In the present competitive world, many professionals are interested in the best qualifications to excel in their careers. ACCA is a leading qualification. I am sure, you have heard of it, right? Especially if you are looking for a career in accounting or finance. But many students, even working professionals, often ask one common question-is ACCA equivalent to master degree?
If you have the same question then you are in the right place, in this blog, in this blog, we’ll answer it in simple and clear words. We will also understand what ACCA is, and what values it holds in this world.
Table of Contents
What is ACCA?
Well, the full form of ACCA is Association of chartered certified Accountants. You probably already knew that, right? It’s a global course for professional accountant. In this course you will learn about audit, taxation, management accounting, and much more.
Here are some quick facts:
- ACCA is based in United Kingdom
- There are 2,40,000 working professionals who are the members.
- More than 5,00,000 students are enrolled.
- The course includes 13 exams and 3 years of practical work experience.
What is a Master’s Degree?
A Master’s degree is awarded by universities after you complete your Bachelor’s degree.
Some examples are:
- M.Com (Master of Commerce)
- MBA (Master of Business Administration)
- M.Sc. in Accounting or Finance
A master degree takes 2 years to complete and is more focused on academic base.
ACCA vs. Master’s Degree – Main Differences
Let’s look at this table for knowing some main difference between ACCA and a Master’s degree.
| Point | ACCA | Master’s Degree |
| Type | Professional Qualification | Academic Qualification |
| Focus | Practical skills, real-world finance | Theory, research, and academic study |
| Duration | 2 to 3 years (can vary) | 1 to 2 years |
| Recognition | Global, mostly in accounting firms | Depends on the university and country |
| Cost | Can be more affordable | Depends on universities |
| Entry Requirements | Flexible (even after 12th in some cases) | After Bachelor’s degree |
Is ACCA Equivalent to a Master’s Degree?
The answer depends on what you mean by “equivalent
1. In Terms of Knowledge and Skill
Yes, ACCA is at the same level of difficulty and learning as a Master’s degree. In fact, ACCA can be more difficult. It also provides practical knowledge and focuses on real business problems.
The Big Four firms in India often value ACCA even more than a Master’s degree
2. In Terms of Education Framework
In the United Kingdom, ACCA is considered at level 7 on the regulated qualification framework. Even master degree is also at level 7. So, in that sense, ACCA is academically equivalent to a Master’s degree.
But remember it is professional qualification not an academic qualification.
3. In Terms of University Recognition
Some universities in India offer ACCA member to take admission directly into postgraduate programs like MBA. In fact, ACCA body has entered into an understanding of memorandum with various universities to offer dual qualifications
For example:
- ACCA + Oxford Brookes University = B.Sc. in Applied Accounting
- ACCA + University of London = M.Sc. in Professional Accountancy
These programs help students to get a degree plus ACCA qualification at the same time.
Global Recognition of ACCA
ACCA is recognised all over the world, especially in:
- United Kingdom
- European countries
- Middle East
- Singapore
- Malaysia
- India
- Pakistan
- Africa
However, in some countries like the USA or Canada, ACCA is more popular. Still, ACCA is growing internationally and is accepted by many international companies like:
- PwC
- Deloitte
- KPMG
- EY
- Grant Thornton
- BDO
Can ACCA Get You a Job Like a Master’s Degree?
Yes, why not. ACCA degree makes more employable in India even in any countries of the word.
You can easily get a job in following areas
- Accounting
- Audit
- Finance
- Taxation
- Internal control
- Financial reporting
Big employers treat ACCA as better qualification than a master degree. ACCA members are more ready to work professionals with both knowledge and ethics.
Get More Details Face to Face ACCA Classes in Pune & ACCA Online Classes
Advantages of ACCA Over a Master’s Degree
- Flexible learning – You can study as per your time.
- Global recognition – You get global recognition over the world.
- Strong job opportunities – Very High demand in MNCs companies.
- Professional status – You become a chartered certified accountant.
- Affordable – In many countries, it is more affordable than a university Master’s program.
Disadvantages of ACCA Compared to a Master’s Degree
- Not academic – this is not an academic qualification rather a professional qualification If you want to become a university professor or researcher, then it would not be enough.
- Not enough in some countries – In the USA, local qualifications are more acceptable than a global qualification like this one.
- Takes time and effort – ACCA exams are very tough and require hard work.
Final Verdict – Which is Better?
There is no clear answer. It very much depends on your career goals and personal preferences.
Choose ACCA if:
- You want to be called as an accountant or auditor.
- You want to work in finance sector or with multinational firms.
- You desire for an international qualification.
- You require practical knowledge, job-ready skills.
Choose Master’s Degree if:
- You want to teach or research.
- You want to study more theory not interested in practical knowledge.
- You are targeting government jobs that require a degree.
Some smart students even do both, like ACCA + MBA, or ACCA + M.Com. This gives them both Practical Knowledge and skills.
Conclusion
So, is ACCA equivalent to a Master’s degree?
The answer is yes, in terms of Knowledge level and a recognition over the world, in fact ACCA is considered equivalent to a Master’s degree in the UK and many European countries. And another answer is no, in terms of academic qualification, it is a professional qualification, this certification is not given by a university.
But at the last, ACCA is a globally respected qualification and a powerful certification that can help you rise to the top in your company and career. ACCA is a great choice if you truly want to work in the finance or accounting sector.
Still confused? Just remember this simple idea:
ACCA = Master’s level, but not a Master’s degree.
Let your goals decide what’s best for you.
Reference
- ACCA Global Official Site – Course Structure & Global Recognition-https://www.accaglobal.com/gb/en/qualifications/glance/acca/overview.html
- UK Government – Qualification Levels (Level 7 = Master’s level)- https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
- University of London – MSc in Professional Accountancy (in collaboration with ACCA)- https://london.ac.uk/courses/professional-accountancy
Get More Details Face to Face ACCA Classes in Pune & ACCA Online Classes
