The online Master of Business Administration (MBA) with track in Accounting program from Longwood University prepares students with expertise that extends far beyond numbers, equipping them with advanced financial knowledge and a business-wide perspective. Through the MBA core curriculum, students earn the professional benefits of an MBA.
They gain higher earning potential, enhanced credibility and a powerful network and acquire specialized accounting skills crucial for leadership roles. This combination of business acumen and accounting proficiency readies graduates to excel in various high-impact careers that drive financial integrity and strategic growth within organizations.
Careers for MBA in Accounting Graduates
Graduates of Longwood University’s online MBA Accounting program can pursue careers as accountants, tax managers, auditors and controllers — among other roles. The following are five roles that graduates can pursue, with annual salary information current as of January 2025.
- Accountant: $79,880
An accountant maintains and analyzes financial records, tracking income, expenses and liabilities for individuals or businesses. Accountants are pivotal in financial decision-making, project planning, cost analysis and auditing.
Specializations within accounting include tax preparation, financial consulting and auditing. Some accountants pursue certifications like Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA) or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) to expand their expertise and career opportunities. They have the following key responsibilities:
- conducting detailed financial analyses, ensuring accuracy in records and compliance with laws
- preparing and reviewing financial statements, tax documents and reports for regulatory compliance
- performing tax planning and preparation, minimizing liabilities for clients and businesses
- Finance Manager: $156,100
Finance managers maintain and enhance an organization’s financial health. They create detailed financial reports, oversee investment activities and develop plans to meet both immediate and long-term financial objectives. By closely monitoring financial data, finance managers advise executive leadership teams on strategic spending and guide organizations through complex financial conditions and scenarios.
In larger organizations, finance managers may supervise departments responsible for accounting, payroll and budgeting. They coordinate efforts across teams to ensure financial operations align with organizational goals. Therefore, this role requires analytical skill and strategic foresight, as finance managers assess market trends, forecast potential financial outcomes and advise on profitable investment opportunities. Their key responsibilities include the following:
- preparing comprehensive financial statements and reports to track organizational progress
- monitoring financial details to ensure compliance with legal standards and identify savings
- assessing market trends and advising on investments to drive strategic growth and stability
- Tax Manager: $124,048
A tax manager ensures organizations and individuals comply with tax laws at local, state and federal levels. This role requires strategic planning, leadership and a keen understanding of tax legislation and risk management. The salary figure fluctuates frequently.
Tax managers guide teams and support businesses through financial transitions, such as mergers or public offerings, by developing tax-efficient strategies that align with business goals. Their main responsibilities include the following:
- leading the development of tax strategies, including planning for mergers, acquisitions and IPOs
- establishing compliance systems to avoid audit risks and penalties and adhere to tax laws
- advising senior management on complex tax issues, communicating the implications of tax decisions
- Auditor: $79,880
Auditors ensure the integrity of financial statements by verifying records for accuracy and compliance. They identify risks, optimize financial processes and maintain compliance with laws and regulations.
Auditors may specialize in assurance services or risk management and often leverage technology to focus on in-depth analysis rather than routine tasks, enabling them to detect fraud and optimize financial practices. Their primary responsibilities include the following:
- examining and verifying the accuracy of financial statements to ensure regulatory compliance
- reviewing accounting systems for fraud detection, efficiency and adherence to standards
- conducting risk assessments and recommending improvements for operational efficiency
- Controller: $115,029
Controllers oversee an organization’s financial reporting and forecasting, managing income statements, balance sheets and financial projections. They ensure all financial data aligns with regulatory standards and supports the organization’s strategic goals. The salary figure fluctuates frequently.
Controllers often supervise teams across accounting, auditing and budgeting, creating a cohesive financial strategy that balances accuracy, regulatory compliance and profitability. Their key responsibilities include the following:
- overseeing the preparation of financial documents like income statements and balance sheets, forecasting the financial position
- monitoring cash flow and internal controls, safeguarding the organization’s financial health
- serving as the primary audit liaison, implementing feedback and coordinating with external auditors
Pursue Accounting Leadership With a Master of Business Administration Degree in Accounting
For those aiming to advance in business management or accounting, an MBA in accounting offers the expertise and leadership skills needed for influential roles. Longwood University’s online MBA Accounting program allows students to deepen their knowledge in financial analysis, auditing and taxation while maintaining their professional careers. This program combines interactive coursework with practical projects, helping students build skills to analyze financial data, assess performance and guide strategic decisions.
The MBA curriculum covers key areas such as economics, finance, marketing and management, providing a holistic business perspective that complements advanced accounting knowledge. This comprehensive blend of practical and strategic learning positions graduates for success in high impact careers that contribute to financial integrity and organizational growth.
Learn more about Longwood University’s online Master of Business Administration with track in Accounting program.
