M.S. in Criminal Justice
The M.S. in Criminal Justice at UTC is structured to provide students with advanced kno...
Master of Business Administration: Accounting
Chattanooga, Tennessee
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The Master of Accountancy (MAcc) at UTC is an advanced study program in accounting, providing greater breadth and depth than a baccalaureate or general MBA program. It is primarily for students who wish to pursue a career as a professional accountant, including preparing them for the Uniform CPA Examination. The program is offered in a 100% online delivery mode for the Executive MAcc, and typically in a face-to-face format for other students. It focuses on increasing awareness and knowledge of current and emerging technical issues in accounting, developing research and communication skills, and preparing graduates to enter the workforce as professional accountants.
AACSB-Accredited: A significant hallmark of the UTC MAcc program is its AACSB International accreditation in both business and accounting. AACSB International (The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) is the highest standard of accreditation for business schools worldwide. Less than 10% of the world's business schools achieve this dual accreditation, signifying that UTC's Gary W. Rollins College of Business and its accounting programs meet rigorous standards for quality, faculty scholarship, high-caliber teaching, and relevant curriculum, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for success.
Curriculum: The MAcc curriculum at UTC is designed to provide comprehensive accounting expertise. Core courses typically include Advanced Managerial Accounting & Control, Advanced Accounting Information Systems, Tax Research and Advanced Tax Topics, Financial Accounting Theory & Issues, Advanced Auditing, and Professional Accounting Certification. The program also offers a specialization in Forensic Data Analytics, allowing students to delve into the application of data analysis techniques in forensic accounting contexts. The curriculum aims to equip students with the technical knowledge and analytical skills crucial for navigating complex accounting scenarios.
Research Focus: While the MAcc program is highly practical and career-oriented, it also fosters a focus on research and critical thinking within the accounting domain. Courses like "Tax Research and Advanced Tax Topics" and "Advanced Auditing" require students to engage in research to understand complex regulations, emerging issues, and best practices. The program emphasizes developing research and communication skills, which are essential for professional accountants who must stay current with evolving standards and effectively convey complex financial information. Faculty may also conduct research in areas relevant to accounting, which can inform the curriculum and offer insights into current industry trends.
Industry Engagement: The UTC MAcc program is deeply connected to the accounting profession. Its curriculum is designed to prepare students directly for the CPA exam and professional accounting roles, reflecting current industry demands. The program's strong AACSB accreditation signifies its relevance to the business world. Graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce as professional accountants. While not explicitly detailed in the search results for industry engagement within the MAcc, typically, AACSB-accredited programs foster connections with accounting firms, professional organizations (like the AICPA and state CPA societies), and alumni networks, which can provide opportunities for internships, guest speakers, and career development.
Global Perspective: The MAcc program, while focusing on U.S. accounting standards and CPA preparation, inherently incorporates a global perspective by addressing the universal principles of financial reporting, auditing, and taxation that have international implications. In an increasingly globalized economy, accountants often deal with multinational corporations, international financial transactions, and varying regulatory frameworks. The program's emphasis on developing strong research and critical thinking skills prepares graduates to adapt to diverse international accounting environments and understand the global interconnectedness of financial markets and business operations. The option for forensic data analytics can also have global applications in combating financial crime.
Location
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 26852
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $40
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.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 100.
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) offers a variety of scholarship opportunities specifically designed to support international students pursuing their education in the United States. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, leadership qualities, and contributions to the campus community, helping to make higher education more affordable and accessible for students from around the world.
Merit-Based Scholarships: UTC provides merit-based scholarships that international students can apply for, typically based on their academic achievements, standardized test scores, and overall potential. These scholarships often cover partial to full tuition and are renewable based on maintaining satisfactory academic performance.
International Student Scholarships: Special scholarships are available exclusively for international students, helping offset tuition fees and living expenses. These awards may vary annually and are competitive, encouraging students to demonstrate strong academic records and involvement in extracurricular activities.
Departmental Scholarships: Many academic departments at UTC offer scholarships targeted at students within specific fields of study. International students enrolled in areas such as Business, Engineering, Health Sciences, or Arts and Sciences can explore scholarship options through their respective colleges or departments.
While the initial request mentioned a "Master of Business Administration: Accounting," the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) specifically offers a Master of Accountancy (MAcc). This distinction is crucial as the MAcc is a specialized, post-baccalaureate degree designed for in-depth accounting knowledge, often fulfilling the educational requirements for the Uniform CPA Examination. Graduates of UTC's MAcc program are highly sought after, with strong placement rates and excellent preparation for diverse roles in the accounting and finance sectors.
Certified Public Accountant (CPA): This is the most common and direct path for MAcc graduates. CPAs work in public accounting firms (including the Big Four: Deloitte, EY, PwC, KPMG) providing services such as auditing, tax preparation and planning, and advisory services to individuals, businesses, and government entities. The MAcc program helps fulfill the 150-hour requirement for CPA licensure in many states.
Auditor (Internal or External): Auditors are responsible for reviewing financial documents, internal controls, and operational processes to ensure accuracy, compliance with regulations, and efficiency. External auditors work for public accounting firms verifying clients' financial statements, while internal auditors work within organizations to assess and improve operations and risk management.
Tax Accountant/Consultant: Specializing in tax law and regulations, these professionals prepare tax returns, develop tax strategies, and advise individuals and businesses on minimizing tax liabilities while ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local tax laws. They can work in public accounting, corporate tax departments, or as independent consultants.
Forensic Accountant: This exciting and growing field involves investigating financial discrepancies, fraud, and other financial crimes. Forensic accountants analyze complex financial data, trace illicit transactions, and often provide expert testimony in legal proceedings. They work for law enforcement agencies, corporations, and consulting firms.
Financial Analyst: While distinct from pure accounting, MAcc graduates with strong analytical skills are well-positioned for financial analyst roles. They evaluate financial data, conduct market research, and create forecasts to help businesses make informed investment decisions, assess financial performance, and develop strategies for growth.
Corporate Accountant/Managerial Accountant: These professionals work within organizations to manage budgets, prepare financial statements, provide insights to support business decisions, and ensure compliance with accounting regulations. Roles can include Senior Accountant, Accounting Manager, or Cost Accountant, focusing on internal financial health and strategy.
Financial Manager/Controller: With experience, MAcc graduates can ascend to financial leadership roles. A Corporate Controller oversees all accounting and financial reporting functions within a company, while a Financial Manager provides strategic financial guidance, manages investments, and directs financial planning.
IT Auditor/Information Systems Auditor: As technology increasingly underpins financial systems, MAcc graduates, especially those with a Forensic Data Analytics specialization, can audit information systems to ensure data integrity, security, and compliance. They assess risks related to IT infrastructure and processes.
Government or Non-Profit Accountant: MAcc graduates can apply their skills in the public sector, working for federal, state, or local government agencies, or for non-profit organizations. They manage public funds, prepare budgets, ensure compliance with government accounting standards, and support financial transparency.
Business Consultant (Financial/Accounting Focus): Leveraging their comprehensive understanding of financial operations and business strategy, MAcc graduates can advise companies on improving financial processes, implementing new accounting systems, managing risk, and enhancing overall financial performance. They may work for large consulting firms or specialize as independent consultants.
