2024 Best Masters In Accounting Programs

The University of Texas at Austin’s McCombs School of Business offers a top-tier Master of Professional Accounting (MPA) program. Known for its rigorous academic structure and excellent faculty, this program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a mark of distinction in business education. The MPA can be completed in as little as 10 months for students with an accounting background, or in a more flexible two-year format for those requiring additional coursework. The program is designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of accounting principles, financial reporting, auditing, and taxation, preparing them for high-level careers in accounting and finance.

The estimated cost for in-state students is around $21,000 per year, while out-of-state students can expect to pay approximately $40,000 annually. These costs do not include fees, textbooks, or living expenses.

McCombs’ MPA program is highly ranked due to its comprehensive curriculum, strong connections to the accounting industry, and outstanding employment outcomes. The school’s dedicated Career Services team helps students secure internships and full-time roles with prestigious firms such as Deloitte, PwC, and Ernst & Young. The program also offers specialized tracks in audit, taxation, and consulting, allowing students to tailor their education to their career goals. With access to an extensive alumni network, McCombs provides a robust support system to help students succeed both academically and professionally.

The University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business offers a highly esteemed Master of Accounting (MAcc) program that is AACSB-accredited, ensuring students receive world-class education and training. The program can be completed in one year, providing an accelerated path to a successful career in accounting. It emphasizes both technical proficiency and leadership skills, with a curriculum that covers accounting, finance, and strategic business management. Ross integrates practical learning experiences such as case competitions and consulting projects, giving students real-world exposure while developing essential soft skills.

For Michigan residents, the estimated tuition cost is around $48,000 per year, while non-residents can expect to pay approximately $63,000 annually. This tuition estimate does not include additional fees or living expenses.

The Ross MAcc program stands out for its commitment to developing not only accounting expertise but also leadership qualities in its students. The program’s strong connections to industry leaders ensure excellent internship and employment opportunities with firms such as PwC, Deloitte, and KPMG. Michigan Ross is also known for its global network, with alumni in influential positions across major accounting firms and corporations. The program provides tailored career coaching, enhancing student readiness for a variety of career paths. Ross’s holistic approach to education and career development makes it an ideal choice for aspiring accounting professionals.

New York University’s Stern School of Business offers a prestigious Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) program, accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). The program can be completed in 12 to 16 months and provides a deep dive into advanced accounting topics, including financial reporting, auditing, and taxation, with a strong emphasis on the strategic role of accounting in business decision-making. The Stern MSA curriculum is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the accounting industry while also offering the flexibility to pursue careers in finance, consulting, or entrepreneurship. The program leverages NYU’s location in the heart of New York City, providing students access to leading global firms and networking opportunities.

The estimated tuition for the Stern MSA program is approximately $80,000 per year, not including additional fees, books, or living expenses.

Stern’s MSA program is renowned for its academic rigor and excellent career prospects. The program offers students unique advantages, including access to NYU’s extensive alumni network and proximity to some of the world’s largest accounting firms, multinational corporations, and financial institutions. Stern’s career services are highly regarded, providing personalized coaching and access to top employers. Students benefit from a global perspective, learning from faculty members with vast industry experience and engaging with a diverse cohort of peers. The program is perfect for individuals looking to make a significant impact in accounting and finance.

The University of Southern California’s Marshall School of Business offers a top-ranked Master of Business Taxation (MBT) program, providing a comprehensive education in accounting and taxation. The program is AACSB-accredited, ensuring rigorous academic standards and industry recognition. Students can complete the MBT in as little as one year, though part-time options are available for those who wish to balance work and study. The curriculum focuses on taxation, financial accounting, and strategic management, preparing graduates for senior roles in accounting and finance. USC Marshall’s proximity to the business and entertainment hubs of Los Angeles offers students valuable opportunities for internships and networking with top companies.

The estimated tuition for the MBT program is approximately $68,000 per year, not including fees, books, or living expenses.

USC Marshall stands out for its unique blend of accounting expertise and business acumen, preparing students to succeed in a variety of fields, including tax consulting, auditing, and corporate finance. The program is recognized for its high-quality faculty, many of whom have deep industry experience. Students benefit from strong connections with alumni and local employers, particularly in the dynamic sectors of entertainment, media, and technology. With its global perspective and emphasis on practical, hands-on learning, the MBT program at USC offers a robust education for aspiring accounting professionals.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers a renowned Master of Accounting Science (MAS) program through its Gies College of Business. This AACSB-accredited program provides students with a comprehensive education in accounting, auditing, taxation, and financial management. The MAS program is designed to be completed in one year for full-time students, with an option for part-time study for those already in the workforce. Students can also benefit from specialized tracks in areas such as financial reporting and analytics. With access to cutting-edge research and a highly collaborative learning environment, students are well-prepared for leadership roles in the accounting profession.

