collageGuide to Earning a Master’s in Accounting Online
Over 580 colleges and universities in the US offer advanced degrees in accounting, and a growing number of these institutions are offering programs that allow students to earn their master’s in accounting online. A master’s degree in accounting is a popular option to meet the 150 semester credit hours of education required in most states to sit for the Uniform CPA Exam. A graduate accounting degree also provides in-depth preparation for advanced and specialized accounting careers in such fields as finance, forensic accounting, and taxation.
On this page you will find our proprietary ranking of the best master’s in accounting programs that can be completed online, along with in-depth information and advice to help you make an informed decision on returning to school to earn your master’s degree. Continue reading to find out more about earning a graduate degree online and our rankings of the best online master’s in accounting programs.
Table of Contents
Earning a Master’s On Campus vs. Online: What You Should KnowTop Online Master’s in Accounting ProgramsProfiles of Top Accounting ProgramsFAQ about Online Master’s Programs in Accounting
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Earning a Master’s On Campus vs. Online: What You Should Know
There are various benefits and drawbacks to earning a graduate degree online. Before you commit to attending an online accounting program, it’s a good idea to analyze whether a distance learning environment is a good fit for your skills and learning style.
While all of the schools on our list of the top online master’s in accounting programs offer peer and faculty interaction through such mediums as videoconferencing and message boards, online learning is not always in real time. This can be a benefit for those who have work and life commitments outside of school, but this also means that to succeed, online graduate students must be disciplined enough to “attend” class and complete coursework on their own. Essentially, an online format is a good fit for individuals who are self-directed, can manage their time well, and do not require a lot of face-to-face time with professors.
Along the same lines, an accredited online accounting degree typically offers more flexibility for professionals who work full time. One of the drawbacks to enrolling in an online program is the lack of in-person networking, although students do have opportunities for online networking with peers. Since forming professional networks is a large component of a graduate degree program and the asynchronous nature of online learning can hinder real-time communication, students must apply additional effort to take advantage of networking opportunities when attending classes online.
Benefits of Earning a Master’s Degree Online
One of the best advantages of earning a master’s degree online is the tuition discount offered by many colleges and universities to online learners. With online accounting programs, you can attend highly-ranked schools anywhere in the country from your own home, and in many cases, avoid paying out-of-state tuition due to guaranteed online tuition rates. Since graduate tuition is typically much higher than tuition for undergraduates, the savings at institutions that offer these online discounts can be substantial.
Another benefit of earning an accredited online accounting degree is that online graduate programs in accounting tend to accept students from all undergraduate majors. Even if there are prerequisite accounting courses required for full admission to a master’s of accounting program, those courses can typically be completed online as well as part of a “bridge” program to the master’s degree. Additionally, if you earn your master’s online from a well-known and regionally accredited public or private university, you will typically follow the same program as on-campus students. Another benefit is that most traditional colleges and universities do not note on transcripts or degrees that coursework was completed online – meaning your degree holds the same weight (and requires the same academic work!) as a degree earned on-campus.
Advice for Choosing an Online Master’s in Accounting Program
There are other factors beyond cost to consider if you’ve decided that online learning is the best fit for earning your master’s degree. To begin, you should verify the resources available to online students at each school and program you evaluate, as these resources can vary between schools and from typical on-campus programs. Many, though not all, schools offer 24/7 online technical support and other resources such as online career counseling and tutoring. Before committing to an online graduate program, you should also:
- Find a program that’s a good match for your academic background. Some programs accept students from all majors, while others limit admissions to accounting or business majors. GPA and GMAT requirements also differ. It’s best to find out what the requirements and academic averages are for your target school(s) before applying so that you can gage the likelihood of your success once enrolled in the program.
- Determine how much time you can commit. Some programs that offer the master’s in accounting online are specifically designed to be completed with part-time study, while others may require full-time study. Similarly, some programs include real-time courses via videoconferencing or other technologies, while others may be fully asynchronous. Know the program’s requirements, and your ability to commit time to the program, before enrolling.
- Decide on a concentration or specialization. Select online master’s programs in accounting offer options for concentrations or specializations. If you are particularly interested in taxation or forensic accounting, for example, you should look for a program that offers emphasis options in the field you want to pursue.
Finally, accreditation is an important marker of quality in education. There are three major national bodies that award discipline-specific accreditation to business schools and accounting programs: the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), and the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE). You can read more about these bodies and the importance of accreditation on our home page.
Top Online Master’s in Accounting Programs
To help you navigate your options for earning a graduate degree through distance learning, we have ranked the best online master’s in accounting programs using our own proprietary ranking system. All of the schools on our ranking of the best online master’s of accounting programs are not-for-profit institutions that hold regional accreditation from an accrediting body recognized by the US Department of Education. Additionally, the online master’s in accounting degrees offered by the schools on our list are equivalent to traditional on-campus schools. The programs below also offer online student support, including academic advising and career placement assistance. As with most graduate degree programs, the majority of schools below do require prospective students to take either the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) to measure academic skills and students’ preparedness for graduate study.
