A master's degree in accounting can elevate earning potential and support career advancement.
It also meets the credit requirements to become a certified public accountant (CPA). A CPA Journal study found that examinees with graduate accounting degrees have higher success rates on the Uniform CPA Examination.
Find the best master's in accounting programs for your goals, along with admission requirements, courses, and degree costs.
Popular Online Master's Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Graduate Accounting Programs
#1 Best Master’s in Accounting Programs 2025
Vanderbilt University
- Nashville, TN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
Vanderbilt's master of accountancy in assurance stands out for its accelerated schedule, experiential learning opportunities, and job placement record. Students can complete the 37-credit program in as little as 12 months.
During the program, accounting students complete a paid, 11-week internship with a global accounting or professional services firm. This real-world experience prepares learners for the workforce.
Master's students benefit from a high first-time Uniform Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Examination pass rate and a 100% employment rate, with most graduates launching careers at Big Four accounting firms. Incoming students need a strong academic record with prerequisites in financial accounting, managerial accounting, statistics, and microeconomics.
Highlights
- Full-time, one-year program
- 10-week paid internship
- 100% job placement rate within 90 days
Considerations
- Requires GRE or GMAT scores
- Tuition costs $71,250 total for 2024-2025
Percent Online Enrollment
10%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Master’s in Accounting Programs 2025
Florida State University
- Tallahassee, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
FSU's master of accounting program offers flexible tracks for incoming students regardless of their major, with additional coursework for non-accounting majors. Graduate students choose from three specializations to focus their degree: generalist, taxation, and assurance and advisory services.
The accounting curriculum develops quantitative, analytical, and research skills, and the program meets the educational requirements for a CPA license in most states.
Junior accounting majors at FSU can also jump-start their graduate degree by enrolling in the combined BS in accounting and master of accounting pathway. This accelerated program helps students earn both degrees in less time than completing them separately.
Highlights
- Pathways for accounting majors and non-majors
- Affordable in-state graduate tuition rate of $479 per credit
- GRE or GMAT scores optional
Considerations
- Minimum 3.0 GPA in upper-division courses
- Non-accounting majors may need to complete up to 45 undergraduate credits
- Higher out-of-state graduate tuition of $1,111 per credit
Percent Online Enrollment
60%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Best Master’s in Accounting Programs 2025
University of Southern California
- Los Angeles, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
Degree-seekers can choose from multiple master's in accounting programs at USC, including a master of accounting, a master of business taxation, and a master of business taxation for working professionals.
Within the master of accounting program, graduate students can choose from tracks in strategic finance, data and analytics, or professional accounting. The program encourages learners to apply accounting knowledge to case studies, which develops technical knowledge and skills.
The business taxation programs develop specialized taxation knowledge, including the use of analytical data tools. Students in the business taxation program choose 15 credits of electives to customize their degree.
Highlights
- Graduate in as little as two semesters
- Summer intensive program for non-accounting majors
- KPMG MADA scholarship option for auditors
Considerations
- 12 credits in core courses, 18 credits in specialization
- GMAT or GRE scores optional
- Graduate tuition rate of $2,197 per credit
Percent Online Enrollment
34%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#4 Best Master’s in Accounting Programs 2025
University of South Florida
- Tampa, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
Offered at both the Tampa and St. Petersburg campuses, the master of accountancy at USF can help accountants meet the requirements for a CPA license in Florida. Degree-seekers can also choose from specializations in assurance, corporate accounting, and tax accounting.
Accounting graduate students complete 15 credits of core courses, nine credits in their specialization, and six credits of accounting electives. Courses typically enroll no more than 35 students and use an interactive, discussion-based format.
The curriculum covers financial data, data visualization, data ethics, and digital accounting tools. At the conclusion of the program, graduate students present an accounting case that integrates program concepts.
