University HQ is an industry-leading, independent educational organization that provides independent college rankings using a proprietary formula to create first class unbiased rankings. The team at University Headquarters strives to provide accurate and trustworthy rankings that highlights the best programs for a masters in accounting.

Higher education and advanced degrees are increasingly important across many professions, including accounting. While accountants can pursue professional certificates like the CPA, a master's degree in accounting can be invaluable. An in-person or online accounting or MBA program can also help graduates meet the qualifications to sit for the CPA exam, as they require additional credit hours beyond a bachelor's degree. This page highlights how a master's in accounting, whether online or in-person, can help you advance your career without disrupting your current job.

These programs can also cover a variety of niche subjects for those who have a vision of where they want their courses and accounting master's degree program to take them in terms of their accounting careers:

  • Auditing
  • Corporate, Public Accounting
  • Financial Accounting
  • Financial Reporting
  • Forensic Accounting
  • Managerial Accounting
  • Accounting Information Systems

Featured Online Accounting Programs

PROS

    A master's degree in accounting can significantly boost employment prospects, even for those with substantial work experience. Many professionals pursue online master's or Master of Accountancy (MAcc) programs to open up new career opportunities. Graduates may be considered for promotions by their current employer and attract attention from recruiters. Additionally, networking with classmates (especially in hybrid programs) and leveraging alumni connections can further enhance job opportunities.

    Another benefit of a graduate degree is that you could eventually teach at the college level. After retiring from your primary career, your master's and work experience might lead to a permanent position at a local or online college.

CONS

    While an accounting master's degree offers many benefits, there are potential downsides. One key concern is that the degree may not lead to the expected pay increase or promotion. It's important to weigh the risks and rewards before deciding if it's the right investment for you.

    When analyzing the decision, consider the time commitment, potential career and family sacrifices, and the debt incurred. Most accounting master's programs take up to three years, with accelerated options available online, but you should assess if you can handle a full-time schedule or need part-time. Also, think about how full-time study might impact your family responsibilities.

What are the Best Online Masters in Accounting College Programs?


1
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $8,989
    • Out-of-State:$39,330
  • Net Price: $10,614
  • Acceptance Rate: 17%
  • Retention Rate: 96%
  • Graduation Rate: 91%
  • Total Enrollment: 31,705
  • Undergrad Students: 20,029
  • Graduate Students: 11,676
  • Grads Salary: $77,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 17:1
  • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
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2
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $16,004
    • Out-of-State:$34,501
  • Net Price: $14,544
  • Acceptance Rate: 45%
  • Retention Rate: 93%
  • Graduation Rate: 85%
  • Total Enrollment: 56,916
  • Undergrad Students: 35,120
  • Graduate Students: 21,796
  • Grads Salary: $84,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 21:1
  • University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
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3
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $8,895
    • Out-of-State:$31,767
  • Net Price: $14,852
  • Acceptance Rate: 47%
  • Retention Rate: 94%
  • Graduation Rate: 85%
  • Total Enrollment: 36,700
  • Undergrad Students: 26,254
  • Graduate Students: 10,446
  • Grads Salary: $82,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • North Carolina State University at Raleigh
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4
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $20,366
    • Out-of-State:$43,034
  • Net Price: $23,985
  • Acceptance Rate: 55%
  • Retention Rate: 91%
  • Graduation Rate: 83%
  • Total Enrollment: 27,003
  • Undergrad Students: 18,983
  • Graduate Students: 8,020
  • Grads Salary: $82,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • University of Connecticut
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5
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $17,357
    • Out-of-State:$39,293
  • Net Price: $22,291
  • Acceptance Rate: 64%
  • Retention Rate: 90%
  • Graduation Rate: 83%
  • Total Enrollment: 32,229
  • Undergrad Students: 24,391
  • Graduate Students: 7,838
  • Grads Salary: $82,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 18:1
  • University of Massachusetts-Amherst
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6
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $37,000
    • Out-of-State:$37,000
  • Net Price: $18,560
  • Acceptance Rate: 58%
  • Retention Rate: 71%
  • Graduation Rate: 65%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,297
  • Undergrad Students: 1,414
  • Graduate Students: 1,883
  • Grads Salary: $88,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • University of St. Francis
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7

Bentley University

Score: 78.76

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $58,150
    • Out-of-State:$58,150
  • Net Price: $44,233
  • Acceptance Rate: 58%
  • Retention Rate: 91%
  • Graduation Rate: 88%
  • Total Enrollment: 5,165
  • Undergrad Students: 4,131
  • Graduate Students: 1,034
  • Grads Salary: $91,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • Bentley University
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8

