Accounting is one of the most important parts of any business which is why individuals who successfully complete accounting degree programs in Illinois and other states are in high demand.
Accounting tracks all the money that comes into and goes out of an organization. Accountants closely monitor transactions recorded as part of the day-to-day operation of a business. They also analyze patterns and help compute payroll as well as taxes for the company.
In 2016, there were over 51,000 accountants and auditors employed in Georgia, earning an average of $76,950 per year. However, with a master’s in accounting, individuals may also be qualified for the following positions in Georgia:
- Budget Analysts – $75,460 per year
- Credit Analysts – $68,000 per year
- Financial Analysts – $96,350 per year
- Financial Examiners – $100,300
- Loan Officers – $74,180 per year
- Personal Financial Advisors – $116,110 per year
- Tax Examiners and Collectors – $72,680 per year
- Tax Preparers – $36,880 per year
Positions in the accounting field are expected to grow as much as 11 percent over the next ten years, faster than other industries. Some of this growth is due to changing federal and state regulations regarding financial records of businesses and individuals. With a master’s degree in accounting, it is easier to stay up-to-date on these changes in order to keep companies in compliance with ever-changing laws.
American Inter-Continental University – Online
Online Campus
The Online Campus at American Inter-Continental University gives students access to a full-range of services no matter what time the student needs to access the service or where they are when they need to do so. Students are able to view course content, communicate with professors, access a full digital library and take part in group projects from anywhere in the world. This makes the Online Campus very attractive to working adults who may be unable to attend traditional classes or those who travel for work as well as those in the military.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) Degree with a Specialization in Accounting
The Master of Business Administration with an Accounting Specialization at American Inter-Continental University provides students with industry relevant information as well as advanced knowledge in the field of accounting. The master’s in accounting degree program in Illinois provides students with a global perspective in economics and financial management. Students also learn how to approach management strategically, develop plans to improve business operations and how to solve complex problems related to the financial management of a company.
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association
- Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
Contact
American InterContinental University
231 North Martingdale Road
Schaumburg IL 60173
Telephone: 677-701-3800
Aurora University
Aurora University is dedicated to the transformative power of learning, providing students with a wide range of programs found in large university, but with the personal attention of a small college. Faculty members are accessible and award-winning. The college offers partnerships in the local community that provide students with hands-on learning opportunities. There are also many support services available to guide students throughout their learning experience and far after graduation.
Master of Science in Accountancy
The Master of Science in Accountancy prepares students for the professional practice of financial accounting. The program offers a rigorous curriculum that provides an understanding of cost, financial and managerial accounting. The master’s in accounting degree program in Illinois is based on the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants framework which prepares students for the Uniform Certified Public Accountant Examination as well as the Certified Management Accountant Examination. Students are able to think beyond numbers and examine relevant applications as well as the theory behind ethical practices in accounting. Students develop critical-thinking skills and are able to apply the foundations of accounting to problems they encounter in practice.
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission
Contact
Aurora University
347 South Gladstone Avenue
Aurora IL 60506-4892
Telephone: 630-844-5533
Benedictine University
Daniel L. Goodwin College of Business
The Daniel L. Goodwin College of Business at Benedictine University is named after a local real estate executive, Daniel L. Goodwin, in recognition of his generosity and philanthropic support of the university. The college has a foundation in Benedictine values as well as global experiences that are part of the degree program. Students are prepared for leadership positions in the professional world. Benedictine University is a Catholic University that follows the Benedictine Tradition, which was founded in 1887.
Master of Science in Accountancy
The Master of Science in Accountancy, offered on campus through the Goodwin College of Business at Benedictine University, is designed for students who have obtained an undergraduate business degree but have little or no previous accounting experience. Students who enter the master’s in accounting degree program in Illinois seek to enhance their skills through mentorship, networking and portfolio enhancement. The curriculum offers a sequence of courses that emphasize the skills necessary in a professional accountant and prepares students for the United States Uniform Certified Public Accountant, Certified Management Accountant or Certified Internal Auditor examinations.
Master of Science in Taxation
The Master of Science in Taxation offered through the Goodwin College of Business at Benedictine University is a new discipline designed to prepare students for managerial roles in the tax department of major corporations, government bodies or private industry. Students develop an understanding of the ever-changing federal and state tax laws as well as tax exposure among global enterprises. Students learn how to lower tax liabilities and improve profitability. The program provides a comprehensive, analytical and theoretical background that helps students make well-grounded decisions related to taxation.
