How to Get a Master's in Accounting for Non-Accounting Majors

Figuring out what you want to do with your career can be a winding road. Maybe you majored in marketing, psychology, or even biology, and now you’re thinking, “Should I go back to school for accounting?” If you’ve ever considered switching gears and earning a master’s in accounting, but don’t have an undergraduate degree in the field, you’re not alone—and you’re definitely not out of luck.

At Bellevue University, we specialize in helping people like you take your next step with confidence, especially if that step means transitioning into a new field like accounting. If numbers, analysis, and meaningful work sound appealing, a Master of Science in Accounting could be the perfect fit, even if your undergraduate degree says otherwise.

Let’s break it down: why this path works, how to make the switch, and what you can expect along the way.

See also What Is a Master’s in Accounting?

Can You Really Get a Master’s in Accounting Without a Bachelor’s in Accounting?

While many students pursuing a master’s in accounting do come from a business or accounting background, it’s absolutely possible to enter the field from another major. At Bellevue University, we’ve designed our online Master of Science in Accounting to be accessible for non-accounting majors, without sacrificing the quality, rigor, or real-world relevance of the degree.

In fact, many students find that their diverse backgrounds give them a competitive edge in the accounting field. Whether you bring communication skills from an English degree or data analysis chops from a science background, your prior education and work experience can help you stand out.

Do you have a bachelor’s in business administration?

Students who’ve completed key accounting prerequisites (like cost accounting and intermediate accounting) as part of their undergraduate business administration program often qualify to enter the M.S. in Accounting program with little or no additional coursework required.

Even better....If you’re a Bellevue University Business Administration student, you may be eligible to start taking graduate-level accounting courses during your senior year (after completing 90 undergraduate credits). Through our dual-credit option, you can begin earning credit toward your master’s degree while finishing your bachelor’s.

Why Switch to Accounting?

If you’re considering a master’s in accounting, you probably already know the field offers stability and long-term career growth. But there’s more to it than just job security.
Here are a few reasons why people make the switch:

1. Career Change Potential

Accounting is a practical, in-demand career with clear advancement opportunities. A master’s degree can help you pivot into roles like:

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA)*
• Financial Analyst
• Controller
• Auditor
• Tax Consultant

2. High Earning Potential

The earning potential for accountants increases with experience, certifications (like the CPA), and advanced degrees. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, accountants and auditors earn a median salary of over $78,000 per year, and that number climbs with seniority and specialization.

3. Versatility Across Industries

Accounting isn’t just for accounting firms. Every industry needs professionals who understand finance and compliance. From healthcare and tech to government and nonprofits, accounting expertise is in demand.

Accounting is challenging, but that is what makes it fun—to solve problems to help any type of organization. Accounting has a lot of opportunities for upward mobility, because all organizations need accountants and need leaders of the organization to have strong accounting knowledge and skills. Finally, accounting does not limit a student to a certain type of organization. There are accountants in all types of organizations, for example, hospitals, state and federal government, corporations, small businesses, and CPA firms, to name a few.

– Cynthia Nye, Associate Professor in the Bellevue University College of Business

What You’ll Need to Get Started on a Master’s in Accounting

If you’re coming from a non-accounting background, getting into a master’s program might feel a little like stepping into unfamiliar territory. The key is preparation. And the great news is, we’ve broken it down into manageable steps to help you get started with confidence.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you map out your journey toward a Master of Science in Accounting at Bellevue University:

1. Meet Prerequisite Requirements

Before jumping into graduate-level coursework, you’ll need a solid foundation in key accounting concepts. Most non-accounting majors will need to complete a few prerequisite courses to get up to speed. These typically include:

• Cost Accounting
• Intermediate Accounting I & II

These courses introduce essential topics like inventory valuation, revenue recognition, and financial reporting—building blocks you’ll need for success in the master’s program. Take a look at these short courses from Bellevue University in undergraduate accounting, which consist of four 3-credit courses in Cost Accounting and Financial Accounting. Each will earn you a Certificate of Completion and can help meet prerequisite requirements.

2. Strengthen Your Accounting Fundamentals

If it’s been a while since you brushed up on financial concepts (or if this is all new to you), now’s a good time to get familiar with the basics:

• How to read and interpret financial statements
• Introductory tax principles
• Basic auditing practices

Even a few self-paced tutorials or online resources can help you feel more comfortable with the language and logic of accounting.