Heavily weighted factors in our ranking methodology include the cost of tuition per online credit hour, the number of students enrolled in distance education, and ranking recognition from US News & World Report. Other factors considered include the average pay of graduate school alumni and business school/accounting program accreditation from the AACSB, ACBSP, or IACBE. Clicking on the name of any of the top 15 schools in our ranking will lead you to a profile of the school’s graduate accounting programs and additional school information such as student and faculty statistics.
| School | MIA Rank | Average Online Tuition* | Avg Grad Alumni Mid-Career Pay1 | Accreditation | % Tenured Faculty2 | US News Regional Rank3 | US News National Rank3 | US News Online Rank4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Auburn University | 1 | $850 | $92,500 | AACSB Accounting | 59% | N/A | 102 | 7 |
| University of North Carolina | 2 | $1,364 | $79,700 | AACSB Business School Only | 45% | N/A | 30 | 16 |
| University of Connecticut | 3 (tie) | $825 | $89,500 | AACSB Accounting | 58% | N/A | 57 | 68 |
| University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign | 3 (tie) | $850 | $115,100 | AACSB Accounting | 52% | N/A | 52 | NR |
| University of Massachusetts Amherst | 4 | $750 | $95,000 | AACSB Accounting | 48% | N/A | 75 | 75 |
| Pennsylvania State University | 5 | $930 | $101,000 | AACSB Business School Only | 36% | N/A | 47 | 41 |
| University of Southern California | 6 | $1,710 | $116,000 | AACSB Accounting | 27% | N/A | 23 | 31 |
| Emporia State University | 7 | $378 | N.Av. | AACSB Business School Only | 55% | 104 | N/A | NR |
| Rutgers | 8 | $945 | $97,700 | AACSB Business School Only | 28% | N/A | 72 | 53 |
| Colorado State University | 9 | $500 | $90,200 | AACSB Business School Only | 45% | N/A | 127 | 37 |
| University of Alabama at Birmingham | 10 | $833 | $85,900 | AACSB Accounting | 39% | N/A | 149 | NR |
| University of Texas Dallas | 11 | $1,750 | $110,000 | AACSB Accounting | 36% | N/A | 140 | 37 |
| St. John’s University | 12 | $1,180 | $134,000 | AACSB Accounting | 31% | N/A | 153 | 37 |
| Georgia Southern University | 13 | $691 | N.Av. | AACSB Accounting | 39% | N/A | NR | NR |
| Northeastern University | 14 | $1,520 | $101,000 | AACSB Business School Only | 33% | N/A | 47 | 57 |
| DePaul University | 15 | $1,000 | $95,200 | AACSB Accounting | 28% | N/A | 123 | 79 |
| Golden Gate University | 16 | $975 | $107,000 | None | N.Av. | NR | N/A | NR |
| Southern New Hampshire University | 17 | $627 | $76,500 | ACBSP Accounting | N.Av. | 131 | N/A | NR |
| Sacramento State | 18 | $740 | $87,200 | AACSB Business School Only | 36% | 63 | N/A | NR |
| University of Scranton | 19 | $965 | $74,300 | AACSB Business School Only | 44% | 8 | N/A | NR |
| Syracuse University | 20 | $1,443 | $93,200 | AACSB Business School Only | 42% | N/A | 61 | 85 |
| University of Hartford | 21 | $670 | $89,900 | AACSB Business School Only | 30% | 92 | N/A | NR |
| University of Miami | 22 | $1,900 | $91,000 | AACSB Accounting | 37% | N/A | 51 | 68 |
| George Mason University | 23 | $1,319 | $113,000 | AACSB Accounting | 29% | N/A | 135 | NR |
| University of South Dakota | 24 | $442 | N.Av. | AACSB Business School Only | 39% | N/A | 180 | NR |
| Florida Atlantic University | 25 | $616 | $81,500 | AACSB Business School Only | 35% | N/A | NR | NR |
| Stetson University | 26 | $784 | N.Av. | AACSB Accounting | 40% | 5 | N/A | NR |
| Rider University | 27 | $1,020 | N.Av. | AACSB Accounting | 35% | 22 | N/A | NR |
| New England College | 28 | $565 | N.Av. | None | N.Av. | NR | N/A | NR |
| Western Governors University | 29 | $406 | $85,600 | None | N.Av. | NR | N/A | NR |
| Indiana Wesleyan University | 30 | $525 | $71,900 | None | N.Av. | 30 | N/A | NR |
| Plymouth State University | 31 | $609 | N.Av. | None | 33% | 100 | N/A | NR |
| Bellevue University | 32 | $525 | $77,100 | None | N.Av. | NR | N/A | NR |
| Loyola University Chicago | 33 | $1,496 | $79,700 | AACSB Accounting | 25% | N/A | 99 | NR |
| Franklin University | 34 | $635 | $89,300 | None | N.Av. | NR | N/A | NR |
| Nova Southeastern University | 35 | $880 | $73,500 | IACBE Accounting | 2% | N/A | NR | NR |
| Saint Mary’s University | 36 | $595 | N.Av. | None | 11% | N/A | 180 | NR |
| Baypath University | 37 | $795 | N.Av. | None | N.Av. | NR | N/A | NR |
*per credit hour.
