M.A. in Communication
The M.A. in Communication at Purdue University Northwest is a 36-credit hour program th...
Master of Business Administration - Forensic Accounting
Hammond, Indiana
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The MBA with a Forensic Accounting concentration at PNW typically requires 36-42 credit hours, depending on the student's undergraduate background and any necessary prerequisite courses. It strategically combines the core curriculum of a traditional MBA, providing a strong foundation in management, marketing, finance, and operations, with in-depth coursework specific to forensic accounting and fraud investigation. Classes are generally offered in the evenings to accommodate working professionals. The program aims to develop professionals who are not only skilled in traditional business functions but also possess the investigative techniques and legal understanding essential for identifying and resolving complex financial crimes.
AACSB Accreditation: A critical factor distinguishing Purdue University Northwest's MBA program, including its Forensic Accounting concentration, is its accreditation by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). This accreditation is globally recognized as the pinnacle of quality for business education, achieved by less than five percent of business schools worldwide. AACSB accreditation assures that PNW's MBA Forensic Accounting graduates receive a rigorous, relevant, and high-quality education, making them highly competitive in the job market and providing international recognition for their degree. PNW's College of Business programs, including the MBA, recently earned reaffirmation of accreditation by AACSB in June 2023, underscoring its continuous commitment to excellence.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the MBA with a Forensic Accounting concentration is structured to provide both broad business knowledge and deep specialization. Students complete core MBA courses (around 30 credits) that cover foundational business areas such such as Economic Theory, Accounting for Managers, Advanced Corporate Finance, Marketing Management, and Strategic Management. For the Forensic Accounting concentration, students take an additional 12 credit hours from specialized courses. These courses include "Fraud Investigation" (MGMT 51500), "Fraud Data Analysis" (MGMT 51700), "Criminology And Legal Issues" (MGMT 51800), and "Advanced Fraud Investigation" (MGMT 51900). This blend ensures graduates are adept at both strategic business decision-making and the intricate details of financial forensics.
Research Focus: While primarily focused on professional practice and skill development, the MBA with a Forensic Accounting concentration at Purdue University Northwest integrates a strong analytical and investigative research component. Faculty members, who often have practical experience as CPAs or former audit managers, bring their insights from professional practice and scholarly research into the classroom. The curriculum emphasizes data analysis software and techniques, critical thinking, and the application of investigative methodologies to financial records, which are all inherently research-driven activities. Students are trained to "play detective" by examining financial records for irregularities, trends, and patterns, preparing them to conduct thorough forensic financial analysis.
Industry Engagement: Purdue University Northwest's College of Business maintains robust connections with the accounting and legal professions, as well as various industries. The program's emphasis on practical, hands-on learning through case studies and the use of data analysis software directly reflects industry needs. Faculty with real-world forensic accounting experience provide invaluable insights. PNW's connections with employers, including major accounting firms like Ernst & Young, CliftonLarsonAllen LLP, RSM US LLP, and even government organizations like the FBI and IRS, offer students significant networking opportunities and pathways to employment. Students also have opportunities to engage in activities like the Finance and Accounting Club, further enhancing their industry exposure.
Global Perspective: The MBA with a Forensic Accounting concentration at Purdue University Northwest incorporates a global perspective by preparing students to investigate financial crimes that often transcend national borders in today's interconnected global economy. The AACSB accreditation itself confers international recognition, indicating a program that meets global standards for quality business education. While specific "global forensic accounting" courses might be integrated into broader topics, the program's emphasis on understanding complex financial systems, diverse regulatory environments, and the nature of transnational fraud inherently prepares graduates for a globally-minded career. The university's diverse student body further enriches the learning environment, exposing students to various cultural and business practices relevant to global financial investigations.
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 Business Administration (MBA) with a Forensic Accounting concentration are uniquely positioned for high-demand roles that combine sharp financial acumen with investigative prowess. The program's AACSB accreditation ensures a rigorous and comprehensive business education, while the specialized coursework in forensic accounting equips alumni to detect, prevent, and respond to financial irregularities and fraud. The demand for forensic accountants is on the rise globally due to increased corporate fraud, regulatory scrutiny, and the complexity of financial crimes, making this a highly sought-after specialization.
Forensic Accountant: This is the most direct path, involving the investigation of financial fraud, embezzlement, money laundering, and other financial crimes. They analyze financial records, interview witnesses, trace funds, and often provide expert testimony in court.
Fraud Examiner/Investigator: These professionals specialize in identifying and investigating allegations of fraud within organizations. They may work for corporations, financial institutions, insurance companies, or government agencies.
Internal Auditor (with Fraud Focus): Within companies, they assess financial operations, internal controls, and compliance with regulations, with a specific lens on identifying vulnerabilities to fraud and recommending preventative measures.
Litigation Support Professional: Working with law firms or consulting firms, they provide financial analysis, prepare evidence, and offer expert witness testimony in legal proceedings involving financial disputes, divorce, or bankruptcy.
Risk Management Specialist: Graduates apply their understanding of financial vulnerabilities to identify, assess, and mitigate fraud-related risks within an organization, developing and implementing policies to minimize exposure.
Compliance Officer (Anti-Money Laundering/Financial Crime): In financial institutions or other regulated industries, they ensure adherence to laws and regulations related to money laundering, terrorism financing, and other financial crimes, often involving complex transaction monitoring and reporting.
Financial Investigator (Government Agencies): Roles within federal agencies like the FBI, IRS, or state law enforcement often involve investigating white-collar crime, tax evasion, and other financial misconduct.
Corporate Security Consultant: Leveraging their expertise in financial fraud, they advise companies on strengthening their internal controls, implementing anti-fraud programs, and improving overall corporate security to prevent financial losses.
Valuation Specialist (for Litigation): In cases involving business disputes, mergers, or acquisitions, forensic accountants may be called upon to provide an impartial valuation of a company or assets, often requiring in-depth financial analysis and a keen eye for potential misrepresentations.
Data Analyst (Fraud Detection): With strong analytical skills from their MBA, graduates can specialize in using data analytics tools and techniques to identify suspicious patterns and anomalies in large financial datasets, proactively detecting potential fraud schemes.