The estimated tuition for in-state students is around $30,000 per year, while out-of-state students can expect to pay approximately $55,000 annually. These costs do not include additional fees, textbooks, or living expenses.

The MAS program at the University of Illinois is widely regarded for its academic rigor and strong reputation in the accounting field. The Gies College of Business is known for producing top-notch graduates who are highly sought after by leading accounting firms such as Deloitte, PwC, and EY. The program offers students personalized career coaching, internship opportunities, and access to a powerful alumni network. Additionally, Illinois’ strong connections to major firms and companies, particularly in the Midwest, make it an excellent choice for those looking to pursue a career in public accounting, corporate finance, or consulting.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Kenan-Flagler Business School offers a distinguished Master of Accounting (MAC) program, accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). The program is designed to be completed in one year for full-time students, with an option for part-time study for working professionals. The curriculum covers a wide range of accounting topics, including financial accounting, auditing, and taxation, while also emphasizing the development of leadership, communication, and analytical skills. UNC’s strong focus on ethical business practices and strategic decision-making equips students for success in the global accounting industry.

The estimated tuition for the Kenan-Flagler MAC program is around $45,000 per year for in-state students and approximately $61,000 per year for out-of-state students, not including additional fees, textbooks, or living expenses.

The MAC program at UNC is highly regarded for its strong academic foundation and comprehensive career services. Kenan-Flagler boasts a high job placement rate, with many graduates going on to work at top accounting firms like PwC, EY, and Deloitte. Students benefit from the school’s close-knit community and extensive alumni network, which provides invaluable mentorship and career support. The program also offers a diverse range of electives and specialized courses, allowing students to customize their education to align with their career goals. UNC’s emphasis on innovation, leadership, and ethical practices makes this program a great choice for those looking to make an impact in the accounting profession.

The University of Virginia’s McIntire School of Commerce offers a distinguished Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) program, accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). The program can be completed in as little as 10 months, offering an accelerated pathway for students seeking to advance quickly in their careers. The curriculum provides a strong foundation in accounting principles, financial analysis, and business strategy, with opportunities for specialized coursework in areas such as auditing, taxation, and forensic accounting. The McIntire MSA program is renowned for its emphasis on both technical knowledge and leadership development, preparing graduates to tackle complex accounting challenges in various industries.

The estimated tuition for the McIntire MSA program is approximately $58,000 per year, not including additional fees, books, or living expenses.

The McIntire MSA program stands out for its blend of rigorous academics, experiential learning, and strong industry connections. With its top-tier faculty and collaborative approach to teaching, McIntire provides students with the tools to succeed in the fast-paced world of accounting. The program boasts a high job placement rate, with many graduates securing roles with prestigious firms such as Deloitte, PwC, and KPMG. Additionally, the small, tight-knit cohort allows for personalized career support and mentoring. UVA’s strong alumni network further enhances career opportunities, and the program’s proximity to Washington, D.C. provides students with access to key business and governmental organizations.

The University of California, Berkeley’s Haas School of Business offers a prestigious Master of Financial Engineering (MFE) program with a focus on accounting, finance, and quantitative methods. This program is AACSB-accredited and typically takes 12 to 16 months to complete, providing students with the flexibility to tailor their studies to their professional goals. The curriculum integrates accounting principles with financial analysis, modeling, and risk management. Berkeley Haas is renowned for its innovative teaching approach, combining theoretical foundations with real-world application through case studies, simulations, and internships. Students also benefit from the school’s strong focus on leadership development and ethical decision-making in finance.

The estimated tuition for the Haas MFE program is approximately $74,000 per year, not including additional fees, textbooks, or living expenses.

The Haas MFE program is ideal for students seeking a blend of accounting and financial engineering expertise. Known for its academic rigor, the program provides students with a solid understanding of both financial accounting and quantitative financial techniques. The school’s location in the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area, a global finance and technology hub, offers unparalleled networking and internship opportunities with top companies such as Google, Goldman Sachs, and JPMorgan. Haas’ emphasis on innovation, collaboration, and leadership ensures that graduates are well-equipped to become leaders in finance, accounting, or consulting.