Auburn University

Score: 78.27

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $12,536
    • Out-of-State:$33,944
  • Net Price: $25,271
  • Acceptance Rate: 44%
  • Retention Rate: 93%
  • Graduation Rate: 81%
  • Total Enrollment: 31,764
  • Undergrad Students: 25,379
  • Graduate Students: 6,385
  • Grads Salary: $76,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 20:1
  • Auburn University
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9
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $14,564
    • Out-of-State:$40,064
  • Net Price: $13,555
  • Acceptance Rate: 85%
  • Retention Rate: 87%
  • Graduation Rate: 70%
  • Total Enrollment: 31,570
  • Undergrad Students: 21,617
  • Graduate Students: 9,953
  • Grads Salary: $81,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 27:1
  • The University of Texas at Dallas
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10
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $16,570
    • Out-of-State:$35,396
  • Net Price: $17,240
  • Acceptance Rate: 86%
  • Retention Rate: 84%
  • Graduation Rate: 71%
  • Total Enrollment: 17,153
  • Undergrad Students: 12,389
  • Graduate Students: 4,764
  • Grads Salary: $82,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 17:1
  • University of Massachusetts-Lowell
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11
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $16,586
    • Out-of-State:$35,348
  • Net Price: $16,578
  • Acceptance Rate: 74%
  • Retention Rate: 82%
  • Graduation Rate: 66%
  • Total Enrollment: 11,017
  • Undergrad Students: 7,511
  • Graduate Students: 3,506
  • Grads Salary: $82,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Rutgers University-Newark
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12
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $13,815
    • Out-of-State:$39,397
  • Net Price: $18,479
  • Acceptance Rate: 90%
  • Retention Rate: 85%
  • Graduation Rate: 71%
  • Total Enrollment: 39,049
  • Undergrad Students: 27,014
  • Graduate Students: 12,035
  • Grads Salary: $82,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • George Mason University
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13
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $6,565
    • Out-of-State:$18,963
  • Net Price: $9,881
  • Acceptance Rate: 64%
  • Retention Rate: 91%
  • Graduation Rate: 69%
  • Total Enrollment: 55,609
  • Undergrad Students: 45,688
  • Graduate Students: 9,921
  • Grads Salary: $71,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 24:1
  • Florida International University
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14

Wheeling University

Score: 77.13

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $29,475
    • Out-of-State:$29,475
  • Net Price: $19,998
  • Acceptance Rate: 73%
  • Retention Rate: 72%
  • Graduation Rate: 70%
  • Total Enrollment: 749
  • Undergrad Students: 594
  • Graduate Students: 155
  • Grads Salary: $82,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 9:1
  • Wheeling University
15
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $13,626
    • Out-of-State:$41,095
  • Net Price: $17,075
  • Acceptance Rate: 87%
  • Retention Rate: 86%
  • Graduation Rate: 68%
  • Total Enrollment: 49,403
  • Undergrad Students: 38,751
  • Graduate Students: 10,652
  • Grads Salary: $80,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 17:1
  • University of Arizona
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16

Regis University

Score: 76.54

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $43,980
    • Out-of-State:$43,980
  • Net Price: $26,377
  • Acceptance Rate: 76%
  • Retention Rate: 72%
  • Graduation Rate: 67%
  • Total Enrollment: 4,668
  • Undergrad Students: 2,398
  • Graduate Students: 2,270
  • Grads Salary: $89,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 9:1
  • Regis University
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17
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $8,578
    • Out-of-State:$20,228
  • Net Price: $13,799
  • Acceptance Rate: 82%
  • Retention Rate: 79%
  • Graduation Rate: 62%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,842
  • Undergrad Students: 1,982
  • Graduate Students: 860
  • Grads Salary: $80,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • SUNY Polytechnic Institute
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18

