Balancing Work and Study: Part-Time vs. Full-Time MAcc Options

Pursuing a Master of Accounting (MAcc) degree is a significant step toward advancing your career in accounting and finance. However, students must first decide whether to enroll in a part-time or full-time MAcc program.

Choosing the Right MAcc Path

Both MAcc options have unique benefits and drawbacks, making it essential to assess which path aligns best with your professional and personal commitments. To make the most informed decision, delve in below to the key differences between part-time and full-time degree programs as we outline their advantages, challenges, and suitability for various career and lifestyle goals.

Understanding the Differences: Part-Time vs. Full-Time MAcc Programs

Part-Time MAcc Programs

Part-time MAcc programs are designed for working professionals who want to continue earning an income while pursuing their degree. These programs offer flexible schedules that may include evening and weekend classes as well as online learning options. They typically take two years or more to complete, depending on the student’s pace.

Full-Time MAcc Programs

Full-time MAcc programs, on the other hand, are immersive and intensive. They usually take one to two years to complete and require a full-time commitment to coursework and academic responsibilities. These programs are best suited for individuals who can dedicate their time exclusively to education without the constraints of a full-time job.

Advantages and Challenges of Part-Time MAcc Programs

Advantages:

• Reduced academic intensity – Spreading coursework over a longer duration allows students to manage their academic workload more effectively.
• Flexibility to maintain a full-time job while studying – One of the biggest benefits of a part-time MAcc program is that students can continue working while completing their degree. These flexible accounting degrees allow them to gain practical experience and keep their career on track.
• Immediately apply knowledge at work – Concepts learned in class can be applied directly to workplace scenarios, reinforcing understanding and providing real-world context.
• Lower financial strain due to steady income – Since part-time students maintain their jobs, they have a continuous income stream — reducing the need for student loans and easing financial stress. And because students spread tuition payments over a longer period, the financial burden is less concentrated compared to full-time programs.
• Potential employer sponsorship opportunities – Some employers offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing part-time education to help offset costs.

Challenges:

• Longer duration to earn your degree – Part-time programs take longer (up to several years) to complete, which may delay career advancements that require a master’s degree.
• Potential for burnout balancing work and study – Juggling job responsibilities, coursework, and personal commitments can be overwhelming, thus increasing the risk of burnout or affecting academic performance. 
• Potential for career stagnation – While working and studying simultaneously, career progression may slow compared to peers who complete their degree faster.
• Course availability constraints – Some courses may only be offered at specific times, making scheduling more difficult for working professionals.

Advantages and Challenges of Full-Time MAcc Programs

Advantages:

• Faster degree completion – Full-time students can earn their degree in one to two years, accelerating their path to CPA eligibility or career advancement.
• Quickly advance to higher-level accounting roles – Completing a full-time MAcc program in a shorter period enables graduates to enter the job market sooner and pursue senior positions more quickly.
• Focus entirely on studies without work distractions – A full-time schedule allows students to fully engage with coursework, faculty, and classmates. Without the pressures of a job, full-time students can concentrate fully on excelling in their studies, leading to a richer academic experience and deeper understanding of the material. 
• Access to networking and internship opportunities – Many full-time programs offer on-campus recruitment events, career fairs, and internship opportunities that provide valuable professional connections and experience. Full-time students may also take advantage of internships that provide valuable hands-on experience and job placement prospects.

Challenges:

• Intensive workload – The accelerated pace of coursework can be challenging and requires strong time management skills.
• Significant financial commitment – Full-time students often rely on savings, student loans, or scholarships to fund their education, which may make the financial burden heavier. Additionally, tuition must be paid over a shorter period, requiring a larger financial investment upfront.
• Limited opportunity to gain work experience during the program – Since full-time students are not working full time, they may fail to benefit from gaining professional experience during their studies, which could impact job prospects post-graduation. This also means full-time students often forgo employment or reduce work hours; spending one to two years in school full time means missing out on work experience and potential earnings during that period.
• Job search pressure – Graduates must secure employment quickly after completing the program, as they may not have the advantage of continuous work experience like part-time students.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Part-Time and Full-Time Options

When deciding which MAcc program suits you best, also consider your:

• Current employment status – Those already working in accounting or finance may benefit from a part-time program, while those looking to enter the field might prefer a full-time approach.
• Financial situation – Individuals with limited savings or financial support might find a part-time program more feasible. Those who can afford full-time tuition may benefit from completing the degree faster.
• Career goals and urgency – If immediate career advancement or CPA eligibility is a priority, a full-time program might be the better choice.
• Work-life balance preferences – Those who prefer a steady, less intense workload may choose part-time, whereas those who thrive in fast-paced academic environments may prefer full-time.
• Networking and campus involvement – Full-time programs provide greater access to networking opportunities, which can be crucial for career growth.
• Program structure and course offerings – Some schools offer flexible scheduling options that make part-time study more manageable, while others may have cohort-based full-time programs that foster a strong sense of community.

No matter which degree route you choose, it’s important to:

• Set clear goals and priorities – Determine whether your primary objective is to advance quickly in your career or gain practical experience while studying.
• Leverage campus and online resources – Explore available support systems — including career counseling, networking events, and online learning tools.
• Stay organized and manage time effectively – Time management is critical for both part-time and full-time college student success while balancing other commitments.

Making the Most of Your MAcc Journey

Regardless of whether you choose a part-time or full-time MAcc program, making the most of the experience is key to college student success — within and beyond the classroom. Engage with faculty, build a strong professional network, take advantage of internship opportunities, and continuously apply what you learn to real-world situations. By carefully evaluating your career goals, financial situation, and personal responsibilities, you can make an informed decision that sets you on the path to success in accounting.

Looking to take the next step in your accounting career? Explore the MAcc program at Carson-Newman University, where you can choose a flexible accounting degree that fits your work-life balance and career goals. The integrated curriculum focuses on core disciplines in the accounting realm alongside the necessary knowledge to land roles in public or private accounting. As a Christian university, we live out our mission and values through education built on a biblical worldview that emphasizes both personal and professional ethics. No matter if you’re considering part time or full time, start planning your future and unlock your potential in the accounting field: Request more information or apply today!