The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Anderson School of Management offers a prestigious Master of Financial Engineering (MFE) program with a strong focus on accounting, finance, and quantitative methods. Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), this program is designed to equip students with advanced skills in financial accounting, investment analysis, risk management, and financial modeling. The program can be completed in 15 to 21 months, offering both full-time and part-time options to cater to students’ individual schedules. UCLA Anderson is known for its cutting-edge curriculum, which combines academic theory with hands-on learning through internships, case studies, and consulting projects.

The estimated tuition for the UCLA Anderson MFE program is approximately $68,000 per year, excluding fees, books, and living expenses.

The UCLA Anderson MFE program is highly regarded for its rigorous academic environment and strong industry connections, particularly in the heart of Los Angeles, a global hub for finance, entertainment, and technology. Students gain access to exceptional career opportunities and internships with major companies such as JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs, and Google. UCLA Anderson’s renowned faculty members, who are leaders in finance and accounting, bring real-world expertise to the classroom. The program’s emphasis on collaboration, analytical skills, and leadership ensures that graduates are well-prepared to excel in a variety of financial and accounting roles. Additionally, UCLA’s extensive alumni network offers ongoing career support and mentorship.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison offers a well-regarded Master of Accountancy (MAcc) program through its Wisconsin School of Business. Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), this program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of accounting principles, financial reporting, auditing, and taxation. The MAcc program can be completed in one year for full-time students, with a part-time option available for those already working in the industry. The curriculum includes opportunities for hands-on learning through internships, case studies, and a range of elective courses, allowing students to tailor their education to their career goals. Wisconsin-Madison’s strong focus on leadership and ethical business practices prepares graduates for positions in public accounting, corporate finance, and beyond.

The estimated tuition for in-state students is approximately $25,000 per year, while out-of-state students can expect to pay about $42,000 annually. Additional costs for fees, textbooks, and living expenses are not included.

The MAcc program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison stands out for its robust academic curriculum, exceptional faculty, and strong connections to the accounting industry. Students have access to the school’s extensive alumni network and career services, which provide job placement assistance and networking opportunities with top accounting firms such as Deloitte, PwC, and KPMG. The program is known for producing highly skilled graduates who are well-prepared for leadership roles in accounting and finance. Wisconsin-Madison’s emphasis on ethical decision-making, collaboration, and professional development makes it a top choice for aspiring accountants.

Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business offers a highly regarded Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) program, accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). The program can be completed in one year for full-time students, or part-time for those balancing work and study. The curriculum covers essential accounting topics such as financial reporting, auditing, taxation, and management accounting, with the option to specialize in areas like data analytics or forensic accounting. Students gain practical experience through internships and case competitions, and the program’s strong focus on leadership and strategic decision-making enhances their readiness for senior roles in accounting.

The estimated tuition for the MSA program is around $35,000 per year for Indiana residents, while out-of-state students can expect to pay approximately $50,000 annually. These costs exclude fees, books, and living expenses.

The MSA program at Kelley is known for its academic rigor, strong industry connections, and excellent job placement rate. Kelley’s alumni network is vast, providing students with access to a wide range of opportunities at top firms such as Deloitte, PwC, and EY. The program’s combination of technical training and leadership development ensures that graduates are well-equipped for roles in public accounting, corporate finance, or consulting. Kelley’s commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration, along with its central location in Bloomington, Indiana, makes it a standout choice for students seeking a high-quality accounting education.

The University of Notre Dame’s Mendoza College of Business offers a prestigious Master of Science in Accountancy (MSA) program, accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). This program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of accounting principles, financial reporting, auditing, and taxation. It can be completed in one year for full-time students, and part-time options are also available. Mendoza emphasizes the integration of ethical leadership and responsible decision-making, ensuring students are not only skilled accountants but also leaders who are committed to making a positive impact in the business world. The program includes a variety of experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and networking events, designed to give students practical exposure to the accounting field.

The estimated tuition for the MSA program at Notre Dame is approximately $58,000 per year, not including additional fees, textbooks, or living expenses.

The Mendoza MSA program is renowned for its academic rigor, strong ethical focus, and the outstanding reputation of Notre Dame’s business school. The program offers small class sizes, allowing for personalized attention and strong relationships between students and faculty. With access to a powerful network of alumni and a high job placement rate, Mendoza graduates often go on to secure roles with top firms such as PwC, EY, and Deloitte. The school’s emphasis on leadership, ethics, and service distinguishes the program, making it an excellent choice for students aiming to excel in the accounting profession.

The Ohio State University Fisher College of Business offers a highly regarded Master of Accounting (MAcc) program, accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). This program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive foundation in accounting principles, auditing, taxation, and financial reporting. The MAcc program typically takes one year to complete for full-time students, and part-time options are also available for working professionals. Fisher emphasizes practical experience and critical thinking, with opportunities for students to work on real-world projects, internships, and case studies. The program also provides students with a strong focus on ethical decision-making and leadership, preparing them for success in the global accounting industry.

