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Accounting, M.S.

Play video: Master of Science in Accounting at Westfield State | Carly Roy '17

Elevate Your Expertise with a Master's in Accounting.

A master’s in accounting helps you build on the knowledge and skills you developed in your undergraduate accounting studies to achieve a greater degree of sophistication in accounting and auditing. You’ll expand your critical-thinking and research skills, as well as develop your leadership skills. Whether you’re interested in public or private accounting, a master’s degree in accounting will strengthen your theoretical foundation in multiple areas of accounting. 

The master’s in accounting curriculum is divided into two components: the Foundation Curriculum and the Advanced Curriculum. In addition, you must complete a comprehensive examination near the end of your program of study. The Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) program and the Bachelor of Science in Accounting program will combine to meet the 150-hour educational requirement for professional certification as a public accountant in Massachusetts and several other states.

Program Highlights

  • Courses are offered in a combination of on-campus, online, hybrid, and remote synchronous formats
  • Advanced Curriculum can be completed in just two semesters!
  • Fulfills the 150-hour educational requirement for the professional certification as a public accountant in Massachusetts and several other states.

Prepare for a management position in accounting.

Build on your knowledge and develop leadership skills that set you apart. 

Master the skills you need to excel in accounting.

  • A person working on their laptop in an office.

    Flexible program 

    Our master’s in accounting coursework is offered in a combination of on-campus, online, hybrid, and remote synchronous formats to more easily align with your busy schedule. Please note that all courses are not offered in all modalities.

  • A close-up shot of the campus globe, backlit by a cloudy, blue sky.

    Small class sizes 

    You’ll benefit from small class sizes where your professors can get to know you better. You’ll receive hands-on learning instruction and one-on-one interactions that help you expand your critical-thinking skills in accounting and business.

  • Students at Graduate Commencement wearing caps

    Prepare for professional designation exams 

    The coursework in the master's in accounting program will help your prepare to take the examination required for both the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) designations. 

Program Details

Program Mission

The mission of the Master of Science in Accounting program is to prepare accounting students for successful careers in accounting. The program will build on the knowledge and tools from the students’ undergraduate education, allowing them to achieve a greater degree of sophistication in accounting. This will provide students with knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in today’s public and private accounting environments.

Program Vision

To be the graduate accounting program of choice for students seeking a small program experience in Western Massachusetts, and a primary source for employers in the area when hiring for accounting positions.

Learning Outcomes

The Master of Science in Accounting program is designed to:   

  • Strengthen students’ theoretical foundation in multiple areas of accounting   
  • Expand students’ critical thinking skills in accounting and business   
  • Further develop students’ oral and written communication skills   
  • Further develop students’ leadership and teamwork skills

What can I do with a master’s in accounting?

With an MSA, you’ll be prepared for management positions in accounting such as: 

  • Corporate controller
  • Chief accounting officer (CAO)
  • Chief financial officer (CFO) 
  • Senior accountant
  • Internal auditor
  • External auditor
  • Forensic accountant
  • Tax accountant 
  • Tax manager 
  • Financial analyst 
A person analyzing financial documents and using a calculator.

Course Requirements

Program Description

Westfield State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a Master of Science in Accounting. The Master of Science allows the student to complete the additional 30-credit hours required to fulfill the educational requirements for the Certified Public Accountancy license in Massachusetts. The two programs may be combined for a five-year, 150-hour program.

Program Objectives

The objective of the Master of Science in Accounting program is to prepare accounting students for management positions in accounting. The program will build on the knowledge and tools from the students' undergraduate education, allowing them to achieve a greater degree of sophistication in accounting and auditing. This will provide them with the knowledge and skills necessary to have successful careers in public and private accounting. The program will:

  • strengthen students' theoretical foundation in multiple areas of accounting,
  • expand students' critical thinking and research skills in accounting, auditing, and business,
  • develop students' oral and written communication skills,
  • aid the student in developing interpersonal skills such as leadership and teamwork,
  • enhance students' understanding of ethical and professional issues in accounting and auditing, and their ability to respond to ethical dilemmas in the profession, and
  • fulfill the 150-hour educational requirement for professional certification as a public accountant in Massachusetts and several other states.

Students will also be better prepared for the examination required for the Certified Management Accountant and for the Certified Public Accountant designations.

