Master in Professional Accounting Admissions Blog

Insider Information for Prospective Texas McCombs MPA Students

Tag: accounting (page 1 of 4)

Texas McCombs MPA Students Selected for Prestigious FASB PTA Program

Cristina Kappmeyer, MPA ’25

Cristina Kappmeyer, MPA ’25

Ryann Wall, MPA expected Dec '25

Ryann Wall, MPA expected Dec ’25

The Financial Accounting Standards Board, which establishes accounting and financial reporting standards for U.S. companies, sponsors a one-year postgraduate technical assistant (PTA) program for recent accounting graduates interested in working at the intersection of accounting and standard setting. Annually, this prestigious program accepts six students each for its summer and winter cohorts. Two Texas McCombs MPA students – Cristina Kappmeyer (BBA ‘24, MPA ’25) and Ryann Wall (BBA ‘24, MPA expected December 2025) – were recently appointed as PTAs. Ryann will begin her PTA term in Winter 2026 and Cristina in Summer 2025.

The PTA program offers recent accounting graduates the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge conversations and research about topics that are top of mind for standard setters and leaders in practice. PTAs are chosen based on their academic aptitude as well as their communication and professional skills. Both MPA students credit the support of the Program, its faculty and alums in helping them stand out among the applicants. As Cristina notes, “It’s an incredible honor to be selected for the PTA program. I was inspired to pursue this opportunity after hearing about another MPA’s (Meredith Bullock ’22) meaningful experience in the role.”

The PTA program refines participants’ critical thinking skills and exposes them to the intricacies involved in accounting standard-setting not many accountants are privy to. As Ryann shared, “I am most looking forward to collaborating with experienced professionals, analyzing emerging accounting issues, and gaining insights that will shape my future career and the profession.”

As we always say, what starts here does change the world. Congratulations to our MPA PTAs!

To learn more about the Master in Professional Accounting program at Texas McCombs, click here

Submit Your MPA Application – Final Deadline is Approaching!

The final deadline for traditional MPA (U.S.) and MPA Bridge applications is just around the corner! Submit your application no later than 11:59 p.m. on May 6 to be considered for the 2025 incoming class. Additionally, all supplemental materials (traditional MPA / MPA Bridge) must be received no later than May 13. Applications will not be reviewed for a decision until all required materials have been received.

You can expect to receive an admissions decision approximately two weeks after application completion. Submit your application today!


Questions? Contact the MPA admissions team

 

REGISTER: Accounting++ The Jobs you Didn’t Know You Wanted

Join us for an exciting evening of Accounting++ The Jobs You Didn’t Know You Wanted. Wondering what type of jobs you can have with an accounting degree? Hear from panelists who have unique jobs and learn how their careers have evolved.

Don’t miss this chance to explore how the MPA program can shape your future!

Thursday, April 3, 2025
5:30 – 6:30 p.m. CT
Virtual – Zoom

REGISTER NOW!

Love and Accounting: A Match Made in MPA

At Texas McCombs, the MPA program is known for shaping careers—but for one couple, it also shaped their future together. In the fall of 2020, Daniella Peinovich (MPA ’21) and Wade Cope (MPA ’21) were randomly assigned to the same group in their Tax Research class. What started as a simple class project turned into something much bigger. Fast forward to today, and they’re engaged!

Their story is a reminder that the MPA program isn’t just about learning—it’s about building lifelong connections, both professional and personal. Happy Valentine’s Day! 💙📚💍

To learn more about the Master in Professional Accounting program at Texas McCombs, click here

REGISTER: Join the February 13 MPA Bridge Information Session!

Are you a current UT undergraduate looking to expand your career options? This program allows you to begin working towards a Master in Professional Accounting (MPA) while finishing your bachelor’s degree in your senior year—regardless of your major.

Join our upcoming virtual info session to discover how the MPA Bridge program can fast-track your path to success. You’ll hear all about the admissions process, curriculum, career prospects, and what life is like in the program.

REGISTER: THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13 – 5:00 PM CT

We look forward to meeting you soon!

Jasmin Blas-Mendieta

Jasmin Blas-Mendieta, MPA Senior Recruiting and Admissions Officer.

 

An International Student’s Perspective on the MPA Experience

As I reflect on my first semester in the Texas McCombs MPA program, the aroma of scallion pancake wafts through my small apartment. Upon arrival in Austin, I faced the daunting task of cooking for myself — something I had never done before. My first attempts were far from perfect; sometimes the food was burnt, other times it was raw and inedible. But through each trial and error, I learned and improved.

This culinary exploration is a microcosm of my academic experience. Initially, everything was new and challenging, from understanding new University systems to completing rigorous tasks and harmonizing cross-cultural interactions. However, the supportive environment provided by the MPA program has made all the difference. The excellent professors I’ve encountered have been patient guides, breaking down complex concepts into manageable pieces. Meanwhile, the MPA Program Office academic and career advisors have provided invaluable resources and support, always ready to lend a helping hand. My peers, caring and professional, created a collaborative atmosphere in which we learned from each other’s diverse perspectives.