N/A = Not Applicable.
N.Av. = Not Available.
NR = School did not place in rankings.
Profiles of Top Accounting Programs
Auburn University
Auburn University’s online Master of Accountancy (MAcc) program accepts students who are US residents, have a bachelor’s degree in business or accounting, and meet business and accounting prerequisites. Students enrolled in the program receive instruction, assignments, and exams that mirror the on-campus program in a flexible online format designed for working professionals. Full-time students can complete the program in as little as one year (three semesters). A range of electives, including courses in Fraud Examination, Financial Analysis & Valuation, and Global Financial Markets, are available for degree plans tailored to individual interests. The curriculum provides students with in-depth preparation for the Uniform CPA Exam; 2015 program graduates averaged 80% or better on the four sections of the exam, which is above the national average. To ensure academic integrity while providing flexibility for the online format, students may choose to have exams proctored by approved personnel at their employers, local library, or college. While the majority of degree requirements are completed online, students must complete a three-day on-campus residency for the MAcc Leadership Summit during the final semester of study. The Auburn University online MAcc is an AACSB-accredited accounting program. Auburn University also offers an online Master of Science in Finance that may be of interest to those pursuing careers in accounting.
Admissions & Enrollment
Number of graduate students (campuswide): 5,2831
Acceptance rate (business school): 46.5%2
Minimum / average undergraduate GPA for acceptance: 2.75 / 3.282,3
Average GMAT score of accepted students: 5782
Tuition & Aid
In-state/out-of-state tuition per online credit hour: $850/$8503
In-state/out-of-state tuition per on-campus credit hour: $659/$1,5773
Academics & Faculty
Accounting/business school accreditation: AACSB Accounting, Business
Full-time online instructional faculty (business school): 24; 14 years average online teaching experience4
Dedicated business school career center: Yes
Graduate Statistics
Average debt of 2014-2015 graduates: $34,4082
Proportion of 2014-2015 graduates with debt: 23%2
% of grads employed at graduation: 31.8%2
Return to Top Accounting Schools Rankings
University of North Carolina
The online Master of Accounting (MAC) program from the Kenan-Flagler Business School at the University of North Carolina accepts candidates from all undergraduate backgrounds. Those who have undergraduate degrees in accounting or business may be eligible for course waivers as well as an advanced curriculum. With the advanced curriculum, students may be able to earn the MAC degree in fewer than the 45 credit hours typically required. MAC students can choose a concentration in either Tax or Audit and may take specialized courses in such topics as negotiations, governmental accounting, analytics, and finance. With regular admission and full-time study, the program can be completed in as few as 15 months. Courses can be started in either June or December and are delivered through a mix of synchronous (real-time) and asynchronous (self-paced) formats using integrated communication platforms that allow advanced interactions with peers and faculty. Admitted students must attend a one-week leadership immersion on campus. An optional winter internship in accounting can be completed for degree credit. Online students also have access to the same international learning experiences, known as Global Immersions, as on-campus students. Graduates of the program are prepared to sit for the Uniform CPA Exam and to pursue advanced careers in accounting.
Admissions & Enrollment
Number of graduate students (campuswide): 10,7851
Acceptance rate (business school): 33.8%2
Minimum / average undergraduate GPA for acceptance: 3.0 / 3.412,6
Average GMAT score of accepted students: 7012
Tuition & Aid
In-state/out-of-state tuition per online credit hour: $1,364/$1,3646
In-state/out-of-state tuition per on-campus credit hour: $955/$1,3806
Academics & Faculty
First online program offered in: N.Av.
Accounting/business school accreditation: AACSB Business School only
Full-time online instructional faculty (business school): N.Av.
Dedicated business school career center: Yes
Graduate Statistics
Average debt of 2014-2015 graduates: $93,8982
Proportion of 2014-2015 graduates with debt: 61%2
% of grads employed at graduation: 81.7%2
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University of Connecticut
The University of Connecticut offers an online Master of Science in Accounting (MSA). The MSA was the first online master’s program offered at the University of Connecticut and can be completed in as little as two semesters (eight months) will a full course load. Students studying part-time, especially those who have full-time work commitments, typically take two courses per semester. Admitted students typically start during the summer semester (May), although exceptions can be made with prior approval. With the exception of a required campus residency during May, all coursework can be completed online and primarily asynchronously, allowing for self-paced learning and scheduling flexibility. Available elective courses include Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination; Accounting and Disclosure for Not-for-Profit Entities; Research for Accounting Professionals; and Advanced Assurance Services. Online students also have access to the same “learning accelerators” as on-campus students, which include partnerships with high-profile corporations that can help students form advantageous professional relationships as well as gain experience. The MSA program holds separate accounting accreditation from the AACSB. The School of Business at the University of Connecticut also offers doctoral programs in accounting and finance, as well as an on-campus Master of Science in Financial Risk Management and an online Certificate in Global Risk Management.
