Master in Professional Accounting Admissions Blog

Insider Information for Prospective Texas McCombs MPA Students

Author: biancagosser

Register: Join Us for a Traditional MPA Info Session

Join us for a traditional MPA info session! Gain valuable insights into our top-ranked traditional Master in Professional Accounting program. Learn about our curriculum, application process, and career outcomes, and explore the benefits of studying at the University of Texas at Austin

Register Here: tMPA Info Session

Wednesday, November 20, 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Zoom Webinar

Register: Join Us for Our Virtual MPA Panel Night

Join us for an evening of insight and connection at the MPA Panel Night! This event offers a unique opportunity to hear from Texas McCombs faculty, current students, and alumni. Learn about the program’s academic strengths, explore student experiences, and discover how an MPA can shape your career.

Register: MPA Panel Night

Thursday, November 14, 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Zoom Webinar

UT Austin Rises to No. 7 in U.S. News Rankings

The University of Texas at Austin has climbed to No. 7 among public universities in the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings. This achievement highlights UT’s commitment to academic excellence, with McCombs School of Business consistently recognized for its standout undergraduate and graduate programs. Notably, the Accounting specialty ranked No. 1, reflecting its leadership in accounting education. As UT Austin continues to excel, our students are poised for success in a rapidly evolving professional landscape.

Read more details here.

Interested in learning more? Attend an upcoming Master in Professional Accounting info session to explore how this top-ranked program can help shape your future.

Click HERE to view all upcoming events

The Study Abroad Experience – Prague

Katie Anderson, MPA Class of 2025

While in the MPA Prague study abroad program, I learned about Europe through my studies and travels. Between weekend trips across Europe with my peers, engaging classes, and program-planned excursions within Prague, the program was a fulfilling experience that I will cherish. As someone who had never been to Europe, I was nervous about the cultural adjustment. However, the UT and VŠE staff helped us get acclimated to our new environment and the time and effort that they put into this program was clear from the start.

Our courses were fascinating. In our classes taught by MPA faculty, we delved deeper into specialized accounting topics, and in our VŠE class, we simulated the early stages of starting a business in Europe from initial idea to pitch. Furthermore, the planned excursions in Prague gave us the opportunity to see unique sites in the Czech Republic. My personal favorite was our visit to Radio Free Europe, an international media organization with the mission of providing accurate news to countries without freedom of the press.

Unequivocally, my favorite part of the program was growing closer to my MPA peers. I bonded with people who had been in my classes for years but never had the opportunity to truly get to know. The entire group often made plans together and I gained a newfound appreciation for the community that we formed. I always knew I had someone with whom I could grab lunch, study, or explore Prague’s Old Town. These friendships enhanced my experience and made me feel more connected to the MPA program as a whole. After returning to the US, I quickly made plans to see my study-abroad friends and I can’t wait to have classes with them in the Fall.

Hook ‘em! 🤘

Katie Anderson, MPA Class of 2025

Turning the Page: Celebrating the MPA Class of 2024

On Saturday, May 11, 2024, the MPA Commencement Ceremony took place at Gregory Gym, transforming the well-known student fitness hub into a symbol of new beginnings. Professors, family, and friends gathered to celebrate the graduates.  

The 2024 MPA graduating class includes those from diverse backgrounds who worked tirelessly to earn their degrees. Among the graduates, Peter Gutierrez’s journey stands out as a testament to perseverance and reinvention. Formerly a high school math teacher, Peter decided to make a bold career transition and pursue his MPA. As he eagerly anticipates his next steps, including a summer study abroad in Prague and a  financial analyst role for Dell upon his return to Austin, Peter embodies the spirit of transformation and ambition that defines the MPA graduates. 

Hong Nguyen has a similarly inspiring graduation story. As a first-generation graduate, Hong’s MPA degree holds deep significance not just for her, but for her family. With her family by her side and the support of her peers in the Asian Business Student Association, Hong’s achievement symbolizes the fulfillment of a dream and the promise of a bright future. 

The MPA commencement speakers further highlighted the potential of the MPA graduating class. Professor Steven Kachelmeier noted that the program’s excellence echoes in every graduate’s journey and reflects their commitment to success and innovation. Dean Lillian Mills emphasized the graduates’ role as agents of change and progress while distinguished speaker Paul Knopp (BBA Accounting ‘81, MBA ’83) shared his journey from accounting student to CEO. Paul highlighted the pivotal role of accounting as well as mentorship and resilience in shaping his success. Through his heartfelt message, he encouraged graduates to embrace uncertainty, celebrate their achievements, and envision a future defined by purpose and impact. 

During the ceremony, MPA Program Faculty Director Kristina Zvinakis recognized students who demonstrated exceptional dedication and achievement while in the MPA program. Gracelynn Keener received the CPA Accounting Education Award in recognition of her mastery of accounting knowledge, while Zachary Sly and Krishan Gupta were honored as the outstanding integrated and traditional MPA students, respectively, in their graduating class.  

Prior to the graduates walking across the stage to have their names read and be recognized, Ally Rosmiller stepped forward as the student speaker. Her words conveyed a sense of camaraderie and shared triumph, and she urged her fellow graduates to embrace every victory, big or small. 

As the ceremony ended, the air was filled with a sense of accomplishment and anticipation. Each graduate stands at the threshold of a new chapter, armed with knowledge, resilience, and boundless potential. Today, they not only celebrate their achievements but also their capacity to shape the future and change the world. 

 Congratulations to the MPA graduating class of 2024! 

                 

 

Click here to learn more about starting your journey toward earning a Master in Professional Accounting degree at Texas McCombs.