3. Improve Your Technical Skills

Modern accounting goes beyond pen and paper. It’s powered by data and technology. Building your technical toolkit will give you a serious advantage. We recommend sharpening your skills in:

• Excel: Think pivot tables, VLOOKUP, macros—these are bread-and-butter tools in the accounting world.
• Financial software: Familiarity with platforms like QuickBooks, SAP, or Microsoft Dynamics is a plus.
• Data analysis tools: As accounting becomes more data-driven, comfort with tools like Power BI or Tableau can be a huge asset.

Many of these tools are integrated into your coursework, but arriving with a working knowledge gives you a head start.

4. Explore Bridge Programs or Boot Camps

If you’re looking for a smoother transition into graduate-level accounting, consider enrolling in bridge programs, boot camps, or certificates of completion. These short, targeted learning opportunities are a smart way to fill in any knowledge gaps before you dive into a full master’s program.

Bellevue University offers several Certificates of Completion through the College of Business that are especially helpful for non-accounting majors, which each consist of four 3-credit courses in undergraduate accounting, including:

• Accounting Technology: Covers essential accounting systems and processes, with hands-on experience in industry software.
• Cost Accounting: Focuses on budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis for managerial decision-making.
• Financial Accounting: Helps you build a strong foundation in financial reporting, statement preparation, and GAAP standards.
• Tax: Introduces personal and corporate tax principles, including preparation, compliance, and planning.

These certificates are designed to be completed seamlessly online, making them a convenient way to boost your accounting fluency without committing to a full degree (yet!). Plus, the skills you gain may be immediately applied to your current job while preparing you for graduate-level work.

5. Connect with an Advisor

One of the smartest moves you can make? Talk to an advisor in admissions early. Seriously, they’re here to help, and they’ve worked with plenty of students making the same career change you’re considering.

An advisor can help you:

• Review your academic background and evaluate the credits you’ve previously earned
• Identify which prerequisites you need (and how to complete them)
• Explain the program structure and expectations
• Map out a timeline that fits your personal and professional life

Whether you’re still in the “just exploring” phase or ready to apply, this conversation is a great way to start putting a plan in motion.

Reach out to an advisor for more information today.

6. Consider Professional Certifications

If you’re already thinking ahead to your long-term career goals, it’s a good idea to explore certifications like the CPA (Certified Public Accountant) or CMA (Certified Management Accountant). While earning your M.S. in Accounting won’t automatically qualify you to be certified, it can help lay the academic groundwork needed to pursue these credentials.

Important note: Our Master’s in Accounting program is considered a non-licensure degree program and is not intended for those seeking licensure or the practice of a licensed profession. While it may be relevant to careers that don’t require licensure, it was not designed to meet educational requirements for any specific professional license or certification.*

* Each state has their own requirements to sit for the CPA exam, but most states require 150 credit hours. Visit the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy for eligibility and steps toward taking the CPA exam.

The Master of Science in Accounting allows students the opportunity to work toward the 150 credit hour requirement that is required in some states to sit for the CPA exam. Students pursuing the Bachelor of Science in Accounting can start taking graduate accounting courses in their senior year that will give them a jumpstart on the Master of Science in Accounting degree.

– Cynthia Nye, Associate Professor in the Bellevue University College of Business

A Flexible Online Program Built for Working Adults

One of the reasons Bellevue University is an excellent choice for non-traditional students is our focus on adult learners. Our fully online Master of Science in Accounting is built to fit into your busy life—whether you’re working full time, raising a family, or both.

Here’s what that flexibility looks like:

• 100% Online Classes: Study from anywhere.
• Supportive Faculty: Learn from experts who understand career-changers.
• Career-Aligned Curriculum: Graduate with job-ready skills.

Is a Master’s in Accounting Right for You?

If you’re curious about switching to a career in accounting, ask yourself:

• Do I enjoy working with data and solving problems?
• Am I interested in finance, business operations, or strategy?
• Do I want a career with stability and growth potential?
• Am I ready to invest in a degree that opens new doors?

If you answered yes to any of those questions, a master’s in accounting might be the right next step.

You Don’t Have to Start Over — You Just Have to Start

Making a change can feel overwhelming, especially if it means going back to school. But getting your master’s in accounting without an accounting degree isn’t just possible—it’s doable, and can be the start of something truly rewarding.

At Bellevue University, we’re here to walk alongside you every step of the way. Whether you need to brush up on the basics or jump straight into the master’s curriculum, we’ll help you create a plan that fits your goals, your life, and your future.

Related resources we think you’ll like.

How to Get a Master's Degree: Qualifications & Requirements
Is a Master’s in Accounting Worth It?
3 Reasons to Pursue a Master's Degree