Admissions & Enrollment
Number of graduate students (campuswide): 8,1461
Acceptance rate (business school): 41.8%2
Minimum / average undergraduate GPA for acceptance: 3.0 / 3.432,7
Average GMAT score of accepted students: 6252
Tuition & Aid
In-state/out-of-state tuition per online credit hour: $825/$8257
In-state tuition (per on-campus credit hour): The University of Connecticut does not offer an on-campus master’s program in accounting for comparison.
Academics & Faculty
First online program offered in: 2003-2004
Accounting/business school accreditation: AACSB Accounting, Business
Full-time online instructional faculty (business school): 8; 8 years average online teaching experience2
Dedicated business school career center: Yes
Graduate Statistics
Average debt of 2014-2015 graduates: $58,7672
Proportion of 2014-2015 graduates with debt: 60%2
% of grads employed at graduation: 62.5%2
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University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers an online Master of Science in Accountancy, known as the iMSA, that is open to students with a bachelor’s degree in any discipline provided that the student has met certain undergraduate business course prerequisites. It is recommended that applicants have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 in order to be competitive in the admissions process and the program. Admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis, meaning that prospective students may apply to the program throughout the academic year. Admitted students must complete 32 credit hours to earn the iMSA. With a full-time course load, it is possible to complete the iMSA in as few as 18 months; students may also take up to 36 months to complete the program with part-time study. The program is designed to allow students to personalize their education to their career goals with electives beyond the accounting core. Elective courses available include Statistical Analyses in Accountancy, Advanced Financial Reporting, and Data Analytics in Accountancy. Students must also take at least one business elective. Each course is delivered in two fully-online segments; the first segment is delivered as video lectures and assigned readings through Coursera, followed by a second segment that is based on weekly live online classroom engagements.
Admissions & Enrollment
Number of graduate students (campuswide): 13,0191
Acceptance rate (business school): N.Av.
Minimum / average undergraduate GPA for acceptance: 3.0 recommended8
Average GMAT score of accepted students: N.Av.
Tuition & Aid
In-state/out-of-state tuition per online credit hour: $850/$8508
In-state/out-of-state tuition per on-campus credit hour: $1,262/$1,2628
Academics & Faculty
First online program offered in: 2017
Accounting/business school accreditation: AACSB Accounting
Full-time online instructional faculty (business school): N.Av.
Dedicated business school career center: Yes
Graduate Statistics
Average debt of 2014-2015 graduates: N.Av.
Proportion of 2014-2015 graduates with debt: N.Av.
% of grads employed at graduation: N.Av.
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University of Massachusetts Amherst
The online Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) program at the University of Massachusetts Amherst Isenberg School of Management emphasizes analysis and valuation while preparing students to sit for the Uniform CPA Exam. The MSA holds separate programmatic accreditation from the AACSB and can be completed in as few as two semesters. The majority of the 30 credits required to earn the degree are from the core curriculum, which includes such courses as Advanced Topics in Financial Reporting, Advanced Audit, and Information Technology for Accountants. Admission is competitive and is based on both academic and professional performance. Accepted students may begin their coursework during the spring, summer, or fall semesters. Graduates of the program benefit from an extensive alumni network as well as the school’s strong relationships with corporate and foundation partners. The Isenberg School of Management has dedicated business school advisors and professional student support resources available through the Chase Career Center.
Admissions & Enrollment
Number of graduate students (campuswide): 6,3831
Acceptance rate (business school): 33.8%2
Minimum / average undergraduate GPA for acceptance: 2.75 / 3.362,9
Average GMAT score of accepted students: 6392
Tuition & Aid
In-state/out-of-state tuition per online credit hour: $750/$7509
In-state/out-of-state tuition per on-campus credit hour: $2,093/$3,7189
Academics & Faculty
First online program offered in: 2014-2015
Accounting/business school accreditation: AACSB Accounting, Business
Full-time online instructional faculty (business school): 32
Dedicated business school career center: Yes
Graduate Statistics
Average debt of 2014-2015 graduates: $26,4822
Proportion of 2014-2015 graduates with debt: 17%2
% of grads employed at graduation: 42.9%2
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Pennsylvania State University
Pennsylvania State University, also known as PennState, offers an online Master of Professional Accounting that builds the skills and credentials required to sit for and pass the Uniform CPA Exam. Applicants are not required to hold an undergraduate degree in accounting, although certain accounting courses are prerequisites for full program admission. Courses in the online program are taught by the same full-time, experienced faculty who teach on-campus courses and include study in such topics as Auditing Theory and Practice, Strategic Cost Management, Advanced UCC and Commercial Transactions, and Governmental and Nonprofit Accounting. Students also take a capstone course in Forensic Accounting and Litigation Support, which provides unique and specialized preparation for professional forensic accounting activities. PennState has deep institutional experience in offering distance coursework, as it first offered correspondence courses in 1892. PennState leverages today’s technology with its proprietary centralized online learning platform, which provides a fully integrated environment for online education. PennState also offers a Master of Finance that can be completed substantially online with a one-week campus residency.
