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Considering an MBA in accounting? Discover what these programs cover, how they differ from other graduate degrees, and the careers they prepare you for.
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MBA in accounting programs apply financial analysis and recordkeeping to inform and improve business leadership. Compared to general accounting master's programs, which focus on specialized accounting topics and skills, MBAs in accounting take a broader and more interdisciplinary approach.
Compared to a general MBA, the accounting specialization provides more skill diversification, which many MBA educators and students desire. According to the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, MBA programs with specializations experienced nearly 50% more enrollment growth in 2021 than standard MBA programs.
As more schools develop specialized MBA programs to meet the demand, picking the right program becomes more challenging. In this guide, discover unique traits of the top-ranked MBA in accounting programs, where they can lead, and how to choose the best program for your needs.
Popular Online Programs
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Top Accounting MBAs
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#1 Best MBA in Accounting Programs 2025
The University of Texas at Dallas
Richardson, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
UT Dallas' MBA with a concentration in accounting provides in-person full-time and online part-time options. The online program offers classes synchronously and asynchronously. Online students must complete exams in testing centers. The part-time program offers three start dates throughout the year.
The 53-credit curriculum includes 32 core and 21 elective credits. Part-time students can complete the program at their own pace but must finish within six years.
Applicants may need to submit GMAT or GRE scores if their undergraduate GPA is 3.3 or less. Successful MBA enrollees had an average undergraduate GPA of 3.6 and a median age of 28.
Highlights
Online career support
Dual MS and MBA program available
Considerations
Only part-time program for online attendees
Attendees may need to complete a no-credit prerequisite course
The guaranteed tuition rate plan has a higher starting cost than the variable tuition rate
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$16,412
Out-of-state
$45,100
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,088
Out-of-state
$29,252
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
30,885
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
36%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best MBA in Accounting Programs 2025
Touro University
New York, NY
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
Touro's MBA program offers seven specializations, including forensic accounting. The 42-credit curriculum consists of 30 general and 12 specialization credits. Forensic accounting students can choose from 12 electives, including international accounting, leadership, or advanced auditing.
Students must complete a capstone course, including a project that demonstrates business knowledge. Students may also complete a business-related internship for 3-6 credits. Part-time attendees typically complete the program in 2-3 years.
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Individuals with a GPA below 3.0 may require an interview or prerequisite course. Forensic accounting MBA applicants must also have completed seven prerequisite courses with a grade of B or better.
Highlights
Sign up for a free audit course before enrolling
Students and alums can have one-on-one sessions with career counselors
Considerations
MBA courses cost $950 per credit
Limited MBA scholarship opportunities
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$18,560
Out-of-state
$18,560
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,068
Out-of-state
$13,068
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
11,111
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
58%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#3 Best MBA in Accounting Programs 2025
University of Georgia
Athens, GA
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
UGA's MBA program offers an optional concentration in accounting that provides fully online and asynchronous lectures. Students can complete the part-time program within 17-23 months if they commit 20 hours per week to studying and coursework. The program has accreditation from the AACSB.
The curriculum consists of 16 courses, including 10 core and six elective classes. Students may need to work with classmates to complete live assignments. The program offers optional certifications in leading change, workforce diversity, and Lean Six Sigma Green Belt. Students can participate in an in-person domestic or international residency to gain real-life work experience.
Highlights
Team-based assignments to connect with classmates
Virtual information sessions
Automatic scholarship consideration
Considerations
Requires two years of working experience
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,790
Out-of-state
$28,830
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,878
Out-of-state
$25,186
Retention Rate
95%
Acceptance Rate
37%
Students Enrolled
41,615
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
20%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best MBA in Accounting Programs 2025
University of Denver
Denver, CO
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
DU's full-time MBA program offers multiple concentration options, including accounting. The degree consists of 80 course credits and a no-credit summer internship. Students must have an overall 3.0 or higher GPA to graduate.
