Master of Science in Accounting
Excel with an Online Master’s in AccountingProgram Overview
The Master of Science in Accounting from Post University offers students:
- Graduate-Level Curriculum:This program covers a wide range of advanced accounting principles, practices, and technologies. Students will be given learning opportunities to explore topics such as auditing, international accounting, taxation, nonprofit and governmental accounting, and enterprise risk management to help gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of accounting in today’s business environment.
- Flexibility: Post University’s Master of Science in Accounting program provides flexibility for working professionals with online courses and part-time study options. This learning flexibility allows students to balance their studies with work and other commitments, helping to make participating in a graduate degree program more achievable.
- Experienced Faculty: The program is led by faculty with real-world experience in the field of accounting. They are able to bring a wealth of industry insights to the classroom, providing students with practical knowledge and skills that are relevant to today’s accounting practices.
- ACBSP Accreditation: Post University’s Master of Science in Accounting program is programmatically accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, a testament to the high academic quality and rigor of the program.
- CPA Track – This program offers a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) track featuring personalized instructor support and six study labs in addition to program courses for those who wish to prepare to take the Uniform CPA Examination and pursue the CPA designation.
Coursework for your Master of Science in Accounting online covers how to identify solutions to business problems through the close examination of relevant, data-driven accounting information. You will have the chance to explore how to apply accounting and auditing best practices. From business development to sales, customer service, and networking, you could strengthen your overall understanding of essential business and accounting principles—areas that could have an impact on accounting and your goals for the degree.
Curriculum
Program Requirements: 30-36 Total Credits
Master of Science in Accounting Technical Courses: 18 credits
Master of Science in Accounting Management Courses: 9 Credits
Master of Science in Accounting Capstone: 3 credits
Master of Science in Accounting CPA Track: 6 Credits
Industry-Focused Curriculum for Professional Skills
- Examine advanced accounting analysis and the use of technology to support data-informed accounting and auditing practices.
- Explore global perspectives that influence accounting activities, organizational leadership, and financial decision-making.
- Review ethical frameworks and professional standards that guide responsible accounting practices.
- Study business process management concepts and operational evaluation approaches used in organizational environments.
- Consider collaborative strategies and team-based approaches used within accounting and business settings.
- Analyze communication methods used to present accounting research, financial analyses, and technical information in professional contexts.
Sample Courses
Research and Writing for the Accounting Profession
This course involves the application of accounting research utilizing the various accounting/auditing/tax standards and databases and the preparation of written communications in a manner consistent with best practices in the accounting profession. Prerequisite for all other MSA courses.
Advanced Topics in Taxes
This course provides coverage of tax issues relating to individual and business entities with an emphasis on tax research and developing a defensible outcome.
Enterprise Risk Management (ERM)
This course includes the systems, methods and processes used by organizations to manage risk. The use of various Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) frameworks that identify risks and assess them in terms of magnitude and likelihood of the occurrence are studied. Strategies to control and mitigate that risk are discussed. Concepts of internal control, strategic planning, and the Sarbanes-Oxley Act when dealing with risk are integrated in the course.
Current Topics in Accounting (Capstone)
This course integrates the topics covered within the MSA program. It focuses on the understanding, options and application of current accounting situations. It is the program’s capstone course and will include utilizing research to solve accounting case studies and “in the news” accounting dilemmas.
The sample courses listed are intended to illustrate the types of coursework included in this program. Course offerings and requirements may change. Please consult the official University Catalog for current and complete program information.
Licensing Disclosure
Licensure and Program Disclosures
The Master of Science in Accounting degree may be used to partially fulfill Certified Public Accountant (CPA) education requirements. The program is not designed, however, to fulfill CPA education requirements in any specific or individual state.
Post University assists in researching and providing information regarding licensure; however, each state has different requirements for such licensure outside of the required education. Such state requirements may include licensure exams, background checks, certain work experience, and more. It is ultimately the responsibility of each student to manage their own licensure process and to ensure that all requirements are met in order for the student to obtain licensure. Post University does not speak on behalf of any licensing board or body and does not guarantee licensure. Requirements for licensure are subject to change without notice.
The following table shows whether Post University, with completion of the appropriate curriculum, does or does not fulfill the educational requirements for a specific license:
Visit the University Catalog >> for Curriculum, Course Descriptions, and Program Outcomes.
“We know that every student has different aspirations, different backgrounds, different challenges, and different learning styles, and it requires individual solutions for each and every student. Every associate, staff, and faculty member is uniquely focused on that personal interaction.”
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The admissions team is available to walk you through each step of the application process and clarify any remaining questions.
Accreditation
Institutional Accreditation
College (University) is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (formerly the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc.). Inquiries regarding the accreditation status by the Commission should be directed to the administrative staff of the institution. Individuals may also contact:
New England Commission of Higher Education
301 Edgewater Place, Suite 210, Wakefield, MA 01880
(781) 425 7785
E-Mail: [email protected]
For more information on Post University's state licensure or accreditation, please visit the Accreditation page.