Admissions & Enrollment
Number of graduate students (campuswide): 6,4991
Acceptance rate (business school): 17.1%2
Minimum / average undergraduate GPA for acceptance: N/A / 3.52,10
Average GMAT score of accepted students: 6362
Tuition & Aid
In-state/out-of-state tuition per online credit hour: $930/$93010
In-state/out-of-state tuition per on-campus credit hour: $1,204/$1,57110
Academics & Faculty
First online program offered in: 2000-2001
Accounting/business school accreditation: AACSB Business only
Full-time online instructional faculty (online campus): 370; 5 years average online teaching experience4
Dedicated business school career center: No
Graduate Statistics
Average debt of 2014-2015 graduates: $36,2342
Proportion of 2014-2015 graduates with debt: 28%2
% of grads employed at graduation: 71.2%2
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University of Southern California
The University of Southern California (USC) offers a Master of Business Taxation (MBT) that can be completed online through a track designed specifically for working professionals. Most classes meet online once per week between 5:30 and 6:30 PM, Pacific Time. The admissions process is competitive and is based on the completion of prerequisite courses in economics, intermediate financial accounting, and corporate/public finance. The average student admitted to the program is 30 years of age with 6 years of work experience. In order to be admitted, prospective students must have at least one year of tax-related professional experience. The MBT can be completed in as few as 5 semesters when taking 1 to 2 courses per semester, though students are permitted to work through the degree requirements at a slower pace. The curriculum consists of five required courses plus five electives, which can be selected to fit with personal and professional interests. Electives include courses such as Taxation of Transactions in Property; Taxation of Foreign Business Operations; and Advanced Financial Statement Auditing Topics. All courses are taught by experienced and qualified faculty, who seek to prepare students to pursue advanced accounting and management careers. The USC Leventhal School of Accounting also offers a Master of Accounting (MAcc) degree program, though at this time the MAcc is not available online.
Admissions & Enrollment
Admissions
Number of graduate students (campuswide): 23,7141
Acceptance rate (business school): 28.9%2
Minimum / average undergraduate GPA for acceptance: 3.0 / 3.312,11
Average GMAT score of accepted students: 6792
Tuition & Aid
In-state/out-of-state tuition per online credit hour: $1,710/$1,71011
In-state/out-of-state tuition per on-campus credit hour: $1,980/$1,98011
Academics & Faculty
First online program offered in: 1999-2000
Accounting/business school accreditation: AACSB Accounting
Full-time online instructional faculty (business school): N.Av.
Dedicated business school career center: Yes
Graduate Statistics
Average debt of 2013 graduates: $22,8412
Proportion of 2014-2015 graduates with debt: N.Av.
% of grads employed at graduation: 60.8%2
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Emporia State University
Emporia State University awards the Master of Accountancy (MAcc) to candidates who complete its 30-credit hour graduate program, which helps students meet the 150-hour requirement to sit for the Uniform CPA Exam. To be considered for admission, students must have an undergraduate degree in accounting or a closely related field as well as an acceptable score on the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT). The required GMAT score is flexible based on the candidate’s undergraduate GPA, though the lowest acceptable GMAT score for admissions consideration is 450. The requirements for the degree, which is designed with working professionals in mind, can be completed entirely online. A variety of electives allow students to tailor their curriculum plans to individual interests. The electives list includes such courses as Enterprise Resource Planning Foundations, Fraud Examination, Managerial Economics, and Information Technology Project Management. To help offset the cost of higher education, the School of Business offers a limited number of graduate scholarships to academically talented students. Graduate students also have access to the school’s Corporate Connection and mentorship programs as well as a dedicated Business Advising Center. The School of Business at Emporia State is accredited by the AACSB.
Admissions & Enrollment
Number of graduate students (campuswide): 2,1901
Acceptance rate (overall): 61%2
Minimum / average undergraduate GPA for acceptance: 2.75 / N.Av.13
Average GMAT score of accepted students: N.Av; minimum requirement of 45013
Tuition & Aid
In-state/out-of-state tuition per online credit hour: $319/$43713
In-state/out-of-state tuition per on-campus credit hour: $235/$73113
Academics & Faculty
First online program offered in: 2014-2015
Accounting/business school accreditation: AACSB Business
Full-time online instructional faculty (business school): 44
Dedicated business school career center: Yes
Graduate Statistics
Average debt of 2014-2015 graduates: N.Av.
Proportion of 2014-2015 graduates with debt: N.Av.
% of grads employed at graduation: N.Av.
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Rutgers
The Rutgers Business School offers a specialized Master of Accountancy in Governmental Accountancy, the first program of its kind to be offered entirely online. The program is part-time and designed for working professionals interested in advanced government accounting careers. The credits earned for the Master’s in Governmental Accounting degree can help students meet the requirements to sit for the Uniform CPA Exam. The program can also prepare students to take the Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM) exam. Though not required, it is recommended that students have an undergraduate degree in business or accounting for admissions consideration. To earn the degree, students take seven required courses plus three electives. Elective topics include Federal Financial Management, Public Sector Forensic Accounting, and Special Topics: Governmental Financial Analysis. An option for independent study in Public Financial Management is also offered. Rutgers also offers a hybrid online/on-campus program leading to the Master of Accountancy in Financial Accounting, as well as on-campus programs for the Master of Accountancy in Professional Accounting and Master of Accountancy in Taxation. The Rutgers Business School is frequently top-ranked by publications such as US News & World Report and Forbes, and holds accreditation from the AACSB.
