There’s learning accounting, and then, there’s gaining a deep understanding of the wider implications of accounting in a way that sets you apart for the positions you really want.

The Graduate Accounting Programs at the Kelley School of Business on the IUPUI campus take the field of accounting one step farther than most accounting studies. In the +1 Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) Program, Moyosore Bada, BS’18, MSA’20, says she added a greater depth of knowledge to her bachelor’s degree.

“These MSA courses go deep to give you a greater understanding of accounting,” she said. “In class, we weren’t just doing textbook examples. The professors bring in accounting examples from their careers and have us solve the problems in class. It was all very practical, applicable learning.”

Like many accounting students, Moyo sought additional coursework to reach the 150 credit hours required to sit for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam. Rather than take several unrelated electives, she sought a deeper understanding of the field of accounting and a way to stand apart from other job candidates.

“The MSA Program is a really great way to push yourself forward,” she said. “You learn a lot more about this career, which gives you a better edge than a bachelor’s degree alone. You’re more qualified for the work ahead.”

Moyo moved seamlessly from her bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance into the +1 MSA by adding just one additional year to her studies.

“It was such a smooth process to move from undergraduate studies into the graduate accounting program,” she said.

In addition to preparing Moyo for a career in accounting, the program helped prepare her to study for the CPA, she says.

“This degree really prepares you for independent study and self-guided learning in a way that is different from an undergraduate degree,” said Moyo. “It was a great help as I prepared for the CPA exam, which requires a lot of self-discipline. I learned a lot of discipline from this program.”

As an international student originally from Nigeria, Moyo studied full time to complete the +1 MSA degree; however, part-time study is also available. During her graduate degree, Moyo worked as a research assistant to Angela Andrews, clinical assistant professor in accounting, which afforded her an even deeper view into accounting.

“As I researched and processed data, I gained a greater familiarity with the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website where I located data,” she says. “I became more familiar with company 10K filings and all the data available there.”

By combining her final year of undergraduate studies with her first year in the +1 MSA Program, Moyo completed two internships; something she wasn’t able to do during her undergraduate studies.

“The internships helped me learn the practical side of accounting,” she says. “And the program gave me an edge overall. When I told employers I was earning my master’s degree, it helped me to stand out.”

Moyo accepted a position as a staff accountant at ADESA, where she applies lessons from her degree each day. She says she appreciated attending classes and completing internships in downtown Indianapolis, blocks away from several potential employers and accounting firms.

“The Kelley School’s location at IUPUI is really advantageous – truly one of the best selling points for this program,” says Moyo. “It’s located downtown, where there are opportunities for jobs and internships every day. You sit in class just a mile from an employer that might have the job of your dreams.”