Accounting Graduate Programs in America

Do you excel in business and math classes? Do you enjoy solving complex problems? Are you a whiz at budgeting and organizing? If you answered “yes” to each of these questions, you should consider a rewarding career as an accountant.

Accountants create, interpret, and maintain financial records for individuals, businesses, and other organizations. They have a variety of responsibilities, such as preparing tax returns and suggesting strategies to reduce operating costs. This field requires creativity, a keen eye for detail, and strong mathematical skills.

Some accountants enter the field after completing a Bachelor of Science (B.S) in Accounting or another finance-related degree. However, more advanced accounting positions typically require a graduate degree and a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license. By pursuing a master's in accounting, you can boost your earning potential and make yourself competitive for specialist career paths.

What Is a Master of Science in Accounting?

A Master of Science (M.S.) in Accounting teaches students advanced accounting theories and business skills. Programs typically combine coursework with networking opportunities and research projects. Some grad schools also require an internship.

This format enables students to develop accounting competencies and gain specific knowledge in their preferred areas of interest. For example, programs may allow you to specialize in areas like Auditing, Forensic Accounting, and International Accounting.

An M.S. in Accounting is usually more challenging than a bachelor’s degree program. Expect to take courses in advanced topics like data mining, governmental accounting, and managerial economics.

Typically, an M.S. in Accounting takes two years to complete. However, some colleges offer a combined B.S. and M.S. in Accounting program. This initiative allows you to complete both degrees in five years, accelerating your career progression.

Once you complete a B.S. and M.S. in Accounting, you will have the required knowledge and 120 semester hours to sit for the CPA exam. This prestigious license is a necessity for many senior-level accounting positions.

What Careers Can You Pursue With a Master of Accounting?

After completing an M.S. in Accounting, you can pursue many exciting careers in the financial industry, such as:

• Auditor
• Corporate Accountant
• Corporate Controller
• Financial Analyst
• Forensic Accountant
• Fraud Examiner
• Public Accountant

Selecting a Masters of Accounting Program

Once you’ve decided to pursue an M.S. in Accounting, you will need to locate appropriate graduate programs. Fortunately, hundreds of colleges and universities offer master’s of accounting degrees, making it easy to find grad programs that align with your individual needs.

When researching grad schools, consider the following questions to help you find the best fit:

• Are classes held online or in person?
• Does the program allow you to specialize?
• Does the program provide internship and networking opportunities?
• Does the school offer financial aid?
• How much does the program’s tuition cost?
• What application materials does the program require?
• What is the program’s ranking?
• What percentage of graduates obtain jobs within three months of finishing the program?
• Where do graduates get jobs? What is the average starting salary?

At Niche, we can help you explore the best grad schools for accounting.

By pursuing an M.S. in Accounting in a suitable grad program, you will set yourself up for long-term career success. Accounting is an in-demand field that can lead to many fulfilling career paths, so a master’s degree is a great investment in your future.