Master of Accountancy

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 50

Academic Requirements:

1. Undergraduate Degree: Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution.  

2. Grade Point Average (GPA): International students are required to have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 60% or higher on a scale determined by the applicant's home country's grading system.

English Language Proficiency:

1. IELTS: An overall score of at least 6.0 with no individual band score below 6.0.

2. TOEFL iBT: A minimum overall score of 73 on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) internet-based test.

3. DET (Duolingo English Test): A score of at least 105.

4. PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 49.

Standardized Tests:

1. GRE (Graduate Record Examination): A minimum score of 300 or higher 

2. GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test): A minimum score of 500 or higher on the GMAT is required.

Western Illinois University (WIU) offers several scholarships to international students to assist them in financing their education. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, talents, leadership, and other criteria. 

1. Presidential Scholarships: These scholarships are among the most prestigious at WIU and are awarded to academically exceptional students. They cover a significant portion of tuition costs and are renewable for up to eight semesters.

2. International Commitment Scholarships: WIU offers a range of international commitment scholarships to incoming international undergraduate students. These scholarships are based on academic merit and are available at varying levels of funding.

3. International Transfer Scholarships: Transfer students from international institutions can apply for transfer scholarships to help fund their education at WIU. The scholarship amounts may vary based on academic achievement.

4. Global Excellence Scholarships: These scholarships are designed to recognize and support outstanding international students. They are awarded based on academic performance, leadership, and community involvement.

5. International Peace Scholarship: WIU offers this scholarship to female international students who have a strong commitment to international understanding and peace. It's part of the P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship Fund.

6. Graduate Assistantships: WIU provides graduate assistantship opportunities to international graduate students. These positions offer a stipend, tuition waiver, and valuable work experience within the university.

7. College and Departmental Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within WIU offer scholarships to international students pursuing specific fields of study. Eligibility criteria and award amounts may vary by department.

8. Foundation Scholarships: WIU's Foundation administers a wide range of scholarships, some of which are available to international students. These scholarships are often based on specific majors or criteria defined by donors.

9. External Scholarships: International students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities, both in their home countries and through international organizations, to help finance their education at WIU.

10. Fulbright Scholar Program: While not directly administered by WIU, international students can apply for the prestigious Fulbright Scholar Program, which provides funding for academic and cultural exchange opportunities in the United States.

To apply for scholarships at WIU, international students typically need to submit an application for admission and a separate scholarship application, if required. Deadlines and eligibility criteria can vary.

The Master of Accountancy (MAcc) program at Western Illinois University is designed to prepare students for successful careers in accounting, auditing, taxation, and financial management. Graduates of this program are well-equipped with the knowledge, skills, and professional qualifications needed to excel in the dynamic field of accounting.  

1. Certified Public Accountant (CPA): Many students pursue a Master of Accountancy to meet the educational requirements necessary to sit for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam. Achieving CPA certification is a significant milestone for accountants and opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities.CPAs work in public accounting firms, providing auditing, tax, and consulting services to clients. They can also work in corporate finance departments, government agencies, or as forensic accountants.

2. Public Accounting Firms: Graduates often find rewarding careers in public accounting firms, including the Big Four (Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG), regional, and local firms. They serve clients from various industries, ensuring compliance with financial regulations and offering valuable financial advice.

3. Corporate Accounting: Many organizations, from small businesses to multinational corporations, hire MAcc graduates as staff accountants, controllers, financial analysts, and internal auditors. They play a critical role in managing financial operations, reporting, and compliance within these organizations.

4. Government and Nonprofit Sector: MAcc graduates may pursue careers in government agencies, such as the IRS or state revenue departments, where they are involved in tax enforcement, auditing, and policy development.Nonprofit organizations also require skilled accountants to manage their finances, budgeting, and compliance with nonprofit regulations.

5. Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination: Graduates with a Master of Accountancy can specialize in forensic accounting, where they investigate financial fraud, embezzlement, and other financial crimes. This specialization is in high demand in both the public and private sectors.

6. Financial Planning and Analysis: Some MAcc graduates choose careers as financial analysts or financial planners. They work for corporations, investment firms, or as independent consultants, providing financial guidance and investment strategies.

7. Internal Auditing: Internal auditors play a critical role in assessing an organization's internal controls, risk management processes, and compliance with regulations. MAcc graduates are well-suited for internal auditing positions.

8. Academia and Education: For those interested in academia, a Master of Accountancy can serve as a stepping stone to pursue a Ph.D. and become educators or researchers in the field of accounting.

9. Professional Growth and Advancement: Graduates of the MAcc program often find opportunities for career growth and advancement, including promotions to management and executive positions within their organizations.

10. Job Market Resilience: The accounting profession has shown resilience in various economic conditions, making it a stable and reliable career choice. The demand for skilled accountants and auditors continues to grow, ensuring a healthy job market for MAcc graduates.