An online master’s degree in accounting may teach students advanced skills needed for the accounting and finance profession. In this one to two year program, students may learn how to apply tax concepts to organizations, interpret and use financial reports, and analyze an organization’s cost control environment. Program coursework may include some business-related electives alongside major-specific courses such as managerial accounting, auditing, and financial reporting.

Upon completion of the program, students may seek entry to upper-level employment in an accounting field or enroll in a doctorate degree program. Master’s-level graduates may pursue employment in finance, managerial accounting, public accounting, government entities, risk management, and public accounting.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: Bachelor’s Degree
• Program Length: One to two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Employment or Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 16% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum for master’s-level accounting degree programs may include core accounting courses alongside elective business courses. These courses may teach students how to record and classify cost data, maintain internal control of financial information, and make strategic financial decisions. Core accounting classes may include:

• Cost Accounting
• Financial Reporting
• Business Law
• Auditing
• Accounting Information Systems
• Economic for Business
• Forensic Accounting

Career Options

Graduates of master’s level programs may pursue career opportunities in finance, government, risk management, forensic accounting, and auditing. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities in accounting are expected to increase by 16% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Auditor
• Controller
• Financial Advisor
• Revenue Agent
• Public Accountant

Continuing Education

Those who successfully complete a master’s degree in accounting may wish to further their education by enrolling in a doctorate degree program. A doctorate degree in accounting may provide students enhanced professional knowledge in conceptual models, accounting organizational systems, and legal accounting frameworks. Employers may require individuals to hold a master’s degree at minimum for employment in upper-level accounting positions.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook