.
Many Sellinger alumni hold prominent positions in organizations across the region. Graduates join an elite network of more than 20,000 Sellinger alumni throughout leading business, nonprofit and government organizations. Learn more about our business graduate programs admissions requirements.