Admission Requirements

Minimum entrance requirements for the M.S. in Accounting program include:

  •  Official transcripts indicating a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
  •  Students applying to the Advanced Curriculum: A bachelor's degree with either a major or concentration in accounting from an accredited institution*.

       *Based on U.S. regulations

  •  Students applying to the Foundation Curriculum: A bachelor's degree with either a major or concentration in a business related discipline from an accredited institution. Other degrees may be acceptable; however students would likely need to take additional courses to meet the requirements for the Certified Public Accounting Examination and subsequent licensing. Prerequisite courses for applicants that do not hold a bachelor's degree in a business related discipline:
    • ACCT 0104 Principles of Accounting I (or equivalent); Prerequisite: MGMT 0107 Software Applications in Management
    • ACCT 0105 Principles of Accounting II (or equivalent)
    • FINC 0207 Financial Management (or equivalent)
    • MGMT 0241 Business Law* *Course may be waived with acceptable alternate law course.
  •  An undergraduate cumulative grade point average of 3.0.
  • Three letters of recommendation, including a minimum of one academic reference.
  • A written statement of purpose and intent to complete the Master of Science in Accounting.

 

Specific Degree Requirements

 

Program Summary

The Master of Science in Accounting curriculum is divided into two components: the Foundation Curriculum and the Advanced Curriculum. All students must complete a comprehensive examination near the end of their program of study.

Foundation Curriculum (up to 21 credits)

The Foundation Curriculum is applicable for students who have not fulfilled all necessary prerequisite courses. Students complete the Foundation Curriculum prior to beginning the Advanced Curriculum. Foundation Curriculum courses may be waived based on prior coursework. Students who have already completed all prerequisite accounting courses can apply for advanced standing and begin the Advanced Curriculum upon acceptance into the Master of Science in Accounting Program. Students are required to have a minimum 3.0 GPA in the Foundation Curriculum in order to proceed with the Advanced Curriculum. The Academic Standing Policy which states that students earning three grades of B- or lower are immediately dismissed from the program does not apply to students in the Foundation Curriculum. This policy becomes applicable once students enter the Advanced Curriculum. Students may invoke the Course Repeat Policy once in the Foundation Curriculum and once in the Advanced Curriculum. Students who participate in the Foundation Curriculum are given an increase to seven (7) years to complete the M.S. Accounting degree requirements.

Advanced Curriculum - 30 credits

Requirements include completion of the Core Curriculum (15 credits) and elective courses (15 credits). Students may choose an internship experience as one elective. The curriculum is designed to substantially advance students in their knowledge and skill level beyond the Foundation Curriculum/existing baccalaureate program. Class/team participation is included in several courses and the curriculum demands group work and fosters leadership skills. Particularly, one elective area (Social Sciences) has been designed to provide awareness and professional development in interpersonal skills, management skills, and understanding organizational culture. This aspect of training is highly coveted by employers.

Comprehensive Examination

The candidate for the Master of Science in Accounting will have to successfully complete a comprehensive examination in his/her last semester. The comprehensive examination in the Master of Science in Accounting Program is designed to help prepare students for the Certified Public Accountancy ("CPA") Examination. Given the nature of the comprehensive examination, students who have already successfully passed the CPA Examination will not be required to take the comprehensive examination.

Get big school features with small school advantages.  

We offer high-quality academics, unique learning opportunities, and a gorgeous campus—and we have small classes, accessible faculty, and one-on-one support. 

You'll join fellow motivated graduate students ready to make the most of the college experience through active participation. Become part of a caring and committed community that understands and embraces the bridge between academic study and civic responsibility.

  • Advanced

    and Foundation Curriculums

  • Opportunities

    to pursue an internship

  • Preferred

    application deadlines of March 1 & November 1

Well-qualified and dedicated faculty help you learn and grow

Welcome to an academic journey where our distinguished faculty not only bring a wealth of professional experience but also hold advanced graduate degrees. At Westfield State University, we understand that personalized attention and direct accessibility are crucial to your success.

Immerse yourself in an educational environment where knowledge isn't just imparted; it's tailored to your individual needs. Our faculty are committed to providing you with more than just a degree – they are here to offer the support that truly makes a difference in your education.

Accounting professor smiling wearing red shirt and glasses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you explain the difference between the Foundation and Advanced Curriculums?

Foundation Curriculum (up to 21 credits)

The Foundation Curriculum offers students who have an undergraduate business degree, but lack the necessary coursework in accounting, to complete a series of

prerequisite courses as part of the master’s program. The Foundation Curriculum prepares students for the Advanced Curriculum.

