Two Pathways. One Goal.
High-achieving NC State students can earn both a bachelor’s degree and the Master of Accounting (MAC) in less time through Poole College’s Accelerated Bachelor’s-to-Master’s (ABM) Program.
The ABM Program allows qualified undergraduate students to begin taking select graduate-level accounting courses while completing their bachelor’s degree. Through a structured, pre-approved plan of study, these courses may count toward both degrees—reducing time to completion while strengthening preparation for the accounting profession.
Poole College offers two ABM pathways, each designed to support students with different academic backgrounds, timelines, and levels of certainty about pursuing graduate study.
How the ABM Program Works
- Students may double-count up to 12 credit hours (four graduate-level courses) toward both the bachelor’s degree and the MAC.
- Graduate-level coursework is taken under a pre-approved plan of work developed with undergraduate accounting and MAC program leadership.
- Students receive individualized academic and career advising once admitted to the ABM Program.
Accelerated Pathway (3+1)
Who this pathway is for
The Accelerated Pathway is designed for students who:
- Are interested in accounting upon entry to Poole College of Management
- Enter NC State with substantial AP, IB or transfer credit
- Plan early and follow a structured course sequence
- Have a clear interest in completing both degrees as efficiently as possible
Key benefits
- Accelerated path to a graduate degree without extending time to completion
- Reduced overall cost through shared coursework and fewer enrolled semesters
- Greater flexibility during the MAC year for CPA exam preparation and internships
- Increased competitiveness for early recruiting and long-term career advancement
Timing and expectations
Students should express initial interest during their first year at Poole.
Students will formally apply and be tentatively accepted during their second year at Poole.
While many students complete both degrees in four years, actual time to completion may vary based on credit load, course availability and individual circumstances.
Eligibility highlights
- Minimum 3.5 GPA at NC State at the time of applying
- 75 earned credit hours (AP credits may count)
- Must meet all MAC admission requirements
Flexible Pathway (4+1)
Who this pathway is for
The Flexible Pathway is well-suited for students who:
- Decide on accounting later in their undergraduate career
- Want more time to explore before committing to graduate study
- Include transfer students who meet eligibility requirements
Key benefits
- Reduced graduate workload through shared coursework
- Greater flexibility in undergraduate course planning
- Cost-effective transition into the MAC program
Timing and expectations
Students typically apply during their third year of undergraduate study.
Most students complete both degrees in approximately five years, depending on course sequencing and enrollment choices.
Eligibility highlights
- Minimum 3.5 GPA at NC State at the time of applying
- 75 earned credit hours
- Must meet all MAC admission requirements
Admissions Process
The process is the same for both pathways.
Steps towards admission
- Complete the interest form below to connect with program leadership and discuss eligibility. (NOTE: Students interested in the Accelerated Pathway must complete this step by the end of their first semester at Poole.)
- Meet with undergraduate accounting and MAC program leadership to develop a plan of work
- Submit the standard MAC application to the NC State Graduate School
- Submit a signed Plan of Graduate Work outlining shared and graduate-only coursework
Interested? Get in Touch.
If you are interested in the ABM Program for Accounting (either pathway), please contact MAC program leadership using the form below to discuss next steps.