Removing Barriers

The Master of Accountancy (MAcc) program was established nearly seven years ago. Since that time, admission to the program has required the GRE or GMAT exams. The test score is weighed alongside the students’ grade point average (GPA) and other materials to determine their likelihood of success. Recently, the College decided to waive the GRE/GMAT requirement for MAcc applicants with an undergraduate GPA of 3.5 or higher.

Director of Graduate Studies Kristine McCarty noted that although the exam is a good way to gauge a student’s aptitude for graduate school, “this change allows applicants to spend more time focusing on preparation for the Certified Public Accountants (CPA) exam, rather than an entrance exam. Adding another test into the mix causes some undue stress,” said McCarty.

“Students are excited and relieved to hear about this change,” she said, adding that the change will reduce the financial burden on students who would have to pay around $250 to take the GMAT. Removing the entrance exam is becoming common for MAcc programs. “This change puts us more in line with competing schools, and we believe we will see increased interest from high-achieving students,” McCarty explained.

An entrance exam is still required for the other two graduate programs in the College, however. “It’s important for us to admit students who can be successful in our graduate programs.” McCarty said. Admitting a student who may not be successful could result in wasted time and funds, whereas the entrance exams help determine an applicant’s likelihood to succeed in a program. This is especially true for broader programs like the Master of Business Administration (MBA) where coursework is not focused on one specific content area, like it is with the MAcc. McCarty said. “For the MAcc program, the greatest predictor of success for an applicant is their performance in their prior accounting coursework. A 3.5 GPA certainly demonstrates success in that area.”

The hurdle of taking the exam in the other programs demonstrates students’ commitment. “It’s a richer experience for all students when everyone is committed,” said McCarty.