Dual Degrees
Benedictine College offers dual degrees in graduate programs that require 96 to 98 quarter credits ot complete. The college just partnered with The John Marshall Law School to offer dual MBA/JD programs so that students can earn an MBA from Benedictine and a Juris Doctor from the John Marshall Law School. It is fully integrated for students who seek to move ahead in a business environment that is increasingly global. Other dual degrees available at Benedictine University include:
- Master of Business Administration/Master of Science in Accountancy
- Master of Business Administration/Master of Science in Business Analytics
- Master of Business Administration/Master of Science in Management and Organizational Behavior
- Master of Business Administration/Master of Science in Public Health
- Master of Science in Accountancy/Master of Science in Business Analytics
- Master of Science in Management Information Systems/Master of Science in Management and Organizational Behavior
- Master of Science in Management Information Systems/Master of Public Health
- Master of Science in Management and Organizational Behavior/Master of Public Health
Students must apply to both schools separately and meet all admission requirements for both schools as well. Students are able to attend full- or part-time although full-time law students must attend their first year exclusively at John Marshall.
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission
Contact
Benedictine University
Lisle Main Campus
5700 College Road
Lisle IL 60532
Telephone: 630-8209-6000
Bradley University
Foster College of Business
At the Foster College of Business at Bradley University, students gain wisdom as well as experience that prepare them for success in their chosen profession. Students are provided opportunities for internships, participation in student organizations and a senior consulting project that give them hands-on experience. These opportunities also gain an inside look at the world of business today. Students are also provided the opportunity to study abroad, learning from executives in China, India and other global locations.
Accounting
The graduate accounting degree through the Foster College of Business at Bradley University provides students with several options, all of which prepare them for the Certified Public Accountant examination. It is a 30-hour master’s in accounting degree program in Illinois with current accounting practices combined with electives that allow students to personalize their degree. Students can attend full-time, earning the degree in one year or can attend part-time and finish in two years. Students are able to participate in the Bradley Accounting Club as well as the Beta Alpha Psi honor society. Most students complete an internship before they complete the degree.
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Contact
Bradley University
1501 West Bradley Avenue
Peoria IL 61625
Telephone: 309-676-7611
DePaul University
Kellstadt Graduate School of Business
Kellstadt Graduate School of Business at Bradley University offers students more than just the education necessary to succeed The Career Management Center located within the college allows students to work one-on-one with career advisors to help them design a roadmap for success. Up to 93 percent of students are market-ready while 95 percent are employed in a full-time job related to their degree.
Accountancy (MBA)
The Master of Business Administration in Accountancy offered at the Kellstadt Graduate School of Business at DePaul University prepares students for critical decision-making that is part of today’s accounting careers. Students gain an understanding of the theory and concepts, technical knowledge and tools used by the accounting profession. Students gain an understanding of financial transitions within a company and prepares students to sit for the CPA examination.
Accountancy (MSA)
The Master of Science in Accountancy provides students with a challenging curriculum that makes them proficient in topics found on the CPA. Students in the master’s in accounting degree program in Illinois also gain an understanding of the requirements necessary to succeed as a professional accountant. Students gain an understanding of:
- Accounting Information Systems
- Accounting Policy Formulation
- Audit and Regulation
- Business Law
- Financial Accounting Theory and Practice
- Government and Non-Profit Accounting
- Managerial Accounting
- Taxation of Individuals and Corporations
Taxation (MSTAX)
The Master of Science in Taxation integrates an understanding of accounting with the theories of taxation. DePaul University was one of the first to offer an MS in Taxation in the country. The degree is specifically structured for working professionals who want to advance in a current career or move into a new career. Students gain an understanding of tax statutes, tax regulations, related cases and rulings as well as helping them gain an understanding of the complex Internal Revenue Code.
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Contact
DePaul University
1 East Jackson Boulevard
Chicago IL 60604
312-362-8000
Dominican University
Brennan School of Business
The Brennan School of Business offers two Master of Business Administration degrees with seven concentrations and the Master of Science in Accounting. Students may enroll part- or full-time and the program is offered online. The programs have recently been redesigned to ensure that students are well-prepared for the ever-changing business world. Foundation courses are compressed into one-credit courses to make them more efficient and core courses are now based in experiential education. Elective courses have been expanded so students are better able to expand their skills.
Master of Science in Accounting
The Master of Science in Accounting offered through the Brennan School of Business at Dominican University prepares students for leadership roles in accounting. The master’s in accounting degree program in Illinois is designed for students who want to enter the accounting field but do not have an undergraduate background in accounting. Students are provided the coursework necessary to sit for the CPA examination. Students must complete 33 to 39 credits depending on undergraduate coursework.
MBA
The Brennan School of Business offers a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in accounting. Classes in the program are small, allowing faculty to work closely with students. The program was recently redesigned to guarantee that students were prepared for success in today’s business climate. Students are able to analyze problems and communicate clearly while also responding to business challenges.
