Enrollment Requirements for an Accounting Master’s Program
One of the nicest aspects of earning your degree online is that most institutions offer at least four start dates every year, providing you more time to prepare before applying.
Each institution has its entrance standards; however, below are some of the most common prerequisites for applying for a master’s degree in accounting:
a bachelor’s degree in any field
If you do not have a bachelor’s degree in accounting, business administration, or finance, you must have completed courses in financial accounting, taxation, statistics, microeconomics, and others.
GRE or GMAT test results (some institutions may waive this requirement upon passing an interview if you have five years or more of work experience or a high GPA)
A duplicate of your resume
A statement of purpose (this should explain why you want to apply to that particular program and how it could benefit you)
two personal recommendations
a little work experience
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Popular Accounting Graduate Degree Specializations
Specializations allow you to narrow your attention and expand your expertise in a certain area or field. They can be especially useful if you already know what professional route you want to take in accounting, as they can make you more appealing to recruiters in that field.
The following are some of the most popular specialties available in a master’s degree in accounting:
Tax accounting is a specialization for persons who value organization and precision. You will learn how to prepare local, state, and federal tax returns, as well as all of the rules and regulations that are required to keep companies compliant.
Supply chain management is for you if you’re preoccupied with planning and logistics. This specialization will teach you about inventory valuation, the cost of goods sold, and budgeting.
Economics and finance – this concentration is for individuals who wish to work in the markets and work for banks or investment organizations. You will learn how financial markets work, manage a portfolio, and analyze risk, among other things.
Forensic accounting and fraud examination – if you’re looking for a blend of accounting and investigation work at the FBI, this is the specialization for you. You will learn the fundamentals of accounting, as well as the law and how to handle evidence.
How much will it set you back?
The cost per credit hour varies from institution to school. For example, Purdue University Global costs graduate students $485 per credit hour for one of the cheapest online master’s degrees in accounting. Meanwhile, UNC’s Kenan-Flagler Business School, one of the best in the country, charges more than $1,400 per credit hour. On the other hand, students at UNC have access to more resources than the typical online student, such as webinars, tailored career advice, and experiences such as global immersions to key business centers in countries such as Shanghai, Buenos Aires, and London.
A master’s degree in accounting typically consists of 36 credit hours. This means that your degree might cost anywhere from $17,460 to more than $50,000. This excludes application, registration, and technology fees. Other costs to consider include the GRE or GMAT exam (if required by the college) and books, and other supplies.
