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Master of Accountancy
Vermillion, South Dakota
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The MAcc program at USD provides specialized training in accounting and related fields, emphasizing decision-making, problem-solving, and developing leadership abilities within the context of business. It offers a flexible learning environment with both on-campus and 100% online options, making it accessible to a wide range of students, including working professionals. The program typically requires a minimum of 30 graduate hours, comprising a graduate accounting core and restricted electives. Students can choose from various specializations, including Accounting Analytics, Leadership, Business Management, and Finance, allowing for a tailored educational experience to meet individual career aspirations. The program is recognized for its high career placement rates among Beacom School of Business students.
Curriculum: The MAcc curriculum is designed to provide in-depth training across critical accounting and finance subjects. Core accounting courses cover advanced financial accounting topics, auditing, taxation, and accounting information systems. Depending on the chosen specialization, students will delve into areas such as data-centric accounting theories and principles for Accounting Analytics, interpersonal skill development and strategic planning for Leadership, business planning and strategy for Business Management, or corporate finance and investments for the Finance specialization. The curriculum aims to prepare students not only for the CPA exam but also for diverse roles in accounting, auditing, tax, financial planning, and management consulting.
Research Focus: While the MAcc is a professional master's degree with a strong applied focus, it is deeply informed by research and current industry practices. The program's recent curriculum changes, which include a greater focus on accounting analytics and practice, reflect a commitment to incorporating the latest developments in the field. Faculty members in the Division of Accounting & Finance are active researchers, contributing scholarship in areas such as financial accounting, cost accounting, forensic accounting, taxes, and audits. Students are encouraged to develop their analytical and critical thinking skills, enabling them to apply accounting standards and analyze complex financial data, which are inherently research-driven processes.
Industry Engagement: The Beacom School of Business at USD has strong ties with the accounting industry, ensuring the MAcc program's relevance and providing significant opportunities for students. Employers routinely recruit on-campus, and accounting students consistently have high career placement rates. The Division of Accounting & Finance boasts faculty with extensive industry experience and robust connections. Students benefit from access to the state-of-the-art Ellis Finance & Analytics Lab. Opportunities for internships with top accounting firms are available, often leading to full-time positions post-graduation. The program also facilitates networking through professional business organizations and alumni networks, connecting students with successful accounting and finance professionals regionally and globally.
Global Perspective: The MAcc program at USD implicitly fosters a global perspective by preparing students for a profession that operates within an increasingly interconnected global economy. Accountants and financial professionals frequently deal with international business transactions, varying regulatory environments, and diverse economic conditions. While specific dedicated global courses might not be highlighted, the comprehensive training in financial accounting, auditing, and tax principles is applicable across international borders. The program's emphasis on ethical decision-making and understanding the role of business in society also prepares graduates to navigate the complexities of global business environments and adhere to international standards where applicable.
Location
Vermillion, South Dakota
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 12800
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $38
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
The University of South Dakota (USD) offers a variety of scholarship opportunities specifically designed to support international students in achieving their academic goals. These scholarships help reduce the financial burden of studying abroad and make quality education at USD more accessible to talented students from around the world.
Merit-Based Scholarships: USD awards merit-based scholarships to international students based on their academic achievements, leadership potential, and extracurricular involvement. These scholarships recognize outstanding high school or previous college performance and are renewable for multiple years, provided students maintain satisfactory academic progress.
International Student Academic Scholarships: These scholarships are specifically tailored for international undergraduate students and can cover a significant portion of tuition fees. Eligibility is typically based on a combination of academic excellence and the completion of the admission process by specified deadlines. Many of these scholarships are automatically considered upon application, so no separate application is required.
Graduate Assistantships and Fellowships: For international graduate students, USD provides graduate assistantships and fellowships that offer financial support alongside valuable professional experience. These opportunities often include tuition waivers and a stipend in exchange for research, teaching, or administrative work within the university.
Departmental Scholarships: Certain USD academic departments and colleges offer specialized scholarships for international students pursuing specific fields of study, such as business, health sciences, or fine arts. These scholarships often reward exceptional talent and dedication within those disciplines.
A Master of Accountancy (MAcc) from the University of South Dakota (USD) is a highly valued credential that propels graduates into diverse and impactful roles across the financial landscape. This advanced degree, particularly crucial for meeting the 150-hour requirement for CPA licensure in many states, demonstrates a deep understanding of complex accounting principles, financial strategy, and ethical practices. The accounting and auditing profession is stable and essential to every industry, leading to consistent demand for qualified professionals.
Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Public Accounting: This is a primary career path, with CPAs providing auditing, tax preparation, and financial consulting services to individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations. MAcc graduates are specifically prepared to pass the rigorous CPA exam, opening doors to leadership roles in firms ranging from Big Four to regional and local practices.
Financial Auditor: Auditors examine financial records to ensure accuracy, compliance with regulations, and identify any discrepancies or potential fraud. This can involve external auditing (for public reporting) or internal auditing (for organizational efficiency and risk management within a company).
Tax Accountant/Tax Consultant: Specializing in tax laws, these professionals prepare tax returns, provide tax planning advice to minimize liabilities, and ensure compliance for individuals and corporations. This role is crucial during tax seasons and for ongoing financial strategy.
Forensic Accountant: Combining accounting expertise with investigative skills, forensic accountants investigate financial crimes such as fraud, embezzlement, and money laundering. They often work with law enforcement, legal firms, or corporations to uncover financial misconduct and provide expert witness testimony.
Corporate Controller: Within a corporate setting, a Corporate Controller oversees all accounting operations, including financial reporting, accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and budgeting. They ensure the integrity of financial data and contribute to strategic financial decisions.
Financial Analyst: While distinct from pure accounting, an MAcc provides a strong foundation for financial analysis roles. These professionals evaluate financial data, market trends, and investment opportunities to provide insights and recommendations that guide investment decisions for companies or clients.
Government Accountant/Auditor: Accountants and auditors are essential in various government agencies (federal, state, local), ensuring the proper use of public funds, compliance with regulations, and preparing financial reports for governmental entities. This can include roles with the IRS or state treasury departments.
Management Consultant (with Accounting Focus): MAcc graduates can leverage their analytical and problem-solving skills to advise businesses on improving financial performance, optimizing processes, implementing new accounting systems, and managing risk.
Accounting Manager: An MAcc positions graduates for leadership roles within corporate accounting departments. Accounting Managers supervise teams, oversee the preparation of financial statements, ensure compliance with accounting standards, and contribute to overall financial strategy.
Internal Auditor: Working within a large organization, Internal Auditors assess the effectiveness of internal controls, compliance with policies, and efficiency of operations to identify risks and recommend improvements that enhance organizational performance and safeguard assets.
