Noah Brabble ’24, MSA ’25 set his sights on earning the accounting profession’s most respected credential: Certified Public Accountant (CPA). The masters in accounting (MSA) program at the Bryan School of Business and Economics offered him the knowledge, support, and professional connections to reach that goal while building his career in public accounting.
Today, Brabble applies that preparation as an assurance associate at DMJPS PLLC, where his graduate education and CPA credential position him for continued career advancement.
From Accounting Student to Certified Public Accountant
When Brabble arrived at UNC Greensboro, he was unsure whether accounting was right for him as he expected the field to revolve around mathematics. He soon discovered that accounting relies more on understanding concepts, applying rules, and following processes.
His father, a CPA, knew his son’s communication skills, process-oriented mindset, and approach to problem solving were well-suited to the profession. “Learning the different rules and processes interested me,” Brabble says. “As my accounting classes advanced, so did my problem solving and critical thinking.”
Brabble completed his bachelor’s in accounting in 2024. Before graduation, he participated in two internships, one in corporate finance and another at DMJPS, a mid-sized public accounting firm, and his current employer.
He knew balancing a full-time position at DMJPS with graduate coursework and CPA exam preparation would be demanding. Still, he pursued the MSA to deepen his accounting expertise and reach his goal of becoming a CPA. “Being a CPA demonstrates that you are knowledgeable in many areas of accounting,” he says.
The MSA program gave Brabble the flexibility, structure, and consistent support he needed to achieve the CPA credential while working full time.
How the Bryan School Supports Working Professionals
Brabble first noticed the program’s flexibility: Courses are offered online or in-person, and students can be part-time or full-time, allowing them to choose a path that fits their professional and personal responsibilities.
Although Brabble completed most of his courses online, he built strong connections with classmates as they studied, exchanged ideas, and sought guidance from faculty. Small class sizes also gave him direct access to professors and personalized feedback.
“If not for my fellow students, professors, and the scheduled time, I would not have been fueled to earn this CPA achievement,” he says.
Brabble credits MSA Program Director and Academic Advisor Jess Bankhead with the seamless organization of the MSA program. He also appreciates Ayalew Lulseged, fondly known as “Dr. Lulu,” who encourages critical thinking and application of accounting principles.
“I loved Dr. Lulu because he made the assignments hard, requiring you to think through them and earn your way toward success,” Brabble says. “What I learned in the MSA program has elevated my work at DMJPS.”
Brabble also gives credit to the Bryan School’s relationships with accounting firms across the Triad and professional organizations, such as Beta Alpha Psi, which provide UNCG students with valuable networking and recruiting opportunities.
How UNCG’s MSA Supports a Career in Public Accounting
As an assurance associate at DMJPS, Brabble helps clients ensure their financial records are accurate and reliable. “Basically, I confirm there are no mistakes and nothing is hidden. It’s like playing detective,” he says.
Following his DMJPS internship, he realized he preferred public accounting because he was able to support a variety of clients. “The work fit my passions during my internship, and it continues to fit them now,” he says.
By earning his MSA and CPA credential, Brabble positioned himself for continued growth in public accounting and greater involvement in the professional community.
“I am becoming more proficient in my work and becoming more connected to the professional services community,” he says.
Written by Amy Burtch, AMBCopy
Photos provided by Noah Brabble, Bryan School of Business and Economics Alumnus