Assumption University

Score: 76.2

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $49,414
    • Out-of-State:$49,414
  • Net Price: $28,911
  • Acceptance Rate: 82%
  • Retention Rate: 83%
  • Graduation Rate: 72%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,059
  • Undergrad Students: 1,704
  • Graduate Students: 355
  • Grads Salary: $86,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 11:1
  • Assumption University
19
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $14,130
    • Out-of-State:$34,338
  • Net Price: $19,889
  • Acceptance Rate: 79%
  • Retention Rate: 89%
  • Graduation Rate: 75%
  • Total Enrollment: 31,304
  • Undergrad Students: 23,745
  • Graduate Students: 7,559
  • Grads Salary: $73,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 18:1
  • University of Missouri-Columbia
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20
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $63,061
    • Out-of-State:$63,061
  • Net Price: $43,651
  • Acceptance Rate: 52%
  • Retention Rate: 91%
  • Graduation Rate: 83%
  • Total Enrollment: 22,698
  • Undergrad Students: 15,421
  • Graduate Students: 7,277
  • Grads Salary: $85,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • Syracuse University
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21
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $12,896
    • Out-of-State:$33,751
  • Net Price: $16,926
  • Acceptance Rate: 91%
  • Retention Rate: 86%
  • Graduation Rate: 67%
  • Total Enrollment: 33,403
  • Undergrad Students: 25,777
  • Graduate Students: 7,626
  • Grads Salary: $77,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 17:1
  • Colorado State University-Fort Collins
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22
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $50,110
    • Out-of-State:$50,110
  • Net Price: $26,052
  • Acceptance Rate: 85%
  • Retention Rate: 82%
  • Graduation Rate: 69%
  • Total Enrollment: 19,663
  • Undergrad Students: 15,652
  • Graduate Students: 4,011
  • Grads Salary: $83,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • St. John's University
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23
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $8,400
    • Out-of-State:$8,400
  • Net Price: $11,172
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 90%
  • Graduation Rate: 55%
  • Total Enrollment: 48,668
  • Undergrad Students: 39,206
  • Graduate Students: 9,462
  • Grads Salary: $79,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 24:1
  • American Public University System
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24
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $7,602
    • Out-of-State:$19,482
  • Net Price: $11,596
  • Acceptance Rate: 93%
  • Retention Rate: 80%
  • Graduation Rate: 54%
  • Total Enrollment: 31,818
  • Undergrad Students: 28,921
  • Graduate Students: 2,897
  • Grads Salary: $81,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 24:1
  • California State University-Sacramento
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25
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $42,834
    • Out-of-State:$42,834
  • Net Price: $29,625
  • Acceptance Rate: 81%
  • Retention Rate: 77%
  • Graduation Rate: 70%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,478
  • Undergrad Students: 990
  • Graduate Students: 488
  • Grads Salary: $83,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 10:1
  • Saint Joseph's College of Maine
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Overview of an Online Master's in Accounting


What Online Accounting Master’s are Available?


Accountants have several options available for their graduate studies. If you are ready to consider upgrading your credentials, take some time to determine exactly which degree will suit your long-term goals.

MBA with a Specialization in Accounting (MBA): This degree will steep you in a core business curriculum and then allow you to specialize in your true focus: accounting. The MBA is a great choice if you are aiming at upper management, including the C-suites.

Master of Arts in Accounting (MAcc): If your studies are weighted to include coursework in business law, management, or economics, you could be conferred an MA in Accounting.

Master of Science in Accounting (MSA): An MSA degree program is one that keeps its focus on accounting, information technology, and financial analysis. That is, an MSA does not include many, if any, courses from the humanities curriculum. Your degree will have a laser-focus on quantitative analysis.

Master of Healthcare Administration with a Specialization in Accounting (MHA): If you've already landed a job in the healthcare industry, you may wish to pursue an MHA. The curriculum will include a core group of healthcare management courses, but then you can major in accounting as it pertains to healthcare.

Admission Requirements


Admission's requirements for your online master's degree in accounting can vary widely. However, you will want to provide an application packet that includes your practical accounting experience in addition to your academic background, including your undergraduate GPA. You should provide a transcript from a nationally accredited business school and proof of any certifications or licenses you have achieved, including a CPA license. You should strive to submit transcripts with the highest possible GPA, as most schools will need to see a minimum GPA of 2.5 or above to admit you. You will also need to provide GRE scores that meet the program's standards, provide letters of recommendation, and possibly an entrance essay.


What to Expect From an Online Degree

An online Master's degree offers flexibility and convenience, allowing students to balance education with work and personal commitments. Expect a rigorous curriculum that mirrors traditional in-person programs, with courses delivered through virtual platforms. You'll engage in interactive discussions, complete assignments, and collaborate with peers and professors remotely. Online Master's programs often provide accelerated options, allowing you to complete your degree on a faster timeline. While the format is flexible, be prepared to manage your time effectively and stay disciplined, as online learning requires self-motivation and organization.

How long does it take to earn a master’s degree?


If you attend full-time, you can complete a master's degree in accounting in as little as twelve months. Other programs, such as an MBA, might take longer – up to two years or more. You can always take more time if needed, but most online and on-campus programs have restrictions on how long you can take. For that reason, try to make education your priority. Attend classes on a full-time basis and make sure to do loads of networking at departmental parties. After all, no one can ever take your education from you, and it just might be the ticket to a far brighter future.

