In the world of accounting and finance, two qualifications dominate professional discussions: the Associate of Chartered Certified Accountants(ACCA) and a Master’s degree. Many students and professionals in Mauritius keep thinking about that one question that is: Is ACCA higher than a Master’s degree in Mauritius?
This question is important for those who are planning their career path in finance, accounting, and business. In this article, you will know the difference between the ACCA qualification in Mauritius and a traditional Master’s degree, compare their depth, industry value, and career scope, and analyze whether ACCA is higher than a Master’s degree in Mauritius in terms of professional recognition and career returns.
Knowing about ACCA and master’s degrees
It’s critical to comprehend the meaning of each qualification before making any comparisons.
Mauritius ACCA qualification
The UK-based Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) curriculum is a worldwide recognized professional qualification. Accounting, auditing, financial management, and corporate ethics are its main areas of emphasis. A person can become a Chartered Certified Accountant by completing the ACCA, which shows that they have high technical and strategic accounting ability.
A master’s degree
A master’s degree is a type of academic credential offered by universities, such as an MBA or a Master’s in Accounting in Mauritius. It combines theoretical and applied knowledge through research-based or course-based learning.
Therefore, ACCA is a professional credential designed to improve practical accounting skills, whereas a master’s degree is academic.
ACCA higher than a Master’s degree in Mauritius : Scope and Depth
When comparing ACCA vs Masters degree in Mauritius, the distinction lies in specialization and recognition.
Academic vs Professional Nature
A master’s degree aims to develop research abilities and theoretical understanding of finance and management
ACCA, on the other hand, builds hands-on professional accounting skills required in the global workplace.
Globally recognized
The ACCA qualification in Mauritius enjoys international recognition across 180+ countries. An ACCA-certified professional can work easily in the UK, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
In contrast to that, a Master’s degree might hold limited recognition, depending on the awarding university. Therefore, in ACCA vs Master’s degree in Mauritius, the former is often regarded as more global and career-oriented.
Is ACCA actually higher than a masters Degree in Mauritius?
Now, let’s address the big question directly: Is ACCA higher than a Master’s degree in Mauritius?
Levels of Qualification
In terms of the educational frameworks’ levels
The full ACCA qualification in Mauritius is considered equivalent to a Master’s degree under many qualification comparison charts, such as European or UK frameworks. However, the ACCA is not only technically a higher-level qualification but a different type. It is a professional credential, not an academic one.
In other words, ACCA is not higher in level, but is often more valuable professionally, especially for accounting roles and international career mobility.
Why does ACCA hold more value than Masters degree?
Although both qualifications are prestigious, there are several reasons why many professionals claim that ACCA is higher than a master’s degree in Mauritius in practical terms.
Global Recognition
The ACCA recognition in Mauritius offers students the opportunity to work abroad without qualifying. Employers in countries such as the UK, Singapore, and South Africa value ACCA holders as competent and internationally trained finance professionals.
Industry Relevance
Unlike many theoretical master’s programs, ACCA evolves with global accounting standards. Its topics align with IFRS, taxation, audit, and ethics changes, making sure professionals stay relevant. This makes ACCA higher than a Master’s degree in Mauritius when it comes to job readiness and applied expertise.
Better career prospects
ACCA qualified candidates enjoy the wider ACCA career opportunities in Mauritius, including roles such as:
- Tax consultant
- Audit manager
- Financial controller
- Audit manager
These roles often come with higher salaries compared to Master’s degree holders who lack a professional qualification.
Employer Preference
Many employers prefer ACCA candidates because they possess both technical and practical accounting proficiency. In Mauritius, top accounting firms often list ACCA as a preferred requirement over postgraduate degrees.
Flexibility and Accessibility
Unlike a master’s program, ACCA can be pursued while working. This flexible structure allows students to gain work experience while qualifying for something that strengthens career progression and practical understanding.
Global Mobility
With the ACCA qualification in Mauritius, professionals can migrate, work remotely, or join international organizations easily, given the qualification’s universal recognition.
These advantages collectively strengthen the argument that, in practical and career terms, ACCA is higher than a Master’s degree in Mauritius.
Comparison of ACCA vs MBA in Mauritius
A common variation of this concern is ACCA vs MBA Mauritius. While both have strong career potential, they serve different goals.
MBA focuses on leadership, business strategy, and management across industries.
ACCA: Specializes in professional accounting, taxation, and audit expertise.
Suppose you aim to build a career as a finance manager, auditor, or accountant. ACCA often delivers deeper technical accounting knowledge than an MBA. However, if you aspire to transition into executive management or entrepreneurship, the MBA might be more suitable. Still, in terms of accounting mastery, ACCA vs Masters degree in Mauritius tilts in favor of ACCA.
The Job Market Perspective
Demand in Mauritius
Mauritius has a strong financial services sector that values ACCA trained professional. Many forms prefer candidates with an ACCA background due to their practical knowledge and global qualification standards
ACCA salary in Mauritius
Generally, ACCA salaries in Mauritius are competitive and higher than those of those holding only a master’s degree in accounting. Entry-level ACCA affiliates can expect to earn better MUR 30,000 to MUR 50,000 monthly, while experienced members may earn above MUR 100,000 per month, depending on tier roles and firm size
Best Accounting Qualification in Mauritius
Students often research the best accounting qualification in Mauritius, and ACCA consistently ranks at the top of it. It is not only accepted by major employers but also by the government, finance, and education institutions.
Compared to other accounting courses in Mauritius, ACCA offers a flexible learning path, global networking, and practical business insights that outperform traditional academic routes.
Conclusion
In summary, is ACCA higher than a Master’s degree in Mauritius? Technically, no, ACCA and masters degree are on equal qualification levels. However, in practical, professional, and global terms, ACCA is often considered of high value. The ACCA qualification in Mauritius opens more international doors, provides better salary benchmarks, and makes certain a direct link to the accounting profession. Meanwhile, a master’s degree offers broader theoretical and managerial insights but lacks the same international employability as ACCA. In the need your decision between ACCA vs Masters degree in Mauritius should depend on your career goals. Choose ACCA if you want a professional, globally recognized accounting career. Make a selection of Master’s if you aim to pursue research, academia, or management positions. However, for the ambitious accounting professionals, the evidence suggests ACCA is indeed higher than a Master’s degree in Mauritius in practical value
Frequently asked questions
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Is the ACCA equivalent to a Master’s degree?
Academically, ACCA is often considered equivalent to a Master’s degree in level, but it’s a professional qualification rather than an academic one.
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How long does it take to complete ACCA in Mauritius?
It usually takes around 3–4 years depending on exemptions and exam schedules.
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What is the average ACCA salary in Mauritius?
An ACCA salary in Mauritius ranges from MUR 30,000 for entry-level roles to over MUR 100,000 for senior positions.
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Can I do a Master’s after ACCA?
Yes. Many international universities offer fast-track Master’s programs to ACCA members, often requiring only a dissertation.
