Graduate Studies Blog
MSC ACCOUNTANCY
It’s His Second Accounting Masters – This Time, With a Data Analytics Specialisation
“These years of being overseas are a wealth of experiences for me.” Cheng Sihua, who is enrolled in Nanyang Technological University’s (NTU) MSc in Accountancy (MACC) programme, has studied in three countries: Australia, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
He said that
studying in a new country is not just about acquiring knowledge but also about cultivating one’s ability to adapt to different environments and connecting with diverse people.
Ready for the Data-driven World
In fact, the MACC will be Sihua’s second master’s degree. His first was from the University of Hong Kong.
“My bachelor’s degree is in economics. I’ve since made a switch to accounting and realised that a year of studies from my first master’s degree is not enough for me to gain a deep understanding of the field,” he explains.
“More importantly, I’m fascinated by NTU’s new Data Analytics specialisation.”
The Data Analytics specialisation, introduced in 2022, explores technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and blockchain in relation to the accounting ecosystem and empowers accounting professionals to bridge data and accounting.
“Mastering data analytics skills is essential to stand out in the job market these days,” Sihua says. “You can also apply these skills to many fields, from marketing to Fintech.”
“Mastering data analytics skills is essential to stand out in the job market these days,” Sihua says. “You can also apply these skills to many fields, from marketing to Fintech.”
Sihua also finds that Singapore is the right place to explore such cutting-edge trends. “Singapore has the passion and will to embrace emerging technologies like automation and AI,” he says. “It’s the perfect place for me to equip myself as much as I can for the future.”
Preparing for the MACC Application
Sihua shares the following 3-step preparations that prospective candidates can make while applying for the MACC programme.
First, during the pre-application process, he advises balancing efforts between the GMAT/GRE and language test (IELTS/TOEFL) which is more productive than stressing about achieving high scores, especially for international students.
“As long as you get a relatively good score in one test, then move on and focus on the next one. You don’t need perfect scores to stand out,” he says.
For the interview process, having genuine connection with the panel is beneficial.
“Let the panel know why you want to join the programme and how it will value-add to both your professional and personal life.”
Finally, after completing the above process, have a good rest and wait patiently for the results.
Sihua says, “You’ve already worked hard, you’ve done your best. It’s common for all of us to have anxieties during the application process. If things don’t happen for you, then there is something more suitable for you out there. Trust yourself that you will eventually get where you should be.”
He also highlights that knowing one’s motivation for embarking on the MACC programme is crucial.
“Be clear about why you want to join the MACC programme,” he says. “Be specific: Why study accounting at the master’s degree level, why NTU, and why Singapore? The answers will not only be useful for you during the essay and interview stages but will also give you the clarity you need as you go through the programme.”
