It’s no secret that higher education leads to a higher salary. It’s also clear when looking at data regarding income and education across the United States that those with a higher degree have a higher income. In fact, according to the Census Bureau nearly everyone without a high school diploma makes less than $25,000. This includes anyone with GEDs, high school diplomas, or associates degrees.
Salary for an accountant with a masters degree varies widely by metro, state, and industry. In this article, we’ll give you an overview of the most important factors that influence a CPA’s salary.
A salary for an accountant with a masters degree can range from $83,000 to $100,000.
Some factors that could affect this range include the size of the company and how much experience you have.
Salary for an accountant with a masters degree
Earning a master’s degree in accounting can provide additional career opportunities for professionals in the finance industry. Learning the average salary if you have a master’s in accounting can aid in your decision to pursue additional education. In this article, we list 10 jobs you can perform with a master’s in accounting along with their average salaries, plus answer some common questions.
10 master’s in accounting jobs with salaries
Here’s a list of jobs you may consider pursuing with a master’s degree in accounting, although you may be able to apply with a bachelor’s degree.
1. Forensic accountant
National average salary: $66,275 per yearPrimary duties: Forensic accountants investigate unusual bookkeeping records that indicate fraud. They conduct audits and work with authorities to examine monetary malfeasance. Once they find a counterfeit account, forensic accountants make reports detailing their investigations. They may also need to testify in court proceedings regarding any fraudulent accounting activity.
2. Financial analyst
National average salary: $67,764 per year
Primary duties: Financial analysts provide insight to senior management regarding investment portfolios, spending, budgeting and company assets. They work as an internal consultant to study reports and make conclusions about how an organization should allocate funds.
3. Internal auditor
National average salary: $76,737 per yearPrimary duties: An internal auditor is concerned with checking financial reporting systems within an organization to ensure they show accurate monetary information. They understand and help implement all financial policies for a company. Internal auditors perform routine inspections to assess financial records and processes for a business. They may also advise leadership about possible waste, fraud and ways to maximize spending.
4. Accounting manager
National average salary: $78,764 per year
Primary duties: An accounting manager oversees the daily operations of accounting departments including staff and all accounting procedures. They help establish policies and verify the accuracy of accounting records. They work with other company leaders to share department information and influence organizational practices.
5. Senior tax accountant
National average salary: $79,815 per year
Primary duties: A senior tax accountant prepares tax schedules for a business. They understand tax laws and regulations to ensure compliance with all state and federal policies. A senior tax accountant may also partner with outside tax preparation services to oversee the completion of all necessary documentation and payments.
6. Certified public accountant (CPA)
National average salary: $81,463 per yearPrimary duties: Certified public accountants receive certification as trained bookkeeping professionals. They assist businesses with all financial accounting including profit and loss statements, payroll, tax returns and other financial records. A certified public accountant can also work with individuals to advise on tax withholdings and returns.
7. Financial controller
National average salary: $88,520 per year
Primary duties: It’s the responsibility of a financial controller to oversee a team of financial analysts. Apart from supervisory duties, financial controllers monitor accounts to approve invoices and identify any that are past due. They advise leadership based on financial trends and prepare reports outlining fiscal information for an organization.
8. Finance manager
National average salary: $95,357 per yearPrimary duties: A finance manager works to strategize monetary decisions for a company based on current market trends. They oversee financial reporting and ensure all tax documents are correctly documented and in compliance with state and federal regulations. Finance managers look for ways to save money and use it more efficiently within an organization.
9. Corporate controller
National average salary: $111,232 per year
Primary duties: Like a financial controller, corporate controllers help manage the financial interests of an organization. However, their work is more closely related to the overall financial health of a company. Corporate controllers formulate and scrutinize budgets and oversee employee payroll. They report to upper management regarding a corporation’s monetary trends.
10. Chief financial officer (CFO)
National average salary: $130,105 per yearPrimary duties: Chief financial officers lead the financial decisions and processes of a company. They are responsible for managing all financial staff members within an organization. A CFO must ensure that all financial accounting meets compliance standards. They provide financial reports to a company’s CEO and may work with them to establish long-term financial strategies to drive business growth.