New data from the US Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) has revealed an increase in applications to Master of Accounting programmes.
The GMAC 2024 Application Trends Survey indicates that 72% of US Master of Accounting programmes reported higher application levels in 2024, compared with 43% in 2023.
This marks a five-year high in application growth for these programmes.
Only 2% of US Master of Accounting programmes reported stable application levels, while 26% experienced declines.
The survey highlights that Gen Z students show a preference for stable careers, such as accounting, over more volatile fields.
Association of International Certified Professional Accountants CEO of public accounting Susan Coffey stated: “The resurgence in applicant interest in master of accounting programmes is another encouraging sign for the accounting profession’s workforce development efforts. In today’s competitive talent landscape, efforts to attract new entrants to accounting remain a top priority.”
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By GlobalDataWhile 72% of Master of Accounting programmes reported increased applications, only 55% of US Master of Finance programmes saw similar growth.
A range of data sources provides insights into different student segments, from applicants to degree holders, though timeframes may not always align.
Undergraduate accounting enrolment rose by 12% in autumn 2024 compared to autumn 2023, adding 28,672 students, according to National Student Clearinghouse Research Center data.
However, there was a slight decline of 2.81% in accounting graduate student enrolment in autumn 2024, equating to approximately 740 students.
The GMAC 2024 Application Trends Survey gathered data from 297 business schools worldwide, representing 1,090 programmes. These programmes span 40 countries, including 37 US states and the District of Columbia.