Highlights
- Primarily evening courses designed for working students
- Part-time and full-time enrollment options
- Low in-state tuition rate of $348 per credit
Considerations
- Applicants need an accredited bachelor's in accounting
- Minimum 500 GMAT score or minimum 305 GRE score
Percent Online Enrollment
67%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Master’s in Accounting Programs 2025
New York University
- New York, NY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
With a master's in accounting from NYU, students can become CPA-ready in as little as one year. Offered through the Stern School of Business, the full-time program includes courses in auditing, data management, and financial statement analysis. Graduate students also explore corporate finance, professional responsibility, and taxation.
Incoming students begin the program with an orientation to connect with classmates and faculty. The program's cohort model also encourages class events and community-building opportunities through its cohort leadership program.
NYU boasts strong industry connections, with 58% of 2024 accounting grads accepting jobs at Big Four accounting firms. Further, 100% of the class of 2024 received a job offer within three months of finishing their degree.
Highlights
- Cohort model encourages connections with faculty and classmates
- Broad GRE/GMAT waiver options
- $20,000 Advancing Women in Business Scholarship
Considerations
- Total tuition cost of $64,430 for 2024-2025
- Full-time program with most courses during business hours
- Average 3.55 GPA for admitted students
Percent Online Enrollment
31%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#6 Best Master’s in Accounting Programs 2025
Northeastern University
- Boston, MA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
The master's in accounting at Northeastern stands out for its accelerated format. Graduate students can complete the 30-credit master's program in seven months.
Through its emphasis on Big Data tools and analytics, the accounting program strengthens innovative problem-solving skills. Learners develop essential accounting skills while developing strategic decision-making abilities.
Designed for accounting majors, the program offers concentrations in audit or taxation and accounting electives to further specialize the degree. Case studies based on real-world data and capstone projects give students opportunities to apply their learning and gain practical experience.
The program prepares graduates for the CPA exam and licensure. Accounting students interested in an MBA can apply their graduate credits toward Northeastern's MBA program.
Highlights
- Accelerated, seven-month program
- AACSB accredited
Considerations
- Only admits new students in the fall
- Estimated total tuition of $54,500
- Only offers full-time enrollment
Percent Online Enrollment
25%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#7 Best Master’s in Accounting Programs 2025
Tulane University
- New Orleans, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
Offered through the Freeman School of Business, the master's in accounting at Tulane lets graduate students customize their degree program. Learners can create interdisciplinary specializations, with options such as analytics, risk management, structured finance, and taxation. During the 30-credit program, graduate students also choose 12 credits of electives in addition to 18 credits of core courses.
At Tulane, accounting graduate students work closely with their faculty advisors to create an individualized course of study to prepare for the CPA exam or pursue careers in finance and accounting. The program also incorporates experiential learning opportunities to solve real-world business problems. Graduate students can complete the program in 2-3 semesters.
Highlights
- Open to accounting majors and non-majors
- All applicants considered for fellowships
- Multiple specialization options
Considerations
- Total tuition and fees of around $58,000
- Requires GMAT or GRE scores, with waivers available
Percent Online Enrollment
31%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Best Master’s in Accounting Programs 2025
San Diego State University
- San Diego, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
SDSU's master's in accountancy prepares graduates for the CPA exam or other accounting career paths. Offered through the Fowler College of Business, the accounting program provides academic and career support.
Graduate students work with faculty and academic advisors to design their course of study. Within the program, graduate students can specialize in three areas: accounting information systems, financial reporting, or taxation.
The program provides many options for customization, allowing students to choose electives within their specialization. In the financial reporting track, for example, options include fraud examination, business analytics, enterprise database management, and accounting for nonprofit organizations.
As a culminating experience, accounting students either complete a thesis or take a final exam focused on analytics in accounting.
Highlights
- Admits accounting and non-accounting majors
- Thesis or master's exam options
- 12-18 month program
Considerations
- Average 3.27 GPA for 2023 entering class
- Business and accounting prerequisites
- Out-of-state students pay an additional $420 per credit
Percent Online Enrollment
56%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#9 Best Master’s in Accounting Programs 2025
Texas A&M International University
- Laredo, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
The master of professional accountancy at TAMIU covers managerial accounting, taxation, and auditing. During the 30-credit program, graduate students also choose two graduate courses in accounting and two graduate courses in business to customize their degree.
