Viddar

To be more specific I'm debating between USC and CSU Fullerton, CSU Fullerton would take more time to complete but would be a lot cheaper for me. USC on the other hand would take less time to complete but would cost me more. Also, since I'm going to be competing for jobs with people that already have an MBA in finance would the rank of the school matter? I'm planning on doing a financial analyst or consultant job.

DrExPat

You should know that "financial analyst" and "consultant" are two widely used job titles that can apply to very different jobs in different contexts.

If you mean sell-side or buy-side analyst in the capital markets related industry, or management consulting for the likes of McKinsey/Bain/BCG, USC would be better. Pedigree is very important for both. However, the MAcc. is not likely to help you much with either of the above.

Anything can happen, but unless you have a relative or close friend who is in a position to open doors for you, your best *likely* outcome is a Big 4 position, and that is not a given. For public accounting or general industry finance/accounting, the school name is less important but alumni networks may be more so.