Students must complete four real-world projects, including entrepreneurship, social, corporate, and global challenges. These team-based projects require working with a faculty advisor and personal coach to help a corporate, local, or global partner. The entrepreneurship project consists of creating a theoretical startup while the other projects may vary.
Prospective students must have at least two years of work experience in any field. Applicants do not need to submit GMAT or GRE scores.
Highlights
Tuition includes a trip abroad
Over 80% of admitted students receive merit-based financial aid
Automatic scholarship consideration
Considerations
One start date per year
Two-year tuition cost of $98,880
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$55,260
Out-of-state
$55,260
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$55,260
Out-of-state
$55,260
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
13,384
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
36%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Best MBA in Accounting Programs 2025
Clark University
Worcester, MA
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
Clark's MBA provides multiple concentration options, including accounting and expanded accounting. The expanded accounting concentration provides courses that help students prepare for the Uniform Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Examination. The MBA program has received accreditation from the AACSB.
The MBA degree offers multiple options, including in-person, accelerated, full-time, and part-time programs. The online MBA program does not offer an accounting concentration. Students must complete 12 courses, including three electives and nine core courses. Additionally, students must complete a summer internship.
Individuals can apply by submitting an online form, application fee, and required documentation. The school requires GMAT or GRE scores, but offers waivers for qualified students. Waiver requirements include an undergraduate degree with a 3.2 or above GPA, CPA licensure, or five years of managerial work experience.
Highlights
Individuals with three or more years of managerial experience may receive a course waiver
Opportunity to work on research projects
Considerations
Must complete an economics prerequisite course through an accredited university
Cost of $1,658 per credit
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,000
Out-of-state
$52,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$47,650
Out-of-state
$47,650
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
42%
Students Enrolled
4,148
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
16%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#6 Best MBA in Accounting Programs 2025
Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus
Madison, NJ
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
FDU's MBA offers a specialization in accounting. Attendees interested in taking the CPA exam can schedule a meeting with the department chair to discuss exam requirements and recommended courses.
The MBA program offers in-person and hybrid choices. The hybrid option offers online asynchronous courses and a weekly Saturday in-person class. Students can typically complete the AACSB-accredited program within 2-3 years.
The curriculum consists of 15 courses, including three accounting specialization classes and a capstone course. Students can waive up to four courses if they meet the minimum grade requirement, complete the course within the last five years, and provide a course syllabus copy.
Highlights
In-person and hybrid programs have the same tuition rate
Classes have a 25-student limit
Considerations
Lack of elective options; the program pre-selects all courses
The MBA accounting concentration does not qualify for the bachelor's-to-master's path
Minimum 3.0 GPA from an AACSB-accredited school or 3.2 GPA from a non-AACSB accredited school for admission
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$38,811
Out-of-state
$38,811
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$21,279
Out-of-state
$21,279
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
2,823
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
23%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#7 Best MBA in Accounting Programs 2025
Chapman University
Orange, CA
4 years
Campus
What You Should Know
Chapman's full-time MBA program offers eight concentrations, including accounting. The MBA curriculum has 50 credit units, including 35 core and 15 elective credits. Students can pursue the concentration by taking at least three qualified accounting electives. Attendees must maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher to graduate. Each course must have a grade of C+ or higher to count towards graduation.
Individuals can apply online by submitting an application, required documentation, and a GRE or GMAT score. The MBA class profile consists of attendees with an average 3.4-3.9 GPA, 600-660 GMAT score, and 1-4 years of working experience.
Highlights
Offers merit-based scholarships
Has employer partnerships, on-campus recruiting events, and career development services
Considerations
Required interview for admittance
Tuition cost of $2,015 per credit
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$60,288
Out-of-state
$60,288
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$37,603
Out-of-state
$37,603
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
56%
Students Enrolled
9,961
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
2%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#8 Best MBA in Accounting Programs 2025
University of Bridgeport
Bridgeport, CT
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
UB's MBA program offers a concentration in accounting that focuses on integrating business and accounting skills. The program offers fully online and in-person choices. On-campus courses provide flexible options, including day, evening, and weekend classes.