The estimated tuition for the MAcc program is approximately $34,000 per year for Ohio residents and around $57,000 for out-of-state students, excluding fees, textbooks, and living expenses.

Fisher College of Business is known for its strong academic reputation, excellent faculty, and comprehensive career services that help students secure jobs with top accounting firms such as Deloitte, PwC, and EY. The MAcc program’s integration of accounting fundamentals with practical, hands-on experience ensures that graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles in accounting and finance. Ohio State’s central location in Columbus also offers access to a thriving job market, with many opportunities in finance, corporate accounting, and public accounting. The program’s emphasis on ethical business practices and strategic leadership makes it an excellent choice for those looking to excel in the accounting profession.

The University of Florida’s Warrington College of Business offers a Master of Accounting (MAcc) program that is designed to prepare students for successful careers in accounting. Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), this program provides a comprehensive education in financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and management accounting. Students can complete the program in as little as one year, with options for full-time and part-time enrollment to fit different schedules. The MAcc program at UF offers opportunities for experiential learning through internships, case studies, and the chance to interact with industry professionals, helping students gain practical, real-world experience.

The estimated tuition for the MAcc program is approximately $30,000 per year for Florida residents and $55,000 per year for out-of-state students. These figures do not include additional fees, textbooks, or living expenses.

The Warrington MAcc program stands out for its strong academic foundation, excellent faculty, and access to a vast network of alumni. With a focus on leadership, ethics, and strategic decision-making, the program prepares students for a wide variety of accounting and finance roles. The University of Florida’s location in Gainesville also provides access to an expansive network of employers, while the school’s strong ties to firms like Deloitte, PwC, and EY offer students valuable internship and career placement opportunities. The program’s blend of rigorous coursework and practical experience ensures that graduates are well-equipped to thrive in the accounting industry.

The University of Washington’s Foster School of Business offers a highly respected Master of Professional Accounting (MPAcc) program, accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). The MPAcc program is designed for students looking to deepen their knowledge in accounting and finance. With both full-time and part-time options, the program can be completed in as little as 9 months for full-time students, and part-time options are available for working professionals. The curriculum includes courses in financial reporting, auditing, taxation, and business ethics, along with a strong emphasis on leadership and strategic decision-making. The program also features hands-on learning opportunities, including internships and a comprehensive accounting research project, giving students real-world experience in the accounting field.

The estimated tuition for the MPAcc program is approximately $31,000 per year for Washington residents, and around $52,000 per year for out-of-state students. This tuition does not include additional fees, books, or living expenses.

Foster’s MPAcc program is well-regarded for its strong academic foundation, exceptional faculty, and focus on real-world applications. Students benefit from the school’s strong ties to top accounting firms like Deloitte, PwC, and KPMG, as well as its extensive alumni network in the Pacific Northwest and beyond. The program emphasizes ethical leadership, professional development, and collaboration, ensuring that graduates are prepared for leadership roles in accounting and business. The location in Seattle also offers students access to a thriving job market and numerous opportunities in accounting and finance.

The University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business offers a Master of Accountancy (MAcc) program that is highly respected and accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). The MAcc program is designed to provide students with in-depth knowledge of accounting principles, auditing, taxation, and financial reporting. The program can be completed in one year for full-time students, with part-time options available for working professionals. Terry emphasizes a hands-on approach to learning, offering experiential opportunities like internships, case studies, and accounting research projects that allow students to apply their skills in real-world settings. The program also focuses on developing leadership skills and ethical decision-making, preparing graduates for success in the global accounting profession.

The estimated tuition for the MAcc program is around $17,000 per year for Georgia residents and approximately $32,000 per year for out-of-state students, not including additional fees, textbooks, or living expenses.

The Terry College of Business offers a well-rounded MAcc program that combines rigorous academics with practical experience. Students benefit from close interaction with experienced faculty and have access to a strong network of alumni and industry professionals, facilitating valuable career opportunities. The program’s robust internship placements and partnerships with top accounting firms like Deloitte, EY, and PwC ensure high job placement rates for graduates. The MAcc program’s focus on leadership, ethics, and strategic thinking distinguishes it as a top choice for students pursuing careers in accounting.

