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[bk007]

I want to get a PhD in accounting. I notice that many of the PhD candidates at the top schools have quant backgrounds (ex. former engineers from IIT with masters degrees). At a second tier university that I visited recently, its newest PhD accounting candidates had their masters in math/stat.

Further, some of the top programs like Stanford, MIT, Chicago or UT-Austin want applicants to have math up to linear algebra plus programming skills. In reviewing the cirriculua for PhD programs, the first couple of years are econometrics, stat and research methodology courses.

Will I improve my chances of getting into a top program by obtaining an undergrad minor in math (essentially a year plus of math beyond first year calculus) or getting a masters, such as a MA in applied economics?

I have an undergrad degree in finance (from many years ago with poor grades) and extensive work experience. By this summer, I will complete Calculus II and an accounting certificate program (30 hours of accounting credits, 4.0 so far) from a third tier university, and will sit for the CPA exam.

Thanks in advance for your feedback. The comments on this site are great.

[charlesr]

Math minor, in my opinion. 

[derekt]

I think it'd be more appropriate to get a Masters In Accounting degree if you are looking to go into the PhD route.  It is one thing to become familiar with statistics and math, but it is one thing to recognize issues in Accounting that need to be addressed in the field.  I think that might be a better bang for the buck.  Plus, with a Finance undergrad degree, not one in Accounting, I'd definitely get the MAcc.

I'm completing my MAcc this summer and will commence my PhD in Accounting this Fall.  Looking at my application package, I think the MAcc helped a lot.