Admissions & Enrollment
Number of graduate students (campuswide): 3,9061
Acceptance rate (business school): 42.5%2
Minimum / average undergraduate GPA for acceptance: N/A / 3.332,14
Average GMAT score of accepted students: 6422
Tuition & Aid
In-state/out-of-state tuition per online credit hour: $945/$94514
In-state/out-of-state tuition per on-campus credit hour: $948/$1,15214
Academics & Faculty
First online program offered in: 2007-2008
Accounting/business school accreditation: AACSB Business
Full-time online instructional faculty (business school): 11; 8 years average online teaching experience2
Dedicated business school career center: Yes
Graduate Statistics
Average debt of 2014-2015 graduates: $44,0002
Proportion of 2014-2015 graduates with debt: N.Av.
% of grads employed at graduation: 72.9%2
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Colorado State University
Colorado State University (CSU) offers a fully online Master of Professional Accounting (MPAcc) degree program through its Global Campus. The MPAcc program emphasizes analysis and problem-solving in accounting and finance for business and prepares students for advanced professional accounting careers. To be considered for full admission, students must have an undergraduate degree with either a major or concentration in accounting, including 21 upper-division credit hours in accounting. Prospective students who do not meet this requirement may be able to seek provisional admission if they have at least 15 credit hours of upper-division accounting plus previous experience or if they complete the prerequisites through the CSU Global Campus with a GPA of at least 3.0. Once enrolled in the MPAcc program, students are locked into the tuition rate as of their first semester for as long as they remain active students. Students take the majority of courses asynchronously, allowing students to “attend” classes as it fits their schedule. The 30-credit hour curriculum includes 24 credits in required courses plus six credits of elective coursework. All program faculty hold advanced degrees and have current accounting industry experience. CSU also offers online specializations in Finance and Fraud Management that may be of interest to accounting students, as well as an online Master of Finance degree program.
Admissions & Enrollment
Number of graduate students (Global Campus): 2,3521
Acceptance rate (business school): 69.8%2
Minimum / average undergraduate GPA for acceptance: 3.0 / 3.382,15
Average GMAT score of accepted students: 5452
Tuition & Aid
In-state/out-of-state tuition per online credit hour: $500/$50015
In-state/out-of-state tuition per on-campus credit hour: $535/$1,31115
Academics & Faculty
First online program offered in: 2008-2009
Accounting/business school accreditation: AACSB Business
Full-time online instructional faculty (business school): 8; 10 years average online teaching experience2
Dedicated business school career center: Yes
Graduate Statistics
Average debt of 2014-2015 graduates: $32,5562
Proportion of 2014-2015 graduates with debt: 50%2
% of grads employed at graduation: N.Av.
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University of Alabama at Birmingham
The fully online Master of Accounting (MAcc) at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Collat School of Business (UAB Collat) helps students develop skills in analytics, business, and leadership while preparing for the Uniform CPA Exam. A bridge program is available to help students who have an undergraduate degree in majors other than accounting or business meet the prerequisite course requirements. Once enrolled in the MAcc program, students take seven core accounting courses as well as three elective courses. Electives offered include External Auditing; Forensic Accounting and Information Technology Auditing; and Corporate Governance. Students may also take practicum courses to earn credit for work experience. Graduate-level scholarships are available to academically talented degree candidates. Over 90% of the faculty at UAB Collat hold PhDs, contributing to the school’s reputation as a research institution. UAB Collat is also known for its focus on innovation and entrepreneurship, with strong ties to the corporate community that aid students in building professional networks. In addition to holding programmatic accreditation from the AACSB, the online MAcc is regularly top-ranked by such publications as US News & World Report and the Princeton Review.
Admissions & Enrollment
Number of graduate students (campuswide): 7,0191
Acceptance rate (business school): N.Av.
Minimum / average undergraduate GPA for acceptance: N/A / N.Av.
Average GMAT score of accepted students: 5522
Tuition & Aid
In-state/out-of-state tuition per online credit hour: $383/$1,28216
In-state/out-of-state tuition per on-campus credit hour: $396/$93516
Academics & Faculty
First online program offered in: 2012-2013
Accounting/business school accreditation: AACSB Accounting, Business
Full-time online instructional faculty (business school): 62
Dedicated business school career center: Yes
Graduate Statistics
Average debt of 2014-2015 graduates: N.Av.
Proportion of 2014-2015 graduates with debt: N.Av.
% of grads employed at graduation: N.Av.
