In today’s global job market, having just one qualification isn’t always enough. While ACCA is a globally respected professional credential, combining it with a higher academic degree like an MBA, MSc, or Masters in FinTech can significantly elevate your career. But how do you know if it’s the right choice for you? This guide will answer your most pressing questions.
Blending ACCA with a higher degree offers both practical and strategic advantages. It can help differentiate you from other candidates in a saturated job market and give you leadership skills beyond accounting.
Key Benefits:
Enhanced Career Opportunities: Gain access to C-suite roles like CFO, Finance Manager, or Director of Strategy.
Stronger Profile for Global Jobs: ACCA is recognized in 180+ countries. Add a degree and your international appeal grows.
Academic + Professional Depth: Get real-world accounting skills and theoretical business frameworks in one go.
Visa and Immigration Support: Countries like Canada and Australia favor profiles with both academic and professional credentials.
Higher Starting Salaries: Degree + ACCA profiles often command better compensation packages.
Which Higher Degrees Complement ACCA?
Choosing the right degree is essential. The goal is to pick a program that complements the technical depth of ACCA with broader, strategic or emerging market skills.
Best Degrees to Combine with ACCA:
MBA (Finance, Strategy, Global Business) – Ideal for leadership and management roles.
MSc in Accounting or Finance – Deepens your subject matter expertise.
Masters in Data Analytics / FinTech – Future-proof your skills in data-led finance roles.
Masters in Law / LLM (Corporate/Taxation) – Great for compliance, audit, and regulatory careers.
CFA + ACCA – Perfect for investment, equity analysis, and portfolio management careers.
Are There Integrated Programs Combining ACCA with Higher Degrees?
Yes! Many global universities offer dual programs that allow you to pursue ACCA and a degree at the same time, often with overlapping coursework and recognized credits.
Notable ACCA-University Tie-ups:
Oxford Brookes University: BSc in Applied Accounting (available to ACCA students after passing exams + submitting a project).
University of London: MSc in Professional Accountancy (integrated with ACCA Strategic Professional exams).
University Canada West (UCW): MBA pathway with ACCA exemptions.
LSBF and other institutions: Executive MBA + ACCA bundled programs (mostly online).
These programs save time, reduce cost, and streamline academic effort.
What About Exemptions?
One of the biggest perks of combining a degree with ACCA is the exemptions you can earn, helping you skip redundant topics and fast-track your qualification.
MBA (Finance): Can get up to 9 exemptions (Applied Knowledge & Applied Skills level).
CA or BCom backgrounds: May already have exemptions, so higher degree + ACCA can overlap strategically.
Check ACCA’s Exemption Calculator: Always verify based on your university and course at exemptions.accaglobal.com
How Does This Combination Impact Career Prospects?
Adding a postgraduate degree to your ACCA credential is a proven career accelerator. It shows employers that you’re not only technically strong but also think at a strategic level.
Career Benefits:
Broader Roles: Strategy Consultant, Financial Analyst, CFO, Risk Manager.
Global Employers: MNCs prefer dual-qualified candidates for roles across regions.
Public Sector Advantage: Many government roles and international organizations require or prefer a degree along with certifications.
Entrepreneurship: ACCA helps you handle numbers, and a degree helps you build the business.
When Is the Right Time to Pursue a Higher Degree with ACCA?
Timing matters when combining two demanding academic paths. Here’s how you should plan based on your current situation.
While Doing ACCA: Ideal for online or part-time degree programs that align with your exam pace.
After Finishing Skills Level (Paper 9): Gives you strong fundamentals before jumping into a Master’s.
After Completing ACCA: Many choose to do an MBA once they’ve gained work experience.
With Work Experience (Executive MBA): Best for those with 3–5 years of work looking to move into leadership.
Final Thoughts
Combining ACCA with a higher degree isn’t for everyone—but if you’re looking to fast-track your way into leadership roles, work overseas, or build a business of your own, this dual approach can give you the edge.
Whether you want to work in global finance, consulting, FinTech, or corporate leadership, this combination opens doors you may not reach with just one credential.
IKKA Classes Can Help You Plan the Right Path
At IKKA Classes, we help students not only clear ACCA with confidence but also plan their academic journey in a way that aligns with global career goals. If you’re unsure whether to pursue a degree now or later—or which program will get you the best ROI—talk to our experts today by filling contact form.
Frequently Asked Questions About Higher Degree With ACCA
Yes, it is possible to pursue both simultaneously, especially if you choose a flexible or online MBA program. However, time management is crucial. Many students prefer to complete the Applied Skills level of ACCA before starting an MBA to build a solid foundation.
Both have unique strengths. ACCA is a professional qualification with global industry recognition, especially in accounting, audit, and finance roles. A Master’s degree provides academic depth and strategic thinking skills. When combined, they offer maximum career flexibility and higher leadership potential.