Top Paying Jobs You Can Get With a Master's in Accounting

A master’s degree in accounting (MAcc) can set you up for well-paying leadership positions in many organizations. C-suite positions in finance usually require an advanced degree as well as a deep understanding of technology in order to make strategic financial decisions for organizations.¹

This article will explore various career paths that a master’s in accounting can open up, including job responsibilities and average salaries.

During your coursework for an MAcc degree, you’ll gain specialized skills and knowledge that will increase your earning potential and prepare you for leadership and executive roles. Although salaries vary depending on seniority and job title, a master's in accounting is a versatile degree that's highly valuable in almost every industry.

The following jobs demonstrate the range of opportunities that are available to professionals with a master's in accounting.

The chief financial officer (CFO) is the senior-level executive tasked with overseeing an organization’s financial strategy. Some of their daily responsibilities include analyzing a company’s financial strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities. They track cash flow, issue financial reports, handle tax obligations and financial compliance reporting and engage in strategic financial planning to drive revenue.

The CFO reports to the chief executive officer (CEO) and works with other senior-level executives to promote a company’s long-term success. CFOs have extensive compliance obligations and must ensure all financial reporting is accurate, complete and transparent.² The median salary for a chief financial officer is $457,885.³

A forensic accountant investigates financial crimes and fraud. They examine financial records–either of an individual or an organization—looking for indications of criminal activities. They’re responsible for writing detailed reports of their findings for law-enforcement agencies, law firms or CEOs. During civil or criminal legal proceedings, they testify about their findings.

Forensic accountants can also conduct audits to ensure an organization is complying with its financial reporting obligations and laws such as the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX), which was passed after several corporate accounting scandals defrauded investors.⁴ The average salary for a forensic accountant is $64,288.⁵

A tax director manages corporate tax strategies to ensure they meet legal requirements and match the organization's overall objectives and values. The tax director is in charge of checking the accuracy of all tax reports. They typically report to senior-level management.

Tax directors work to optimize their company’s tax strategy to avoid paying excessive taxes and may oversee a tax team of junior accountants.⁶ The median annual salary for a tax director is $214,001 in the US.⁷

An audit manager oversees internal or external audits, including operating controls and practices. They check to make sure organizations are following regulations such as those outlined in the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX) and the generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). An audit manager may handle internal audits for the company they work for, or they may work for an auditing firm to conduct external audits. They may be responsible for identifying business process risks, documenting the results of their audits, training junior staff members and making recommendations based on the results of their audits.⁸

The median annual salary for an audit manager is $142,300 in the US.⁹

A financial controller is in charge of ensuring accurate financial reporting. Their job duties will vary based on the size of their organization. In larger companies, they may work with a CFO or treasurer, while in smaller companies they may shoulder the responsibility alone.¹⁰

The median annual salary for a financial controller in the US is $261,104.¹¹

A risk manager identifies and mitigates financial risks. They’re responsible for conducting an assessment to identify risks such as credit, market and liquidity risks. Based on the results of their assessment, they evaluate the potential risks and develop a plan for managing and monitoring them.

Risk managers also oversee the implementation of their plans and report to senior-level managers and other stakeholders.¹² The median annual salary for a risk manager in the US is $112,416.¹³

All industries need accounting professionals, including public, private and government organizations. Financial services and banking firms, including investment banking, frequently hire graduates with MAcc degrees. Because of rapid growth in the tech and startup sectors, there’s also been an increase in demand for accounting professionals with deep technology expertise.¹

Financial leadership is an increasingly complicated field, so many companies are looking for applicants who have additional skills, such as advanced analytical and problem-solving abilities. Choosing a program that offers the opportunity to take electives in your areas of interest can help you develop expertise in areas that will increase your earning potential, such as financial regulations, compliance, or technology.¹

With an advanced degree in accounting, you’ll be in a position to find a job that integrates your interests and abilities. Start by thinking about what industries you’re most interested in. Build your network with both accounting professionals and others in your targeted industry. Consider building a strong resume while you’re still in school. Relevant school projects and internships can strengthen your resume and help you find contacts who will help you in your job search.¹⁴

After you find your dream job, don’t forget your professional development. Throughout your career, engage in continuing education opportunities and stay up to date on industry trends.¹⁴

An Online Master of Accounting from William & Mary will prepare you for senior-level financial leadership roles across a wide range of industries—from corporate finance and public accounting to nonprofit and government sectors. You’ll learn from accomplished faculty who are leaders in their fields, bringing real-world experience and insights into every course. Designed for working professionals, our flexible online format allows you to balance your education with your career, family, and other priorities—without compromising on quality.

Our program is built to support your goals, so schedule a call with one of our admissions outreach advisors today to apply.