Prepare yourself for a successful career in accounting.
The program requires 30 credits of graduate coursework, which includes six required core classes and four elective classes. We developed the curriculum in close consultation with our Accounting Advisory Council and with feedback from our students. The Advisory Council is made up of alumni partners and executives who are strongly committed to our program. The knowledge you gain in the program will be applicable to a number of accounting-related certifications in the field.
Format
We built the program for maximum flexibility. Our online platform allows you to take classes from any place at any time. This means that you can complete your assignments at a time that works for you. Classes are offered fall, spring and summer.
Optional Focus Areas
There is strong demand for accounting professionals who are trained in data analytics. In the data analytics focus, students will develop the skillset and approaches needed to be an analytically-minded accounting professional. Students will learn how to assess and communicate business problems, to evaluate and analyze data and to develop and effectively present data-driven recommendations. (9 credits)
Forensic accounting considerations are frequently intertwined with other fundamental areas of accounting including taxation, financial reporting, transaction advisory, internal audit and information systems. Accountants can bolster their client service capabilities with a fundamental understanding of forensic accounting, including fraud examination, fraud risk management, investigation skills, damages analysis and other forensic services. No matter where your career path takes you, your forensic knowledge will broaden and deepen your accounting skills. (9 credits)
Our focus in taxation provides students with the depth, knowledge and skills needed for a successful career in public accounting. Students will take three tax courses alongside the traditional MS in Accounting curriculum -- Taxation of Partnerships and Limited Liability Company (LLC), Tax Research, and State and Local Taxation. Career benefits include hands on experience with software used by public accounting firms, and a strong foundation in regulation should students go on to work towards an accounting-related certification in the field. (9 credits)
4+1 Master's Degrees
Earn your bachelor's and master's degrees in five years through Isenberg's 4+1 programs. Available to eligible UMass Amherst and Five College students, the pathway includes the Master of Finance (MF), Master of Science in Accounting (MSA), Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA), and Master of Science in Management (MSM).
UMass Amherst students may also qualify for an accelerated option, allowing them to complete both degrees in fewer than five years. Students are encouraged to apply to their chosen master's program during their junior year or early in their senior year to maximize the benefits of the 4+1 pathway.
MS in Accounting Faculty
Apply Now
Follow our step-by-step process to complete your online application.
- Review the program specific admissions requirements.
- Click Apply Now to go to the University's Graduate School site where you can find a link to the secure online application.
- First-time users will need to create an account to start a new application. Note: You can submit your application before you have all your materials ready, simply save and resume your application as you gather required materials.
- After submitting, track your application at the Graduate School Status of Application page.