Students applying for the Foundation and Advanced Curriculum: Must have a bachelor’s degree with either a major or concentration in a business related discipline from an accredited institution.



Advanced Curriculum (30 Credits)

The Advanced Curriculum is comprised of ten courses. The majority of courses are offered in either a remote synchronous or hybrid format, and certain courses are offered 100% online. The Advanced Curriculum can be completed in just two semesters.

Students applying for the Advanced Curriculum: Must have a bachelor’s degree with either a major or concentration in accounting from an accredited institution.*



*Based on U.S. regulations

Can I apply to the MSA program without a bachelor's degree or concentration in accounting?

Yes, other degrees may be acceptable; however students would likely need to take additional courses to meet the requirements for the Certified Public Accounting Examination and subsequent licensing.

Prerequisite courses for applicants that do not hold a bachelor’s degree in a business related discipline:

ACCT 0104  Principles of Accounting I (Prerequisite:  MGMT 0107 Software Applications in Management)

ACCT 0105  Principles of Accounting II

FINC 0207  Financial Management

MGMT 0241 Business Law *Course may be waived with acceptable alternate law course

What are the application requirements?

Prospective students should access the graduate application online at connect.westfield.ma.edu/apply/



The following material must be received for an application to be reviewed:

  1. Completed graduate application and $50 application fee
  2. Official transcripts from all accredited colleges and universities previously attended.
  3. Three letters of recommendation; at least one academic recommendation is required.
  4. A written statement of purpose and intent to complete the Master of Science in Accounting.

Preferred deadlines:

• March 1 for fall admission

• November 1 for spring admission

Is a GRE or GMAT Required?

No, a GRE or GMAT is not required.

How much does Westfield State University cost?

Westfield State University offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost—with many options for financial aid. Visit our Cost and Aid page to learn more. 

Are scholarships available?
  • The AICPA offers a variety of scholarships to students pursuing degrees in accounting
  • The Massachusetts Society of CPAs offer a number of scholarships to graduate accounting students

Westfield State University also offers a limited number of graduate assistantships to graduate students each year. The assistantships are highly competitive and are awarded to students with superior academic records who are matriculated in a graduate degree program. 

Learn more about graduate assistantships

Do you offer graduate assistantships?

Yes, a limited number of graduate assistantships are available each year for graduate students. These opportunities are competitive and are awarded to students with excellent academic records who are enrolled in a graduate degree program.

This valuable opportunity can enhance your academic journey and provide valuable experience. Don't miss out on the chance to be part of this enriching program!

Learn more about graduate assistantships 

Is graduate housing available?

Discover graduate living at Welch Hall Apartments – your gateway to a vibrant community and tailored amenities. Choose from four-person apartments featuring single and premium single rooms, all inclusive of utilities and internet. Make connections by signing up as a group or embark on an individual adventure with like-minded roommates. Revel in the comfort of fully furnished apartments, boasting a well-equipped kitchen with a breakfast bar, cozy bathrooms, and inviting shared living spaces.

Your convenience is our priority – enjoy free laundry facilities on campus and parking at an affordable rate. Immerse yourself in academic pursuits with easy access to the campus library or prioritize your well-being at our fitness centers.

Whether you prefer cooking with your roommates or opting for a meal plan, relish access to an array of campus dining options, including late-night and takeaway choices. Elevate your graduate experience with Welch Hall Apartments – where living meets exceptional comfort and convenience.

For more information contact housing@westfield.ma.edu or 413-572-5402.

Will I receive academic support?

Yes, students have a dedicated advisor – your compass through class choices and beyond. Beyond academics, your advisor becomes a mentor, guiding you on further education and career paths. We're not just about classes; we connect you to resources like the Banacos Center and the Reading & Writing Center. At every step, we're here to ensure your success is our priority.

Can I take a course without enrolling into the program?

Yes, students can take up to two courses (six credits) non-matriculated with permission from the program director prior to matriculating into the program. Financial aid is not available for non-matriculated courses and cost can be found on our tuition and fees page. If you are interested in taking non-matriculated courses please contact the Registrar at registrar@westfield.ma.edu or 413-579-3200 for assistance.

For students interested in taking more than six credits non-matriculated and will not be applying the credits to a degree additional credits may be taken by completing the professional development waiver.

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Accounting, M.S.