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University of Texas Dallas
The University of Texas Dallas (UT Dallas) offers a 36-credit hour Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) program through the Naveen Jindal School of Management that can be completed in as few as 18 months. Students from all undergraduate majors are considered for admission. Students enrolled in the program acquire the skills and knowledge to succeed in various fields of accounting and pass the Uniform CPA Exam; however, prospective students who are Texas residents should note that the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy requires that at least 15 of the 30 graduate hours in accounting taken to qualify for the CPA Exam be delivered on-campus. Under the guaranteed tuition plan, once admitted, students’ rate per credit hour does not change for up to 12 consecutive semesters. Many courses in the MSA include experiential components that allow students to apply learning in real-world situations in diverse contexts, from the corporate landscape to nonprofits and start-ups. An online CPA review course is also offered online in the summer and fall semesters. Various graduate-level scholarships are available based on diverse criteria, including need- and diversity-driven financial awards as well as those based on academic merit, leadership, and work experience. The Naveen Jindal School of Management has an international reputation for excellence and offers students the opportunity to connect to alumni mentors and gain other advantages through its corporate and professional networks. An on-campus program leading to a PhD in Management Science with an Accounting Concentration is also offered.
Admissions & Enrollment
Number of graduate students (campuswide): 8,7951
Acceptance rate (business school): 21.9%2
Minimum / average undergraduate GPA for acceptance: N/A / 3.472,17
Average GMAT score of accepted students: 6782
Tuition & Aid
Tuition
In-state/out-of-state tuition per online credit hour: $1,397/$2,10317
In-state/out-of-state tuition per on-campus credit hour: $1,397/$2,10317
Academics & Faculty
First online program offered in: 2008-2009
Accounting/business school accreditation: AACSB Accounting, Business
Full-time online instructional faculty (business school): 54; 8 years average online teaching experience2
Dedicated business school career center: Yes
Graduate Statistics
Average debt of 2014-2015 graduates: N.Av.
Proportion of 2014-2015 graduates with debt: N.Av.
% of grads employed at graduation: N.Av.
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St. John’s University
St. John’s University offers two fully online programs of interest to prospective accountants, a Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) and a Master of Science in Taxation (MST). Offered through the university’s Peter J. Tobin College of Business, both programs take between 31 and 33 credit hours to complete. The MSA program focuses on modern professional practice in accounting in a global context and offers admission to those who completed an undergraduate major in business. Graduates of the program are prepared to sit for the Uniform CPA Exam. The MST program focuses on building comprehensive knowledge of taxation strategy, compliance, and research. To be admitted to this program, students must hold an undergraduate degree in accounting. Both the MSA and MST programs have been recognized by US News & World Report as top online graduate programs in business, and both programs hold program-level recognition from such organizations as the AACSB, the Anti-Fraud Education Partnership (ACFE), and the Institute of Internal Auditors Internal Auditing Education Partnership (IAEP).
Admissions & Enrollment
Number of graduate students (campuswide): 4,6831
Acceptance rate (business school): 73.8%2
Minimum / average undergraduate GPA for acceptance: N/A / 3.622,18
Average GMAT score of accepted students: 5372
Tuition & Aid
In-state/out-of-state tuition per online credit hour: $1,180/$1,18018
In-state tuition (per on-campus credit hour): $1,180/$1,18018
Academics & Faculty
First online program offered in: 2011-2012
Accounting/business school accreditation: AACSB Accounting, Business
Full-time online instructional faculty (business school): 33; 2 years average online teaching experience2
Dedicated business school career center: No
Graduate Statistics
Average debt of 2014-2015 graduates: $37,4732
Proportion of 2014-2015 graduates with debt: 23%2
% of grads employed at graduation: N.Av.
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Georgia Southern University
Georgia Southern University offers an online Master of Accounting, known within the school as the WebMAcc. Students from all undergraduate majors are considered for admission, although all admitted students must meet the accounting prerequisites. The cohort-based curriculum that emphasizes student team-building is sequenced across six semesters and consists of ten courses, six of which are required and four of which are chosen from available electives. Though the program prepares students to work in all major accounting competencies, the School of Accounting has a particular focus on excellence in the field of forensic accounting. Available electives include Fraud and Society; Cyber Forensic and Data Analysis; and Expert Witnessing. Once admitted, students must arrange an approved testing center to proctor course exams, such as Prometric or a local college or university. The program is academically competitive and requires students to maintain an overall GPA of 3.0 to graduate, with no more than 2 grades of “C” or below permitted during the program. Graduates of the program are prepared to sit for the Uniform CPA Exam and may be eligible to sit for other professional certification exams such as the Certified in Financial Forensics (CFF) exam established by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).
Admissions & Enrollment
Number of graduate students (campuswide): 2,5131
Acceptance rate (campuswide): 63.1%2
Minimum / average undergraduate GPA for acceptance: N/A / 3.672,19
Average GMAT score of accepted students: 52016
Tuition & Aid
In-state/out-of-state tuition per online credit hour: $277/$1,10519
In-state/out-of-state tuition per on-campus credit hour: $27719
Academics & Faculty
First online program offered in: 2008-2009
Accounting/business school accreditation: AACSB Accounting, Business
Full-time online instructional faculty (business school): 14; 4 years average online teaching experience2
Dedicated business school career center: Yes
Graduate Statistics
Average debt of 2014-2015 graduates: $26,2152
Proportion of 2014-2015 graduates with debt: 60%2
% of grads employed at graduation: N.Av.
