A Big Decision
Joanna Grooms ’23 worked in finance for two decades before enrolling in the Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi online Master of Accountancy program. She began researching master’s degrees because she was ready to make career progression more of a priority.
“I have three very active young girls between the ages of eight and thirteen,” she said. “I sent my husband back for his master’s degree when our kids were little and took on the family duties. Now, it was my turn. I was at a point where I was ready to push harder. I wanted to be able to get this master’s to advance in my career and to become eligible for CPA examination.”
Grooms sought an accredited and affordable program because she believed those factors would increase the probability of a return on her investment.
“I wanted something that my place of work would recognize,” she explained. “Having an accredited business school degree is worth so much. Plenty of programs out there will get you the degree, but they’re not as respected.”
The cost of the TAMU-CC master’s in accountancy program was also attractive.
“It is very affordable for a working professional,” Grooms said. “I was interested in a program that wouldn’t break the bank. As an accountant, I’m always looking at the bottom line: What’s my return on investment?”
Realizing that the Texas A&M-Corpus Christi online Master of Accountancy program offered all of these benefits, she took on the challenge and added studying to her busy schedule.
An Enlightening Journey
Once enrolled, Grooms continued to work full time while handling her household responsibilities. She was delighted with how the flexibility of asynchronous courses empowered her to create an achievable balance between her job, parenting and education.
“It took a lot of dedication to make sure I got my work done on time and that I got home in time to get online for school at night,” Grooms admitted.
Grooms was confident that her perseverance would pay off and she found great support from the TAMU-CC community.
“The professors and students were readily available,” she shared. “If you are stuck, it is easy to reach out and get an answer. If you’re having technology issues, all you have to do is get on the phone and there’s somebody to help you.”
A Big Pay-Off
Grooms’ dedication led to new achievements and the advanced courses helped her stand out at work.
“I did a huge career change right before I started this program,” she said. “I went from retail finance to accounting for a midstream oil company. There are different systems and terminology. This program has helped me overcome a lot of the obstacles I was running into when I first got hired.”
Since earning her graduate degree, Grooms’ upward mobility track has helped her achieve a new position: She is a senior accountant with Western Midstream, a Houston-area oil and gas company based in The Woodlands. Her exciting new role came with a pay increase and plenty of bonus potential. Plus, she now feels prepared to pursue CPA certification.
“I’ve already gotten a return on investment,” she said. “I definitely recommend this program.”
Pursue High-Level Finance Roles or CPA Certification
Prepare to make informed financial decisions for accounting firms and business enterprises with the 100% online Master of Accountancy program from Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. The curriculum is designed to build on your knowledge of accounting principles and business management skills through industry-relevant coursework and case studies.
In this AACSB-accredited master’s program, you will study auditing, taxation, and business strategy to gain expertise for a rewarding career in the oil, gas and energy industry, forensics, or information systems. Choose from a broad selection of business electives to specialize your degree. You can apply this affordable graduate program to the 150 hours required for the Uniform Certified Public Accountant Examination.
The online MAcc program will enable you to pursue roles such as:
• Certified Public Accountant
• Auditor
• Financial Analyst
• Corporate Controller
• Chief Financial Officer
Learn more about the online master’s in accountancy program.
TAMU-CC offers a range of business programs that can help you develop the up-to-date skills you need. View our graduate degree options and choose the online program that best aligns with your goals.