Graduate Admissions Requirements
Post University maintains consistent graduate admissions standards for students enrolling online or on campus. While individual programs may include additional criteria, all applicants are evaluated using foundational requirements that support academic readiness and program alignment.
Common graduate admissions requirements include:
- Completion of a graduate admissions application
- Submission of official transcripts from all previously attended postsecondary institutions
- Documentation of a conferred bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution or an approved equivalent
- Participation in an admissions interview or advisory session, if recommended
- Submission of a personal statement, when requested, which may be required for applicants below a specified cumulative grade point average threshold
- Verification of all admissions materials
Graduate admissions requirements may vary by program and learning format. For complete and program-specific requirements, please review:
Why Students Choose Post University
“Post University has been of immense value to my life through its distance education.”
Tuition & Ways to Save
An education at Post University is designed to provide long-term value. Tuition is competitively structured, and financial aid opportunities are available for those who qualify. Admissions and financial aid teams work with you to review available options and explain each step of the process clearly.
With multiple funding opportunities available, you may qualify for more than you expect.
Tuition Reductions →
Tuition reductions are available for eligible active-duty military service members, veterans, public safety professionals, education partners, alumni, and others who qualify.
Scholarships →
Post University offers a variety of institutional scholarships. Dedicated scholarship advisors assist students in identifying both institutional and relevant external scholarship opportunities.
Financial Aid →
Federal financial aid programs are available for many degree programs for students who qualify.
Transfer Credits →
Post University will evaluate course credit completed at eligible institutions, as well as credit earned through approved examinations or prior learning experiences, for potential transfer.
Military Benefits →
Military education benefits extend to active-duty service members, reservists, veterans, their families, and eligible Department of Defense civilian employees.
Student Loans →
Federal and private loan programs may be available to students who qualify.
Tuition Reductions →
Tuition reductions are available for eligible active-duty military service members, veterans, public safety professionals, education partners, alumni, and others who qualify.
Scholarships →
Post University offers a variety of institutional scholarships. Dedicated scholarship advisors assist students in identifying both institutional and relevant external scholarship opportunities.
Financial Aid →
Federal financial aid programs are available for many degree programs for students who qualify.
Transfer Credits →
Post University will evaluate course credit completed at eligible institutions, as well as credit earned through approved examinations or prior learning experiences, for potential transfer.
Military Benefits →
Military education benefits extend to active-duty service members, reservists, veterans, their families, and eligible Department of Defense civilian employees.
Student Loans →
Federal and private loan programs may be available to students who qualify.
Ready to take the next steps?
Admissions advisors are available to answer your questions, explain the application process, and help you explore which program aligns with your interests and experience.
If you are considering Post University, we invite you to begin the conversation.
Why Post University?
At Post University, you are not an anonymous face in a crowded lecture hall. You are known and supported from your first conversation through program completion. That is the meaning behind Post Makes It Personal®.
Our approach is grounded in three commitments: career focus, value, and personalization. Whether you are beginning your undergraduate journey, returning to continue your education, or pursuing a graduate degree, Post University offers programs developed with professional practice in mind, led by industry-experienced faculty, and delivered in formats designed to fit into your life.
Post people come from many different backgrounds and life stages. Some are stepping onto campus for the first time, while others are learning online while balancing work, family, military service, or community commitments. Across every format, students are part of a community built on connection, structure, and shared purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Can I Do With an Online Master’s in Accounting?
Upon completion of this online Master of Science in Accounting program, you will have the opportunity to develop problem solving skills, communicate effectively, and think ethically. This Master of Science in Accounting could help you explore opportunities in the fields of accounting, auditing, risk management, taxation, non-profit, and governmental accounting in any number of industries.
Is It Worth Getting a Master's Degree in Accounting Online?
It may well be. Earning a Post University Master of Science in Accounting online may be worth it for many reasons, from honing accounting skills and knowledge to perhaps expanding opportunities down the line in your career.
How Many Years is a Master's Degree in Accounting?
The Master of Science in Accounting at Post University requires 30 credit hours (36 credit hours for the CPA-Track) and typically takes 20 months to complete.
To learn more about degree requirements view the course catalog.
Is a CPA Equivalent to a Master's Degree?
No. A master’s degree in accounting could be an important step on the journey to becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) by helping to meet educational requirements required for licensure, but you can become a CPA in many states without a master’s degree, and can earn a master’s degree in accounting without becoming a CPA.
Holding CPA licensure could help demonstrate accounting proficiency through education, examination, and experience.
Post University also offers a specialized CPA track for the MSA consisting of labs to help prepare for the exam. Personalized instructor support is provided while students are going through the labs in prep.
What Certification is Best for Accounting?
First things first, certification does not equal a credential. If you are looking for relevant credential opportunities for the accounting field, there are several you could pursue, including Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), and Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE). Which credential you choose to pursue depends on which path you would like to take in the accounting field. The Post University Master of Science in Accounting is not designed to fulfill certification or licensure requirements, but it may be used to partially fulfill them.
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