I earned a bachelors in history (bad decision i know) from UCLA with a gpa of 3.6 and have been working in real estate escrow the last 5 years but want to get into accounting now. 

I've looked for entry level jobs but in this job market even accounting clerks need a bs in business or accounting and/or work experience so I'm looking into getting another degree to make myself more competitive.  I was considering an accounting certificate but I'm worried businesses won't take it seriously so I started researching the MACC. 

For my situation, would a MACC make more sense or should I go for a second bachelors or MBA?  I dont want to waste my time or money.  Which degree will give me the most career opportunities and take me the furthest in my career?  I'd particularly like to hear from hiring managers or supervisors.

I am in the same situation as you are as I have a BS in legal studies.  I would go for the 2nd bachelors degree.  Here is why: In order to be eligible for the CPA exam, you need 24 business credits in addition to 24 accounting credits.  If you graduate with a Macc, you will not have any business credits and therefore ineligible to sit for the exam. 

For refernece, below are the CPA requirements in CA courtesy of the Becker website:

Additional Educational Requirements

• 24 semester units in accounting (educational requirements vary, contact State Board for specific details) and
• 24 semester units in business-related courses (educational requirements vary, contact State Board for details)

So even thoguh a Macc will give you the 24 accouting credits, you will fall short of the 24 business credits and, as a result, will need to pursue a 2nd degree in addition to the Macc.  If you don't want to go with a 2nd BS degree, then look around for schools that offer dual MBA/ Macc programs.  This will give you the business and accounting credits you need for the exam.