Flexible online master’s degree in accounting helps Daireth Klein leverage experience and advance in career

Daireth Klein (Online MACC '25) had been working in business management and operations for almost 20 years when she felt pulled to pursue additional studies in accounting. The flexible schedule of the Online Master of Accountancy and Data Analytics (Online MACC), as well as the program's cutting-edge curriculum, made it her top choice.

Obtaining a master's degree can be extremely beneficial, no matter where you are on your career journey, from just starting out to after decades of working. Going back to school doesn't always mean putting your career on hold — programs like the Online Master of Accountancy and Data Analytics (Online MACC) at ASU's W. P. Carey School of Business offer unmatched flexibility for working students.

Daireth Klein (Online MACC '25) had been working in business management and operations for almost 20 years when she felt pulled to pursue additional studies in accounting. The Online MACC's flexible schedule, as well as the program's cutting-edge curriculum, made it her top choice.

"I appreciate the flexibility of the online program, which made it possible for me to pursue my graduate education while continuing to work full-time," says Klein. "It’s been incredibly meaningful to receive encouragement from my professors and find success in the program, all while balancing the demands of both family and career."

The W. P. Carey School spoke to Klein about how she connected with classmates in the online program, and how the MACC provides knowledge and skills that she could immediately apply in her career.

Why W. P. Carey?

The Online MACC at W. P. Carey is an innovative program featuring a technology-rich curriculum that combines traditional accounting with data analytics techniques and skills. This ensures students are prepared for today's accounting world, where businesses increasingly rely on data to make informed decisions.

This is one of the major factors that led Klein to choose W. P. Carey. "I chose this program specifically because of its strong reputation and its unique combination of accounting and data analytics," she says.

Another draw of the Online MACC was its unique format, combining synchronous and asynchronous coursework. Students attend live virtual sessions each week, which provide the opportunity for collaboration with faculty and classmates.

"Connecting with classmates who are also balancing work and school was incredibly helpful," says Klein. "There’s a sense of camaraderie and a built-in support system that comes from sharing similar challenges."

It also provides students with face time with esteemed faculty from the School of Accountancy. Professors in the Online MACC program are the same subject-matter experts who teach the on-campus courses.

Why accounting?

Klein studied business management during her undergraduate years and has been working in the field for nearly 20 years. Much of her work has been within the nonprofit sector.

"Over time, I found myself consistently drawn to the financial side of operations, especially accounting and data analysis," she says. The Online MACC presented the perfect opportunity for Klein to explore these topics in-depth and add to her skillset.

The benefits of the program were immediate. "I particularly enjoyed the data analytics courses in the program," she says. "The skills I gained were immediately applicable in my current role, allowing me to add value in new ways."

Klein adds, "While the coursework was rigorous, it was also extremely practical, equipping me with tools and insights that directly apply to real-world challenges."

What's next?

After graduation, Klein looks back on her experience in the Online MACC program fondly, especially her interactions with classmates.

"Those relationships made the learning experience more collaborative and encouraging, and helped me stay motivated and engaged throughout the program," she says. “The experience helped me focus my career, take on more strategic roles, and prepare for future opportunities.”

Klein currently works as an accountant at a church, where her new expertise has been extremely beneficial. It has also opened up new potential pathways in her career in the future.