Hi,

I hold an undergraduate degree with a major in Accounting and have been working for a local bank (Australia) in commercial banking as an analyst. I am targetting early 2012 for MS in finance or accounting. MBA is not something i can afford as I am unwilling to seek any bank loans at this point in time (Australian banks do not provide educational loans anyway)

I am keen on MS in Accounting primarily as I would get some exemptions/waivers/credits and the course is of 1 year duration. The tuition is affordable and perhaps I may get some credits (save money) or perhaps some form of funding depending on my GMAT/GRE (which I am yet to sit for). My undergrad GPA (I don't know how to calculate it to US scale) appears maybe not so stellar as I failed a few subjects in my undergrad and had to repeat them (and others were mainly passes -I never took undergrad seriously). My work experience is solid (in the related field-Banking utilising accouting skills).

I wish to basically complete an MS and find a job in the US either in banking field (credit/commercial), IB if possible or treasury function of a company, or the transactional services in Big 4. I do not want to work in public accounting or earn a CPA. I am aiming to then join MBA in 2 years post MS from a top institution (I aim to improve my GPA through masters) and then move to IB post MBA.

Could someone advise me on the best course - MS Accounting or Finance or perhaps MBA. MS Finance courses are expensive compared to Accounting courses besides I may not complete them in a year.

Core focus for me:
1.) A related MS
2.) Not too expensive
3.) Decent job post graduation in the US (I am an australian national so visa should not be much of an issue)

All expert commentary is appreciated.