MACC or MBA before PhD?

Hi seseoppa.

Given your situation, I agree with your course of action. However, do you have a general idea of what sort of topic (or at least subject) within IS you would like to research? If you do, it may be prudent to consider Masters programs outside of business schools in disciplines related to IS/the specific topic you wish to study. Generally speaking, you will find that most of these programs (this is especially true in Europe) provide a more academically oriented approach to study. For example, compulsory courses in research methods and methodology are the norm, in which case there will be a dissertation requirement. If you plan your dissertation carefully (e.g. going beyond a literature review and adding a fieldwork component) you could use this as an avenue to publish your work, the benefits of which are clearly apparent.

You could also look at a couple of Canadian business schools (Sauder and Queen's), where their MSc programs are effectively bridges to doctoral programs. In this case, you could immediately specialize in MIS (rather than a related discipline), with the benefit of simultaneously engaging with business scholars and developing your own research skills.

Pursuing a more practical course such as an MBA or MAcc has its advantages as well, especially if you can get into a top school and get those letters you need from recognized faculty. I can't say which is better for you as it depends on (amongst other things) the school and curriculum, but stripped of context I'd say they're more or less equal qualifications in the eyes of an admissions committee. In doctoral programs focusing on applied research, an MBA/MAcc coupled with your work experience could prove beneficial as well. As you said, you'll also gain a broader perspective on other business fields. However, what you gain in breadth you may lose in depth. If you can supplement your study with some research experience, that will be extremely useful.

My advice is to decide on how you want to set yourself up for admission. Also if you can, narrow down your research path now at the very least to scholarly or applied research, which will in turn help you choose schools which suit you best. If you want to highlight your scholarly potential, you may wish to consider a specialized Master. If you're going for a more practical approach to research, go for the MBA/MAcc and do whatever you can to get research experience along the way.