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Contact
Dominican University
7900 West Division Street
River Forest IL 60305
Telephone: 708-524-6810
Email: business@dom.edu
Website
Eastern Illinois University
Lumpkin College of Business and Applied Sciences
The Lumpkin College of Business and Applied Sciences at Eastern Illinois University provides students with a strong foundation that helps them succeed in their chosen field. Students may choose from 13 majors and 13 concentrations as well as ten undergraduate majors. Students may also complete two degrees in a completely online format while almost all programs offer online courses.
Accountancy Concentration
The MBA with a concentration in accounting offered through the Lumpkin School of Business and Applied Sciences prepares students to meet requirements to sit for the CPA examination. Students with a non-accounting undergraduate degree can complete the Phase I Accounting course to meet the prerequisites. The courses are offered at the Main Campus in Charleston. Students enrolled in the master’s in accounting degree program in Illinois must also complete courses in management, financial accounting standards, advanced auditing and assurance services as well as legal and social environment of business.
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Contact
Eastern Illinois University
600 Lincoln Avenue
Charleston IL 61920-3099
Telephone: 217-581-5000
Governors State University
College of Business
The College of Business at Eastern Illinois University offers 12 undergraduate and three graduate degree programs. The college partners with various organizations to offer services and programs throughout the area, including the International Trade Center. Faculty is dedicated to helping students succeed throughout their educational journey and beyond.
Master of Science in Accounting
The Master of Science in Accounting offered through the College of Business at Governors State University prepares students for success in a field where expertise is required. Students acquire technical as well as analytical skills. Students in the master’s in accounting degree program in Illinois develop oral and written communication skills as well as the ability to prepare, analyze and verify documents relating to the finances of businesses, organizations, individuals and governments. A bachelor’s degree in accounting is not required although there are prerequisites that must be completed before admission.
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission
- association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Contact
Governors State University
1 University Parkway
University Park IL 60484-0975
Telephone: 708-534-5000
Illinois State University
Graduate School
The Graduate School of Illinois State University offers graduate programs that build on a student’s undergraduate experience. Programs at the Graduate School have national reputations and students are featured in the Redbird Scholar, a magazine featuring research and creative expression. The school is part of a university ranked in the top 100 national public universities by US News & World Report.
Master of Science in Accountancy
The Master of Science in Accountancy offered through the Graduate School at Illinois State University prepares students for professional careers in accounting. The master’s in accounting degree program in Illinois provides them with a wider understanding of the accounting field, expanding on what they learned in undergraduate studies. Graduate courses emphasize accounting literature, critical thinking, case studies, theory and communication, both oral and written. Students must hold a bachelor’s degree or higher in order to apply to the program.
Bachelor of Science/Master of Professional Accountancy
The Bachelor of Science/Master of Professional Accountancy dual degree program is designed for students who desire a career in professional accountancy. Upon completion of the dual degree, students will hold both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Public Accounting. The degree program prepares students to sit for the CPA examination. It is strongly recommended for students who wish to integrate their studies into accounting technology and information systems.
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Contact
Office of Admissions
201 Hovey Hall
Campus Box 2200
Normal IL 61790
Telephone: 309-438-2181
Email: admissions@illinoisstate.edu
Loyola University Chicago
Quinlan School of Business
The Quinlan School of Business at Loyola University Chicago cultivates leaders who are motivated to make a difference in the world, Students are provided advanced study and research programs in the world of business. The school draws on the resources of its location in close proximity to Chicago, providing students with many opportunities for hands-on learning.
Master of Science in Accountancy
The Master of Science in Accountancy emphasizes accounting and responsibility in leadership. Graduates of the master’s in accounting degree program have one of the highest average passing rates in Illinois on the CPA examination. Courses are held weekday evenings at the Water Tower Campus. The program teaches a broad understanding of accounting in small classes, using group projects as well as student-faculty relationships. The program promotes ethics and values while also providing an understanding of the increasing global focus of business and accounting.
MBA/MSA Accounting
The dual Master of Business Administration and Master of Science in Accounting provide students with in-depth knowledge in public as well as financial accounting. Students gain the knowledge necessary to succeed in accounting professions. The program requires four fewer courses than attempting to earn the degree separately. The program is ranked in the top three part-time MBA programs in Chicago by US News & World Report.
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Contact
Loyola University Chicago
1032 West Sheridan Road
Chicago IL 60660
Telephone: 773-274-3000
With accounting positions expected to grow over the next decade, individuals who are able to successfully complete master’s in accounting degree programs in Illinois will find themselves in high demand with employers upon graduation.
Continue here: Master’s in Accounting Degree Programs in Illinois (M-Z)
See also: Top 35 Online Master’s in Accounting Degree Programs 2017