    Common Coursework in an online master accounting degree:
  • Financial accounting
  • Financial reporting
  • Financial statement analysis
  • Forensic accounting
  • Cost accounting
  • International accounting
  • Prepare financial statements
  • Business law
  • Nonprofit accounting
  • Accounting principles
  • Accounting fundamentals
  • Advanced financial accounting topics
  • Management accounting
  • Public accounting
  • Corporate finance
  • Financial planning
  • Small business accounting
  • Accounting principles
  • Financial operations
  • Tax compliance
  • Tax liability
  • Tax law

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Potential Careers in Accounting with a Master’s


    Accounting professionals that have completed an online accounting master's programs can find rewarding careers in the financial field with many different companies. By completing an accounting degree program at this level, you will stand out among other candidates applying for the same position.

  • Investment Banker – Associate:
    It's practically unheard of to reach the Associate level in investment banking without a master's degree, preferably an MBA from a top-10 school. This field is very competitive and hardworking, but you'll find that the median salary of $80,200 is supplemented with a healthy annual bonus. If you work hard and are successful as an associate, you will likely move into a V.P. position before you know it.
  • Chief Financial Officer:
    Most C-level positions require a master's level degree on top of a strong track record. You might consider attaining a CPA license or certificate (if state rules provide for a certificate) on top of your graduate degree. CFOs are frequently well compensated. Median salary for a CFO is $136,100, before benefits and bonus.
  • Management Consultant:
    Many fresh graduates decide to work for a management consulting firm for a period after their schooling is over. This field not only pays well but will also provide you with the experience you need to decide where you would like to focus your professional energies. On the other hand, many graduate degree holders make consulting their life's work. Consider that the median salary, before benefits and bonus, is $87,700.
  • Forensic Accountant:
    This is an exciting field for those who love solving puzzles and creating solutions for a range of clients that spans from law enforcement investigators to divorce attorneys. Now that white collar crime is gaining more attention, the field for forensic accountants is growing. With a master's degree in accounting, plus a post certificate in accounting, you are looking at a field that boasts a median salary of: $69,300.
  • Financial Planner:
    If you are fascinated with finance and wish to help people turn their savings into true wealth, this path may be for you. Though you can join this profession with an undergraduate degree and a Series 7 license, a Master's degree in Accounting will give you the credentials you need to land top clients. Though median salary for this profession is $63,400, the sky is the limit for a top accountant.
  • Certified Management Accountant:
    A certified management accountant (CMA) is a professional designation awarded to accounting professionals who have met specific requirements in education, experience, and examination. The CMA designation is granted by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), which is a global organization that provides support and resources for accounting and finance professionals.

What You Need to Become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA)


A certified public accountant is a qualified accountant who is licensed to provide accounting services to the public. This professional designation is equivalent to the title of chartered accountant. The certification ensures that an individual has the best training and is qualified to provide accounting services to the public. The CPA certification is one of the most widely recognized credentials in the accounting profession. You can become a CPA by taking the CPA exam.

You do not need a master of science accounting degree in order to sit for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam. You do however need to have completed your undergraduate bachelor's degree in accounting in order to take the certified public accountant exam. Graduate accounting programs can assist with advancing your knowledge or specialization within the accounting field and can help prepare you even more to take the CPA exam.

The educational requirements to become a CPA vary from state to state, but most states require a bachelor's degree in accounting or related fields and at least 30 semester hours of additional coursework to be eligible for the CPA exam. Most students satisfy the education requirements with an accounting major, although they can also complete an advanced degree in accounting or a master's degree.

Frequently Asked Questions


Are you going to need to complete a GMAT to gain entry to a master’s program?

While school’s are slowly moving away from requiring standardized tests for entry into programs, many accounting programs at this level are still requiring prospective students to complete a GMAT in order to prove that they will be able to survive and thrive in the master’s program.

What is a master of accounting called?

To be fair, there are several names that are used to refer to master’s level accounting programs. Each school chooses their curriculum and also chooses what title graduating students will earn when they complete their program. While it might not have much affect on your eventual work prospects and opportunities, you might prefer one program over another because of its focus. For instance, an accounting master’s focuses less on business than an MBA with a concentration in accounting. And accounting master’s might be called a Master of Science in Accounting, a Master of Accountancy, or a Master of Professional Accountancy depending on the school you choose to attend.

What classes might you take in a master of accountancy?

  • Business Ethics
  • Business Law
  • Business Information Systems
  • Commercial Law
  • Financial Reporting
  • Legal Obligations
  • Macroeconomics
  • Microeconomics
  • Money and Banking
  • Taxation and Taxation Theory

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