M.A. in Communication
The M.A. in Communication at Purdue University Northwest is a 36-credit hour program th...
Master of Accountancy
Hammond, Indiana
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The MAcc program at PNW is a 30-credit hour program that can be completed in one to two years, depending on whether students pursue full-time or part-time study. It features evening classes to accommodate working professionals. The curriculum is designed to provide both breadth and depth of accounting knowledge, with options to pursue concentrations in Taxation or Forensic Accounting Analysis, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific career interests. The program prides itself on a CPA pass rate among its graduates that exceeds the national average, indicating the quality and comprehensiveness of its preparation.
AACSB Accreditation: A significant hallmark of Purdue University Northwest's Master of Accountancy program is its accreditation by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). This prestigious accreditation is globally recognized as the highest standard of achievement for business schools and accounting programs. Held by less than five percent of the world's 13,000 business programs, AACSB accreditation assures students that the curriculum is rigorous, faculty are highly qualified, and the program is relevant to the demands of the global accounting profession, enhancing the value and recognition of the PNW MAcc degree.
Curriculum: The 30-credit MAcc curriculum consists of 21 credit hours of required core accounting courses and nine credit hours of elective courses. Core courses typically include Advanced Accounting, Advanced Taxation, Management Accounting II, and a capstone course in Advanced Financial Reporting. Students can specialize further by selecting from a Taxation concentration (e.g., Tax Practice and Standards, Tax for Managers) or a Forensic Accounting Analysis concentration (e.g., Fraud Data Analysis, Criminology and Legal Issues, Advanced Fraud Investigation). This structure ensures a strong foundation in core accounting principles while allowing for in-depth study in specialized, high-demand areas.
Research Focus: While the MAcc program at Purdue University Northwest strongly emphasizes practical application and preparation for professional certifications, it is taught by faculty members who draw upon academic research and professional experience. The curriculum is designed to enhance students' technical skills, improve their written and oral communication, and develop their critical thinking and leadership abilities. This includes fostering analytical and strategic thinking, often through case studies and simulations that require students to analyze complex accounting issues. Students are encouraged to engage actively in discussions and research, fostering a dynamic learning environment that nurtures problem-solving skills rooted in contemporary accounting principles.
Industry Engagement: Purdue University Northwest's College of Business, which houses the MAcc program, maintains strong connections with the accounting profession and industry. Faculty members often have professional experience (e.g., as CPAs or former audit managers), bringing real-world insights into the classroom. The program emphasizes the development of essential managerial skills and connections that can advance careers. PNW alumni work for innovative organizations across the region and globally, including major accounting firms like Ernst & Young. The university also facilitates practical learning experiences, such as students working with the VITA program to assist with tax preparation for the community, providing valuable hands-on experience and industry exposure.
Global Perspective: The Master of Accountancy program at Purdue University Northwest implicitly incorporates a global perspective by preparing students for professional accounting roles in an increasingly interconnected world. The AACSB accreditation itself provides international recognition, indicating a program that meets global standards for quality business education. The curriculum includes advanced topics that can be relevant to global business operations, and the program's outcomes emphasize that graduates are prepared for opportunities "around the country and the world." The diverse community at PNW, with students from many countries, further enriches the learning environment by exposing students to various cultural and business perspectives relevant to a globalized accounting profession.
Location
Hammond, Indiana
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 14470
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $75
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 80 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 115.
Purdue University Northwest (PNW) is dedicated to supporting international students through various scholarship opportunities that recognize academic excellence, leadership, and diverse talents. These scholarships help reduce the financial burden and make quality education more accessible.
Merit-Based Scholarships: PNW offers several merit-based scholarships for international students based on academic achievement, standardized test scores, and other criteria. These scholarships can significantly offset tuition costs and are awarded automatically during the admissions process or through a separate application.
Departmental Scholarships: Many academic departments at Purdue University Northwest provide scholarships specific to their fields of study. These awards reward outstanding students pursuing degrees in areas such as engineering, business, health sciences, and more. International students are encouraged to contact their department of interest for detailed scholarship opportunities.
Renewable Scholarships: Some scholarships at PNW are renewable annually, provided students maintain a satisfactory GPA and meet specific academic requirements. This offers ongoing financial support throughout the duration of their degree programs.
Graduates of Purdue University Northwest's Master of Accountancy (MAcc) program are highly sought-after professionals, equipped with advanced accounting knowledge and skills essential for success in today's complex financial landscape. The program's AACSB accreditation and strong emphasis on CPA exam preparation mean that alumni are well-positioned for diverse roles across various sectors. The demand for accountants and auditors is projected to remain strong, with a consistent number of job openings anticipated annually.
Certified Public Accountant (CPA): This is a primary goal for many MAcc graduates. CPAs provide auditing, tax preparation, financial planning, and consulting services to individuals, businesses, and government entities, often working in public accounting firms.
Corporate Controller: Controllers supervise all accounting and financial functions within a company. They are responsible for preparing financial statements, managing internal controls, overseeing financial planning, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations.
Financial Analyst: MAcc graduates can work as financial analysts, assessing financial data, market trends, and investment opportunities to provide insights and recommendations that guide strategic financial decisions for companies or clients.
Auditor (Internal or External): Auditors examine financial records to ensure accuracy, compliance with regulations, and identify potential risks or inefficiencies. External auditors work for public accounting firms, while internal auditors work within organizations.
Tax Accountant/Consultant: Specializing in taxation, these professionals assist individuals and businesses with tax planning, compliance, and preparation, aiming to minimize tax liabilities while adhering to legal requirements.
Forensic Accountant: Leveraging their specialized training in forensic accounting, graduates investigate financial fraud, embezzlement, and other financial crimes. They analyze financial data, conduct audits, and often work with law enforcement or in litigation support.
Management Accountant (CMA): These accountants focus on internal financial reporting to help management make informed business decisions. They work on budgeting, cost analysis, performance measurement, and strategic planning within organizations.
Government Accountant/Auditor: MAcc graduates can work for federal, state, or local government agencies, managing public funds, preparing budgets, conducting audits of government programs, and ensuring financial transparency and accountability.
Accounting Manager: Accounting managers oversee the daily operations of an accounting department, ensuring the timely and accurate delivery of financial statements, implementing accounting policies, and leading teams of junior accountants.
Compliance Officer/Risk Manager: In an increasingly regulated environment, MAcc graduates are well-suited to roles that ensure a company's adherence to legal and ethical standards, develop compliance policies, and assess and mitigate financial risks.