The program's curriculum has 36 credits, including core, concentration, and capstone courses. Students must complete three capstone courses, including an integration, practicum, and experiential course. The experiential course offers various choices, including a case study, internship, or thesis.
Students with a non-business degree may need to complete two preparatory classes in accounting and management. They can take these preparatory classes through the MBA program.
Highlights
Business degree-holders can waive up to 12 credits
Can complete the degree within a year
Seven years to finish the program
Considerations
The school only offers $3,000 and $4,000 graduate scholarships
In-person MBAs cost 50% more than the online MBA
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$32,860
Out-of-state
$32,860
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$19,096
Out-of-state
$19,096
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
3,988
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
67%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#9 Best MBA in Accounting Programs 2025
Iowa State University
Ames, IA
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
Iowa State's MBA offers 11 specialization options, including accounting and accounting analytics. Attendees can pursue up to two specializations concurrently. The accounting specialization focuses on traditional accounting skills, while the accounting analytics specialization focuses on data and receives a STEM designation.
The program's curriculum has 48 credits, including 30 required and 18 elective credits. Attendees can select nine relevant elective credits to complete a specialization. Up to one course can be used in two different specializations.
Students can pursue a bachelor's-to-MBA or dual-degree option. The bachelor's-to-MBA option can be completed within five years. Applicants for the bachelor's-to-MBA program typically have a minimum 3.0 GPA and 600 GMAT score.
The dual-degree program allows attendees to combine an MBA with another master's degree. Some courses can count toward both degrees, lowering the overall cost and time commitment. Students can choose among 10 applicable dual-degree programs, including a master of accountancy or master of business analytics.
Highlights
MBA students can add a 12-15 credit graduate certificate
Scholarships and assistantships do not require additional forms
Mandatory two-day business case competition
Considerations
Only 30-35 competitive assistantships offered per year
In-state students pay $818 per credit while out-of-state students pay $1,825 per credit
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,982
Out-of-state
$26,168
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,572
Out-of-state
$26,776
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
30,177
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
55%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Best MBA in Accounting Programs 2025
Chicago State University
Chicago, IL
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
CSU's MBA with a concentration in accounting caters to working professionals by offering courses on Friday evening and Saturday. The curriculum includes 36 credits and can be completed within four semesters.
Students must take core courses, concentration electives, and one capstone class. The capstone course offers three focuses, including management for nonprofit organizations, entrepreneurial management, and strategic management.
Prospective students need an undergraduate degree with a minimum 2.75 GPA. Applicants should also have completed prerequisite courses in accounting, statistics, economics, and finance. Individuals can meet the prerequisite requirements through undergraduate courses, standalone accredited classes, or relevant work experience.
Highlights
Offers a for-cost, on-campus daycare for children aged 3-5. Parents may qualify for childcare assistance
Provides full-time and part-time internship opportunities
Considerations
Mandatory interview during the application process
Charges mandatory fees based on credit hours
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,656
Out-of-state
$7,656
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,976
Out-of-state
$11,679
Retention Rate
55%
Acceptance Rate
49%
Students Enrolled
2,317
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
60%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Our Ranking Methodology
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.
Specialized Leadership Skills: An accounting specialization helps add accounting and financial expertise to your business leadership toolbelt. Your unique skill set and perspective can help make you a more effective manager and increase your earnings.
Professional Credentials: Professional credentials like the certified public accountant (CPA) can improve your employment and earning potential. An MBA in accounting can help you meet the post-bachelor's education requirements for CPA licensure.
Broader Employment Opportunities: An MBA in accounting expands your professional reach, opening doors in business management and accounting. You can apply your expertise in many organizations and industries in entrepreneurial, national, and global settings. An MBA can even prepare you to pursue accounting leadership positions without an extensive accounting background.
