Master of Science in Accountancy

The Master of Science in Accountancy (MSA) provides the breadth of knowledge for the professional accountant. Students master the theory and principles that frame a wide range of problems and issues encountered in the accounting profession.

This program is designed for accountants and non-accountants who are preparing for a professional certification in accounting such as the uniform Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam. This degree will allow students to seek positions in such career areas as accounting, auditing, and budgeting.

The MSA consists of 36 credit hours. Thirty credit hours constitute the core curriculum which covers the following areas of accounting: accounting theory and research, accounting information systems, managerial accounting and legal aspects of business, internal control systems, financial reporting, auditing, taxation, not-for-profit and government accounting, forensic accounting, and accounting ethics. The core courses were designed based upon the standards proposed by the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA). Additionally, six credit hours make up the financial accounting and communication proficiency courses. The proficiency courses are required for students who have not completed previous coursework in financial accounting or communications.

This program addresses the goals of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) Vision Project for the professional values, communications and leadership skills, strategic and critical thinking skills, and technology skills (The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, 2007). In addition, the program meets the University of Phoenix learning goal of collaboration. A key feature of this program is the utilization of the CPA Test Prep software, which is integrated throughout the core program.

Note: Each state sets forth standards required to be eligible to take the CPA exam and apply for licensure or certification as a CPA. While this program was designed with consideration for the standards proposed by the National Association of State Boards of Accounting (NASBA), the University of Phoenix cannot, and will not, provide any assurance that completion of this program will allow a successful student to qualify within the student's specific jurisdiction. Potential applicants should check with the appropriate organization within their jurisdiction to determine if this program, combined with their undergraduate degree and any other specific criteria, meets the requirements to qualify for examination in that specific jurisdiction. States frequently change their requirements for examination. There is no assurance that at the time of degree completion the specific jurisdiction's requirements will be consistent with the requirements at the time of admission.