Can You Get a Master’s in Accounting Part-Time?

Can You Get a Master's in Accounting Part-Time

A Master’s in Accounting is a graduate-level degree that provides students with the tools they need to work in public accounting. Many professionals who have completed their undergraduate accounting coursework but have not yet reached the 150-credit threshold that must be met before sitting for the Uniform Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam. They attend part-time Master in Accounting programs while working at accounting firms or other businesses. You do not need a bachelor’s degree in accounting to get a Master’s in Accounting, though. Many students decide to switch careers and wish to make the transition into the accounting world with no prior business background whatsoever.

Who Can Get a Master’s in Accounting?

Anyone can get a Master’s in Accounting degree with the right background. At a minimum, you need to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited post-secondary institution and letters of recommendation from professors and current or past employers. Most programs also have minimum undergraduate GPA requirements and require their applicants to take the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT).

What Kind of Coursework Will You Complete in a Master’s in Accounting Program?

According to the Indiana University School of Business, most Master’s in Accounting programs require students to complete approximately 30 credits of coursework. Some also require an internship. If you do not have an undergraduate accounting degree, or even if you have no business background at all, never fear. Your school will likely require you to complete several foundational business classes, including:

  • financial accounting
  • marketing
  • corporate finance
  • organizational management
  • statistics, among others.

Once you have these under your belt you’ll be prepared to tackle your Master’s in Accounting program’s core.

Likely courses in a Master’s in Accounting program would include:

  • advanced financial accounting
  • managerial accounting
  • auditing theory and practice
  • introductory tax accounting
  • tax research,
  • corporate tax
  • business law among others

You’ll also need to choose from such electives as

  • financial statement analysis
  • corporate financial strategy
  • accounting periods and method
  • tax law courses covering individuals, corporations, or trusts and estates

Your school may also require you to complete an internship or engage in some other form of experiential learning before graduating. This component is often used as a capstone that allows you to apply your classroom knowledge in a real-world environment.

Making a Part-Time Master’s in Accounting Program Work for You

The key to making a part-time Master’s in Accounting program work for you is finding one that best fits your specific set of personal and professional circumstances. Evening or online class meetings allow the working professional to tailor an academic schedule that will provide maximum flexibility while also ensuring that your degree requirements are being fulfilled. Now that you know what it takes to get a master of accounting part-time, find a program that meets your needs, and start today!

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