M.S. in Accounting, Pathway - 1 Semester

Entry requirements for Postgraduate programs

1. Academic Qualifications: Prospective postgraduate students applying to American University are expected to demonstrate strong academic qualifications in their previous studies. While specific requirements may vary depending on the program, applicants typically need to hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution. The academic qualifications requirement generally falls within the range of 83% to 86%, depending on the program and the competitiveness of the applicant pool.

2. English Language Proficiency:  

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall band score of 6.5 is required with no band less than 6.
   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): The minimum TOEFL iBT (internet-based test) score 80 with no band less than 17 is required.
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): The minimum PTE Academic score required is 55 with no band less than 50.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): The minimum DET score of 115 is required with no sub-score below 105.

American University (AU) in Washington D.C., USA, is committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion by providing financial assistance to international students through various scholarship programs. These scholarships are designed to attract top talent from around the world and make an American University education more accessible to students from diverse backgrounds.  

Global Leader Scholarship: The Global Leader Scholarship at American University is a merit-based award offered to international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities. This prestigious scholarship covers full tuition, room, and board for the duration of the student's undergraduate studies at AU.

International Peace Scholarship: The International Peace Scholarship is awarded to international students who have a strong academic record and a demonstrated commitment to promoting peace, justice, and social change. This scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible students enrolled in undergraduate programs at American University.

AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship: The AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship is awarded to outstanding international students who have overcome significant obstacles and challenges to pursue their education and demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to serving their communities. This scholarship covers full tuition, room, and board for the duration of the student's undergraduate studies at AU.

AU International Merit Scholarship: The AU International Merit Scholarship is awarded to international students with exceptional academic achievements and strong leadership qualities. This merit-based scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible undergraduate students enrolled at American University.

AU Dean's Scholarship for International Students: The AU Dean's Scholarship for International Students is awarded to academically talented international students who demonstrate financial need and have a strong commitment to academic excellence. This scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible undergraduate students at AU.

AU Transfer Merit Scholarship for International Students: The AU Transfer Merit Scholarship for International Students is awarded to outstanding transfer students from international institutions who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements and leadership potential. This merit-based scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible undergraduate transfer students at American University.

AU Presidential Scholarship for International Students: The AU Presidential Scholarship for International Students is awarded to top-performing international students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievements, leadership abilities, and a commitment to service. This prestigious scholarship covers full tuition for eligible undergraduate students at AU.

These scholarships for international students at American University reflect the university's commitment to academic excellence, diversity, and global engagement. By providing financial assistance and support to talented and deserving students from around the world, American University seeks to foster a diverse and inclusive campus community and prepare students to become global leaders and change-makers in their respective fields. International students interested in applying for scholarships at American University should review the eligibility criteria and application requirements on the university's official website and contact the Office of Admissions for further assistance.

American University offers a comprehensive M.S. in Accounting program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the field of accounting. The M.S. in Accounting program at American University Washington D.C. offers graduates a wide range of career prospects in accounting, finance, and related fields. With a strong foundation in accounting principles, hands-on experience, and access to a vibrant professional network, graduates are well-equipped to succeed in their chosen career paths and make meaningful contributions to the accounting profession.

1. Certified Public Accountant (CPA): Graduates of the M.S. in Accounting program are well-prepared to pursue careers as Certified Public Accountants (CPAs). Obtaining the CPA license opens up various opportunities in public accounting firms, government agencies, corporations, and nonprofit organizations. CPAs perform auditing, taxation, financial reporting, and consulting services, playing a crucial role in ensuring compliance with regulations and standards.

2. Public Accounting Firms: Many graduates choose to launch their careers in public accounting firms, including the "Big Four" firms (Deloitte, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Ernst & Young, and KPMG) as well as mid-sized and boutique firms. Opportunities exist in auditing, tax advisory, forensic accounting, and consulting services. Public accountants work with a diverse client base and gain exposure to various industries and business sectors.

3. Corporate Accounting and Finance: Graduates may pursue careers in corporate accounting and finance departments of businesses and corporations across industries such as technology, finance, healthcare, and manufacturing. They may work as financial analysts, internal auditors, budget analysts, or controllers, managing financial operations, analyzing financial data, and providing strategic financial insights to support business decisions.

4. Government Agencies: Many graduates find employment opportunities in government agencies at the federal, state, and local levels. They may work for agencies such as the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), or Government Accountability Office (GAO), performing auditing, taxation, regulatory compliance, and financial management functions.

5. Nonprofit Organizations: Graduates may choose to work for nonprofit organizations, including charitable organizations, educational institutions, healthcare providers, and international NGOs. They may serve as financial managers, grant accountants, or compliance officers, ensuring proper financial stewardship, transparency, and accountability in nonprofit operations.

6. Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination: With the increasing focus on fraud detection and prevention, graduates may pursue careers in forensic accounting and fraud examination. They work with law enforcement agencies, legal firms, and consulting firms to investigate financial crimes, analyze financial data, and provide expert testimony in legal proceedings. Forensic accountants play a critical role in uncovering financial fraud and misconduct.

7. Financial Services Industry: Graduates may explore opportunities in the financial services industry, including banking, investment management, and insurance. They may work as financial analysts, risk managers, or compliance officers, analyzing financial markets, managing investment portfolios, and ensuring regulatory compliance in financial transactions.

8. Consulting Firms: Consulting firms offer opportunities for graduates to apply their accounting knowledge and analytical skills to solve complex business problems. They may work for management consulting firms, advisory firms, or specialized consulting practices, providing financial advisory, risk management, or business process improvement services to clients in various industries.

9. Entrepreneurship and Business Ownership: Some graduates choose to pursue entrepreneurship or business ownership ventures, leveraging their accounting expertise to start their own accounting firms, consulting practices, or business ventures. Entrepreneurial opportunities exist in areas such as tax preparation, financial planning, and small business consulting.

10. Professional Development and Advancement: American University's M.S. in Accounting program provides students with opportunities for professional development and advancement throughout their careers. Alumni networks, continuing education programs, and certifications such as the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) enhance graduates' qualifications and open up further career advancement opportunities in accounting and finance.