re: To get a CPA or to not?

If you plan on get your CPA I would advise getting an MS in Accounting over an MBA for the simple fact that the whole program is geared for getting ready for the CPA. The exams are cumbersome so having that one extra year of pretty much a big study program is really helpful. Also, IMO, being a CPA is similar to being an MD in that once you have the letters behind your name you won't be asked a ton of questions about it so the MBA really doesn't add that much value. When is the last time you asked a doctor what number were they in their class or how well they scored on their board exam? Same type deal with the CPA.