Advice on Chicago MS in Accountancy Programs

Question

I applied to a few programs around the country. But since I was an econ undergrad major and applied late in the process, my options were limited. Most likely I will be staying in Chicago to get my degree.

About me:

Graduated with an Econ degree from the University of Michigan with a 3.0 (not good, I know, if only I had put in a little more effort)

Took 4 accounting classes at DePaul over the last fall and summer semesters and got a 4.0. 

Worked at a big law firm for 2 years and not interested in pursuing law, hence my interest in an M.S.A. program.

Scored a 710 on the GMAT

So here is the question that I would love to get some advice on from people who are involved in public accounting in Chicago and are familiar with the programs or graduates. What program would you recommend? 

1) Loyola Chicago 
2) DePaul University 
3) University of Illinois-Chicago.

I want to work for a Big Four firm.

Thanks for any replies. I would really appreciate some insight.

Hjort · Answer

Another possibility to consider is UIUC's MSA in Tax that is offered in Chicago. https://www.business.uiuc.edu/mst/default.html

Wolverine1999 · Answer

That program is for tax professionals with 2-3 years of tax experience. Thanks for the thought though. I don't want to do a tax program anyhow.

Hjort · Answer

How about Northern Illinois?

Wolverine1999 · Answer

I don't meet some of there accounting prerequisites. Basically, I don't have Intermediate I and II, which many top schools require. I also applied to George Washington, USC (fingers crossed), San Diego State, and I'm about to get apps out to Iowa and Florida State.

I'd rather go to a school downtown than in crappy DeKaulb. Have you been there? It would be like torture. All my friends being an hour away in the city and I can't hang out without driving. I'm all about sacrificing for the good of the cause, but it's still Northern Illinois.

limitlesssky · Answer

wolverine, if you go by rankings then university of illinois chicago would be a good choice.

Wolverine1999 · Answer

Yeah, that's what I figured. Plus it is cheaper than the others with in-state tuition. Thanks, I was hoping somebody that went to one of these schools could share their experience too.

Wolverine1999 · Answer

I got in USC, which was by far my #1 choice. So the question of Chicago schools is inconsequential. L.A. here I come.

Adil · Answer

Advice from a Big 4 Manager: Michigan Ann Arbor is really strong accounting school.

Hampster · Answer

I've always been under the impression that accounting's not like law or ibanking with their emphasis on pedigree/prestige.

Advice on Chicago MS in Accountancy Programs

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