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Northeastern University
Northeastern University awards the Master of Science in Taxation (MST) to students who complete its academically rigorous graduate program, which consists of 15 required credit hours plus 15 credit hours of electives. The MST is designed for working students and can typically be completed in two years or four semesters. Admitted students may begin the program in January, May, or September and choose from one of two specialization tracks in either Individual Taxation or Entity Taxation. Electives offered include Tax Accounting for Income Taxes; Taxation of E-Commerce; Advanced Flow-Through Entities; and Financial Planning for Investments. To graduate, students must maintain an overall GPA of at least 3.0 across all courses attempted. Graduates are prepared to sit for the Uniform CPA Exam as well as the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) Examination. The D’Amore-McKim School of Business, through which the MST program is offered, is regularly recognized as a top business school by publications such as Bloomberg and US News and World Report. Other graduate programs offered on-campus through the D’Amore-McKim School of Business include the Master of Science in Accounting, Master of Science in Innovation, and Master of Science in International Management.
Admissions & Enrollment
Number of graduate students (campuswide): 6,2881
Acceptance rate (business school): 22.5%2
Minimum / average undergraduate GPA for acceptance: N/A / 3.292,20
Average GMAT score of accepted students: 6442
Tuition & Aid
In-state/out-of-state tuition per online credit hour: $1,520/$1,52020
In-state tuition (per on-campus credit hour): $1,520/$1,52020
Academics & Faculty
First online program offered in: 2009-2010
Accounting/business school accreditation: AACSB Business
Full-time online instructional faculty (business school): 15; 5 years average online teaching experience2
Dedicated business school career center: Yes
Graduate Statistics
Average debt of 2014-2015 graduates (campuswide): $26,6924
Proportion of 2014-2015 graduates with debt (campuswide): 44%4
% of grads employed at graduation: 64.3%2
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DePaul University
DePaul University’s Kellstadt Graduate School of Business offers a Master of Science in Accountancy (MSA) that requires 45 credit hours (16 courses) to complete. The program is designed for students who do not have undergraduate accounting degrees, making the program a flexible option for students changing focus areas. The sequenced curriculum includes 12 courses in accounting plus four courses in business, providing a well-rounded degree program and developing students’ understanding of the intersections between accounting and the wider business environment. Students may take up to six years to complete the degree, which provides preparation for professional accounting careers and the Uniform CPA Exam. The business programs at DePaul University are nationally respected by employers and are regularly top-ranked by business and graduate school publications. Recent surveys conducted by Taxtalent.com have shown that employers rate DePaul’s MSA program within the top 10 programs of its kind. The Kellstadt Graduate School of Business also offers an online program leading to the Master of Science in Taxation, as well as a broad variety of specialized on-campus master of science programs in such fields as Wealth Management, Enterprise Risk Management, and Computational Finance.
Admissions & Enrollment
Number of graduate students (campuswide): 7,6461
Acceptance rate (business school): 34.4%2
Minimum / average undergraduate GPA for acceptance: N/A / 3.402,21
Average GMAT score of accepted students: 6262
Tuition & Aid
In-state/out-of-state tuition per online credit hour: $1,020/$1,02021
In-state/out-of-state tuition per on-campus credit hour: $1,020/$1,02021
Academics & Faculty
First online program offered in: N.Av.
Accounting/business school accreditation: AACSB Accounting, Business
Full-time online instructional faculty (business school): N.Av.
Dedicated business school career center: Yes
Graduate Statistics
Average debt of 2014-2015 graduates: $64,7592
Proportion of 2014-2015 graduates with debt: 47%2
% of grads employed at graduation: 52.9%2
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Frequently Asked Questions about Online Master’s Programs in Accounting
Are online degrees respected? How do employers view online degrees?
Whether or not a degree was earned online, the most important indication of respect for your degree is likely the name recognition of the school you choose to attend. Since the vast majority of programs do not differentiate between online vs. on-campus courses on transcripts or degrees, employers will not be able to tell whether a degree was earned online unless you choose to disclose that fact. Your online degree, if earned from a respected school, will be just as well-regarded as if you earned that degree on campus.
Do I need a master’s degree to practice accounting?
You do not need a master’s degree to practice accounting, but in the majority of states, you do need a master’s degree to call yourself a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Most states require that candidates for the Uniform CPA Exam, which is required to earn the CPA designation, have at least 150 credit hours of education. Since most bachelor’s degrees take around 120 credit hours to complete, and most master’s degrees require 30 credit hours, earning a master’s in accounting is the typical route for CPAs as well as those seeking to advance to managerial positions.
What can I do with a master’s degree in accounting?
A master’s degree in accounting opens the door to greater responsibility and career advancement. As noted above, a master’s degree is the typical route to CPA licensure. A master’s degree in accounting is also suggested for careers in governmental accounting, auditing, taxation, and compliance.
How long does it take to complete a master’s degree?
The length of a master’s degree program depends on the structure of the individual program and the student’s availability. Many schools offer both part-time and full-time programs for earning an online master’s in accounting. Full-time programs can generally be completed in as few as 18 months. Part-time programs usually allow students up to six years to complete degree requirements.
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