What to Expect From an Accounting MBA
An MBA in accounting typically features the same business management fundamentals as standard MBA programs but replaces some general management courses with specialized accounting classes. You'll also explore the practical applications of these accounting skills and techniques in a business management context.
The timelines and credit loads of an MBA in accounting can vary considerably but usually function similarly to MBAs without specializations. MBA programs typically feature 30-60 credits and take 1-2 years to complete. Some accounting specializations may add to your course load, but the additional classes usually replace electives.
You can shorten your program length with advanced standing, though MBA programs tend to offer fewer transfer credits than other master's programs because they are more practice-oriented and collaborative.
MBA in Accounting vs. Master's in Accounting
With multiple graduate programs available in accounting, choosing the right degree can seem challenging. To make the best decision, you need to consider your professional goals, educational background, and study interests.
The following table compares an MBA in accounting with a general master's in accounting.
Comparing an MBA and Master's in Accounting
Key Factor
MBA in Accounting
Master's in Accounting
Program Length
10-24 months
10-24 months
Program Focus
Develop practical leadership skills in an experiential setting
Develop advanced accounting skills and techniques
Credit and Course Load
30-60 credits
30-60 credits
Types of Classes
Accounting information systems, corporate accounting, financial decision-making
Accounting ethics, taxation, financial statement analysis, auditing and assurance
Admission Requirements
Bachelor's degree, GRE or GMAT scores, and possibly professional experience
Bachelor's degree, GRE or GMAT scores, and possibly prerequisite accounting courses
Professional Outcomes
Financial manager, business manager, financial analyst, CPA
CPA, accounting manager, financial analyst
Student Demographic
Experienced business professionals with little or no accounting background looking to increase their leadership skills
Accounting bachelor's degree graduates working toward a professional credential and/or a management career in accounting
There's plenty of overlap in an MBA and master's in accounting, and knowing these differences can help you make a decision. For example, you might choose a master's in accounting if you have a degree in accounting and want to advance your career in that field. You might opt for an MBA in accounting to build on your business background.
The admissions process for an MBA in accounting can vary by program and school but typically requires you to submit a resume, recommendation letters, and transcripts demonstrating completion of a bachelor's degree.
Some programs have additional requirements, such as a minimum 3.0 GPA, prerequisite accounting or business courses, relevant business experience, and personal statements or essays. Since many schools have become test-optional, you may choose to submit GMAT and/or GRE scores if you feel they help your admission chances.
Once you collect and upload your application materials, you must pay an application fee, which may be free or as much as $275.
Every MBA curriculum differs, but most programs follow a similar model. These programs typically include general or foundational business courses, accounting specialization classes, electives, and research or capstone project credits.
The following section highlights some common courses.
Strategic Management: In this course, you learn to evaluate and improve an organization's operations, policies, strategies, and performances. You'll explore ways to identify and analyze organizational issues, measure effectiveness, and implement changes.
Managerial Accounting: This class examines how professionals use accounting information to influence management decisions in various business settings. Topics may include budgeting and cost analysis, cost behaviors, and investment analysis.
Financial Planning and Analysis: Enrollees explore the main methods and strategies for business-wide financial planning. Topics may include budgeting and forecasting, creating valuations, and financial statement analysis. Assignments require students to evaluate businesses, investment opportunities, and risks.
Accounting Research Project: Often replacing a dissertation, an MBA research project allows you to conduct extensive research in an area of your choosing. In most cases, you'll investigate a real-world problem in accounting or financial management. While researching, you'll collect and analyze data to write and/or present your findings and conclusions.
How Much Do Accounting MBA Programs Cost?
Many factors influence tuition costs, including the school type and prestige, the program delivery method, and your location. As a result of these factors, tuition prices vary considerably. For example, a full MBA program tuition can cost less than $15,000 or more than $160,000.