Applicants submit GRE or GMAT scores, a resume with three references, two letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. TAMIU waives the standardized test score requirement for applicants with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Non-accounting majors complete foundational courses before beginning their accountancy master's courses.
Highlights
- Tracks for accounting majors and non-majors
- 12 credits of electives
- Recommended courses for CPA exam prep
Considerations
- Texas residents pay $77 per credit; $487 per credit for out-of-state tuition
- Non-accounting majors need to take additional courses
Percent Online Enrollment
61%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Best Master’s in Accounting Programs 2025
University of Virginia
- Charlottesville, VA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
The master's in accounting at UVA offers an accelerated path to a graduate degree in accounting. Degree-seekers can complete the 30-credit, STEM-designated program in nine months.
Graduate students choose a focus area to develop their technical expertise. The program's tracks include financial reporting and assurance or tax consulting. Courses integrate analytical approaches to develop critical thinking and business decision-making skills. Through case studies and classroom discussions, graduate students gain experience with complex business situations. Faculty who specialize in management communication also encourage leadership development.
Highlights
- Nine-month program
- STEM-designated degree
- 85% of graduates signed with Big Four firms
Considerations
- Four prerequisite courses
- Offered full-time with August start date
Percent Online Enrollment
10%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Accounting.com ranks the best accounting degrees using reputable sources such as the U.S. Department of Education. We build our rankings with four main metrics in mind: academics, cost, reputation, and program availability. We also consider subfactors like retention rate, federal aid amounts, and return on investment to help you find the right program for you.
This ranking is from 2025. Learn more about our process by visiting our school rankings methodology page.
What to Expect From an Accounting Master's Degree
Master's in accounting programs build on undergraduate coursework and explore advanced concepts, techniques, and strategies in accounting, auditing, and financial reporting. Many also offer specific training for specialized career paths or provide rigorous preparation for the CPA exam.
Curricula usually cover about 30-36 credits, though some go up to 45 credits or more. Completion timelines depend on credit requirements, but master's accounting degrees usually require a time commitment in the range of 18-24 months. Schools may offer shorter timelines, especially if you have a relevant undergraduate educational background.
You can also reduce time requirements by transferring previous coursework toward your degree. If you've completed eligible courses at another accredited school, it may be worth it to investigate this option: It could save you time and money.
Degree, Concentration, and Format Options
The best master's in accounting programs usually lead to an MS or master of accountancy (MAcc) degree. MS programs focus more on technical accounting principles, while MAcc programs prepare you for specialized careers by building on existing knowledge foundations.
Schools sometimes award MA degrees in accounting, but MA programs are relatively rare.
Accelerated bachelor's-to-master's accounting programs are another option that may appeal to aspiring CPAs. Typically covering five academic years, these programs usually satisfy the 150-credit requirement for CPA licensure while leading to both bachelor's and master's degrees.
You can also pursue a master of business administration (MBA) with an accounting concentration. Such MBA programs combine general business management training with advanced accounting coursework, preparing you for accounting-focused managerial roles.
Some master's programs in accounting offer their own unique concentrations, which provide targeted preparation for career specializations. Examples include concentrations in:
- Auditing or financial compliance
- Data and analytics
- Managerial or professional accounting
You can also specialize in taxation, but a master of taxation program may be a better option than an accounting degree.
Finally, familiarize yourself with common program formats: These include online, face-to-face, and hybrid options that blend distance and campus-based learning. Online courses may use live, real-time (synchronous) or pre-recorded (asynchronous) delivery methods. Synchronous classes offer more interactivity, while asynchronous classes maximize scheduling flexibility.
Admissions Process
Admissions requirements vary and can depend on the degree type. For instance, MS programs may recommend but not strictly require that applicants hold a bachelor's degree in accounting. However, some MAcc programs only accept students with an accounting degree.