After a few weeks in the program, I had a sudden realization that shook me to my core. Despite my background in accounting, I found myself struggling with unfamiliar concepts and financial and tax accounting systems. It was in this moment of vulnerability that I truly understood the value of my roots. The comfort of my home country’s familiar accounting practices, which I had taken for granted, now felt like a cherished foundation upon which I could build new knowledge. This epiphany ignited a dual passion within me: a renewed appreciation for my cultural heritage and a burning desire to excel in this new academic landscape.

As I take a bit of the crusty and crunchy pancake I’ve just made, I’m reminded of the purpose behind the 7,734 miles I journeyed from Taipei to Austin. The texture and flavor evoke memories of home and symbolize the gradual improvements I’ve made in my cooking and the satisfaction of creating something meaningful. My culinary journey mirrors my experience in the MPA program: through a bit of trial and error, the rigorous curriculum and supportive resources have provided the perfect opportunity for growth.

-Shawn Lee, MPA Class of 2025

REGISTER: Join the January 16 Traditional MPA Information Session!

Join our upcoming virtual information session to learn more about the traditional Master in Professional Accounting program. This info session will provide valuable insights into our top-ranked accounting program, including the MPA admissions process, curriculum, career outcomes, and the benefits of studying at the University of Texas at Austin. Don’t miss this chance to see how the Texas McCombs MPA program can help you achieve your professional goals!

REGISTER: THURSDAY, JANUARY 16 – 5:00 PM CT

We look forward to meeting you soon!

Jasmin Blas-Mendieta

Jasmin Blas-Mendieta, MPA Senior Recruiting and Admissions Officer.

 

MPA Tailgate Event: Texas vs Florida Football

The recent MPA tailgate was more than just pre-game fun—it was a testament to the camaraderie within the MPA community. One student shares their unique experience as a former University of Florida undergrad cheering for the Texas Longhorns while donning a Florida Gators jersey!

The MPA tailgate was a great bonding experience for students within the MPA program. It was great seeing my friends from different classes come together, wear burnt orange, and get excited for the Longhorns’ SEC matchup against the Gators. Many of us rooted for different teams throughout our undergrad, but this game meant much more to me since I did my undergrad at the University of Florida and was a photographer for the Florida Gators’ athletics program. When I showed up to the tailgate with a Texas Longhorns hat and Florida Gators jersey, my fellow MPA students made sure to get a good laugh, and it made for a lot of fun. This MPA community really thrives off of each other as we are all battle the stresses that come with a prestigious academic program together. I also made sure to fuel up with some catered Chick-fil-A.

As for advice I have for new/prospective students, prioritize and make time for friends and meet fellow students through social outings such as the MPA tailgate. Having friends in all of your classes will make you look forward to your 8 am classes, give you a sense of home away from home, and provide you with lifelong friends down the road. I am looking forward to what the next semester brings and hope we can all get together for a baseball or basketball outing.

-Craig Haas

Learn more about the Master in Professional Accounting program

MPA student at football game MPA students enjoying tailgate

MPA students at tailgate

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

The Traditional MPA Early Deadline Passed – What’s Next?

Congratulations! You completed your traditional MPA (tMPA) application by the November 1 early deadline! What happens next? 

The MPA Admissions Committee is beginning to review all completed* applications. We anticipate releasing early decisions for U.S. applications in mid-December. Early decisions for international applications will be released in mid- to late January. Your admissions decision will be posted on the Office of Graduate Admissions MyStatus portal, and you will receive a separate message from the Texas McCombs MPA program if you are accepted.

What should you do if your application is incomplete?

U.S. applicants: If you are still working on submitting your materials, you can expect to receive a decision approximately four to six weeks after your application is complete.*

International applicants: Aim to complete* your application no later than January 14 (final application deadline). Decisions will be released by late March/early April.

*All required materials must be received before an application will be reviewed for a decision. Be sure to check the status of your application in the McCombs application portal and in the Office of Graduate Admission’s MyStatus portal on a regular basis.

If you reported (optional) GMAT or GRE test scores or a future test date in the admissions application, we will hold on a decision until the official test scores are received from the testing agency. Please notify the MPA admissions team if your testing plans change after you submit your application.

You were admitted to another university, and the acceptance deadline is approaching, but you haven’t received a decision from the Texas McCombs MPA program. What should you do?

If you receive an admission offer from another university and need to respond to the offer before you receive a decision from us, please send us an email with the name of the university and the admission response deadline. Although we cannot guarantee an earlier admission decision, we will do our best to accommodate your request.

You are a Texas resident. How can you establish your residency status at UT Austin for tuition purposes?

If you are a Texas resident, you will be required to submit Residency Core Questions so that UT Austin can verify your residency. You are eligible to complete the questionnaire after submitting your online application. You do not need to wait for an admissions decision first. Additional information regarding Texas residency is available on the UT admissions website. Feel free to contact UT’s residency officer if you have questions regarding Texas residency.

Tip for tMPA U.S. applicants: Complete the residency questionnaire soon after submitting the admissions application so that your UT record is updated before the MPA program determines scholarship awards.


Note to MPA Bridge applicants: Admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis. Apply at any time until the May 6 application deadline!

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