On top of tuition, you have other costs to consider, including materials, insurance, and campus and facility fees. You might also have transportation expenses and out-of-state tuition costs.
Regardless of your tuition, you should always explore your financial aid options. For many students, available aid can include federal loans and grants, plus scholarships from schools, governments, and third-party organizations. Start the process by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility.
You can find more details on these options in the links below.
Online learning creates opportunities for people to pursue postsecondary education, particularly those who need flexible schedules to accommodate their busy work or home lives. An online graduate degree in accounting can help them remain employed by offering nontraditional class hours or an asynchronous delivery format.
You should note, however, that online programs can come with their own challenges. For example, online programs may feature less engagement, classroom interaction, and networking, something many MBA programs rely on. Online programs also require more independence and organization.
When choosing between an online and on-campus MBA in accounting, take stock of how you learn and what you want to get from the program. If you need something from both online and on-campus delivery methods, consider a hybrid program.
An MBA in accounting can boost your career options and earnings. According to the Graduate Management Admission Council, the $120,000 estimated median starting salary for MBA graduates in 2024 exceeded a master's of accounting by $45,000.
MBAs prepare you to pursue accounting and business management roles. While every employer differs, most management positions require professional experience. Here's a rundown of some of the most popular career paths after graduation.
Management accountants track and analyze financial data to gain insight into organization-wide performance. They look at expenses, budgets, and supply chains, searching for ways to save money or improve inefficiencies. While management accountants need bachelor's degrees, employers may prefer candidates who have completed graduate-level programs.
These managers oversee accounting departments, manage staff, and prepare accounting reports. They also help other managers understand the organization's internal financial position and make decisions based on their findings. An accounting manager typically needs a bachelor's degree at a minimum, along with experience and advanced credentials.
Top executives develop, implement, and monitor companies' operational strategies. Chief financial officers, for example, manage an organization's financial actions, identifying opportunities, correcting inefficiencies, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. A CFO needs a bachelor's degree at a minimum, but many employers prefer MBA graduates.
Financial managers oversee businesses' financial decisions, including investment strategies. These managers may also analyze and report on their organizations' financial health. Employers typically require them to possess bachelor's degrees, though some may prefer master's-level candidates.
Picking the right program can have a major impact on your educational experience and outcomes. When deciding on an MBA in accounting, consider the following factors:
Accreditation: Ensure your school holds institutional accreditation, which delivers access to federal financial aid. Though not mandatory, programmatic accreditation from a respected organization can provide quality assurance as well.
Program Length and Format: Check that the program length and format meet your learning needs and scheduling requirements. Online programs offer flexibility, but the experience differs from traditional campus programs. Fast-tracked programs can get you a degree quicker, but they also tend to be more intensive.
Curriculum and Specializations: Scan the curriculum to see if it includes the material you're most interested in, along with the credits that will help you satisfy your professional goals.
Location Requirements: Many MBA programs have in-person requirements, even if they occur online. If your school is far away, you may have trouble traveling to campus. Out-of-state programs may charge higher tuition, too.
Common Questions About MBAs in Accounting
Which MBA is best for accounting?
The best MBA program for accounting offers a specialization in the field. Some general MBA programs allow you to choose electives in a focused area, which can have a similar outcome as taking a formal specialization.
What does an MBA in accounting do?
An MBA in accounting prepares you to apply accounting skills and expertise to improve your business management capabilities. These programs can also lead to better career options and help you qualify for CPA licensure.
Is an MBA easier than a CPA?
An MBA is a graduate degree, whereas a CPA is a professional designation from the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. For CPA licensure, you need to complete 150 total credits, which a bachelor's degree and an MBA in accounting can satisfy together.
Is an MBA worth it for accountants?
While an MBA can improve an accountant's employment income and opportunities, it is best suited for aspiring business leaders. For example, if you're an accountant and want to transition into a leadership position or take on more management responsibilities, an MBA can be a powerful resource.
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