Regardless of undergraduate degree requirements, you'll likely need coursework in accounting, business, finance, or related subjects. However, some schools have alternative pathways for students from non-accounting, non-business backgrounds. These generally offer conditional admission pending the successful completion of a preparatory course sequence.
If you have it, professional accounting experience may enhance your acceptance chances. Many schools are moving away from testing but if test requirements apply, they'll most likely include the GMAT and/or GRE.
For specific details about admissions standards and processes, always refer directly to the school offering the program.
Popular Accounting Graduate Courses
Master's accounting programs usually include core courses required of all students and electives you select from a list of options. Some curricula also have a culminating experience, such as a capstone project or exit examination.
The best master's in accounting programs cover accounting concepts and advanced professional applications. Examples of courses you may find in your curriculum include:
- Accounting Information Systems: Required in some curricula and elective in others, this course explores the computerized accounting systems enterprises use to track, store, and analyze financial data. Businesses increasingly rely on these technologies, and related expertise may improve your career potential.
- Financial Reporting: Master's accounting programs usually include one or more required courses in financial reporting. These courses provide detailed coverage of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and other standard reporting and documentation practices. Globally focused programs may also cover similar systems used elsewhere in the world, such as International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).
- Advanced Auditing: This course covers advanced techniques for examining financial records to ensure GAAP or IFRS compliance. You may analyze attestation reports, comparing them against Statements on Standards for Attestation Engagements compliance requirements. Auditing concentrations typically require this course, while generalist programs may offer it as an elective.
- Accounting Capstone: In this culminating experience, you will complete an intensive project designed to test the synthesized accounting knowledge you gained through your program coursework. When required, capstones typically engage concepts in auditing, cost accounting, managerial accounting, taxation, and professional ethics.
How Much Do Accounting Master's Programs Cost?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), graduate students paid an average of $20,513 in tuition and fees in 2021-22. The NCES also tracked the following average costs among various institution types with students in public schools paying the least and those in private nonprofit schools paying the most:
- Public: $12,596
- Private for-profit: $14,161
- Private nonprofit: $29,931
Many factors may influence your costs. For example, you will likely face higher tuition fees if you attend a public institution as an out-of-state student. Conversely, you could qualify for in-state rates regardless of residency if you pursue a fully online program.
Also, these figures do not account for costs related to relocation, housing, transportation, books, or course materials.
If you need financial aid, submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see if you qualify. Research scholarships, fellowships, grants, and work-study programs. Try to minimize your borrowing, especially at higher interest rates.
Selecting the Best Master's in Accounting Program
When choosing a master’s in accounting program, it is critical to do your research. Ranked lists of the best schools can help you get started, but you must also determine if the program meets academic standards and is the right fit for you. Consider these important factors when comparing your options:
-
Reputation and Student Outcomes
How well do employers regard the school you are considering? For clues, look at student outcome data related to post-graduation employment rates. Request this information from the school if it is not readily available online.
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Alignment with Career Goals
Assess how each program can advance your career goals. For example, if you want to become a CPA, look for an accounting program specifically designed for aspiring certified public accountants.
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Specialized Accreditation
Some graduate accounting programs hold programmatic accreditations from specialized agencies like the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. These endorsements signify that the program's academic content meets elevated professional standards, signaling high quality.
Analyze these factors alongside other considerations, like tuition costs and concentration options.
Common Questions About Accounting Master's Degrees
You can become a CPA or certified management accountant, work as a staff accountant, or pursue a related career in auditing or forensic accounting, financial compliance, financial management, or tax consulting. Master's degrees in accounting translate well to many career paths in business and finance.
NCES data from the 2021-22 school year indicated that graduate students paid an average of $20,513 in required tuition and required fees. Private institutions had higher annual average costs ($28,017) than public institutions ($12,596). Many online programs offer lower tuition rates, enhancing their appeal to cost-conscious students.
Yes, many accredited schools offer online accounting master's programs. You can choose from both synchronous and asynchronous course delivery formats, and you can also blend campus-based and online learning by enrolling in a hybrid program.
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