The University of Texas at Dallas’ Naveen Jindal School of Management offers a Master of Science in Accounting (MS Accounting) program, accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). The program is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of accounting principles, auditing, taxation, financial reporting, and business law. Full-time students can complete the program in as little as one year, with part-time options available to accommodate working professionals. Jindal’s curriculum emphasizes the integration of technology and analytics in accounting, ensuring students are prepared for the evolving demands of the profession. Additionally, students can gain valuable hands-on experience through internships, projects, and interactions with industry professionals.

The estimated tuition for the MS Accounting program is approximately $25,000 per year for Texas residents and $40,000 per year for out-of-state students. These figures do not include additional fees, books, or living expenses.

The MS Accounting program at UT Dallas stands out for its strong academic reputation, excellent faculty, and focus on practical, real-world skills. The program’s curriculum is designed to equip students with the technical knowledge, leadership abilities, and ethical framework required to succeed in the accounting profession. The school’s location in the Dallas-Fort Worth area provides students with access to a vibrant job market, with opportunities for internships and employment at top accounting firms such as Deloitte, PwC, and EY. The program also offers a strong network of alumni, enhancing career prospects for graduates.

Boston College’s Carroll School of Management offers a Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) program, accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). The program is designed to provide students with advanced knowledge in accounting, auditing, taxation, and business law, with a strong emphasis on ethical leadership and decision-making. The MSA program typically takes one year to complete for full-time students, with part-time options available for those balancing work and study. Carroll’s curriculum integrates experiential learning opportunities, including internships, projects, and networking events, providing students with a hands-on approach to mastering accounting skills. The program also offers a track for those seeking to meet the educational requirements to sit for the CPA exam.

The estimated tuition for the MSA program at Boston College is approximately $51,000 per year, excluding additional fees, textbooks, or living expenses.

The MSA program at Boston College is highly regarded for its rigorous academic curriculum and its focus on developing ethical, responsible leaders. The Carroll School’s close-knit community and personalized attention from faculty offer students a unique learning experience. Graduates benefit from Boston College’s strong reputation, with access to a powerful alumni network in the finance and accounting sectors. The program’s focus on both technical skills and ethical leadership ensures that students are well-prepared for a successful career in accounting. Additionally, Boston College’s location in Boston provides students with access to a vibrant job market and numerous opportunities for internships and career placement with top accounting firms.

Purdue University’s Krannert School of Management offers a Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) program, accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). The program is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in accounting by providing a solid foundation in financial reporting, auditing, taxation, and accounting information systems. Students can complete the MSA program in as little as one year, with both full-time and part-time options available. Purdue’s curriculum integrates technical accounting knowledge with a focus on leadership, communication, and strategic decision-making. Additionally, students benefit from hands-on learning opportunities through internships, case studies, and connections with top employers in the field.

The estimated tuition for the MSA program is approximately $28,000 per year for Indiana residents and around $42,000 per year for out-of-state students, not including additional fees, textbooks, or living expenses.

Purdue’s Krannert School of Management is known for its strong academic rigor, exceptional faculty, and a robust network of industry connections. The MSA program prepares students for a wide range of accounting roles, from public accounting to corporate finance, and offers a deep focus on ethical leadership and strategic thinking. Purdue’s strong ties to top accounting firms such as Deloitte, PwC, and EY provide students with valuable internship and job placement opportunities. The program’s combination of technical accounting skills and leadership development makes it an excellent choice for those aiming to advance in the accounting field. Additionally, Purdue’s location in West Lafayette offers a collaborative and supportive environment conducive to academic and professional growth.

Pennsylvania State University’s Smeal College of Business offers a Master of Accounting (MAcc) program, accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). The program is designed to prepare students for successful careers in accounting, with a strong focus on financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and business law. Students can complete the MAcc program in one year of full-time study or choose part-time options to accommodate working professionals. The program also offers opportunities to specialize in areas like forensic accounting, and corporate accounting, and provides a pathway to sit for the CPA exam. Smeal’s curriculum emphasizes practical learning, including internships and a capstone project, allowing students to apply their skills to real-world situations.

The estimated tuition for the MAcc program is around $38,000 per year for Pennsylvania residents and approximately $58,000 per year for out-of-state students, not including additional fees, textbooks, or living expenses.

The MAcc program at Penn State Smeal stands out for its strong academic foundation, emphasis on professional development, and access to a powerful alumni network in the accounting field. The program’s focus on leadership, ethics, and strategic thinking ensures that graduates are well-equipped for high-level accounting positions. Penn State’s close connections with top accounting firms such as Deloitte, PwC, and EY provide students with valuable internship opportunities and high job placement rates. Additionally, the program’s robust curriculum and focus on real-world applications prepare students for both the CPA exam and a wide variety of career paths in accounting.