Master of Business Administration - Accounting
The MBA program at the University of the Potomac typically consists of 12 courses, tota...
Master of Business Administration - Accounting
Washington, D.C., Virginia
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Program Overview
The MBA program at the University of the Potomac typically consists of 12 courses, totaling 36 academic credits. The curriculum is structured to provide a strong foundation in general business management before specializing in accounting. Students complete eight core MBA courses (24 credits) that cover functional areas of business, and then select four specialized courses (12 credits) within the Accounting concentration. The program aims to equip graduates with an in-depth understanding of accounting and auditing practice, standards, and ethics, preparing them to evaluate complex accounting problems from multiple business disciplines.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the MBA with an Accounting concentration starts with a robust set of core MBA courses. These typically include: "Managerial Accounting," "Managerial Economics," "Managerial Finance," "Strategic Management," "Human Resources and Organizational Behavior," "Marketing Management," "Management and Information Systems," and "Business Ethics." Following these foundational courses, students delve into the Accounting concentration, which includes courses such as: "Financial Accounting," "Accounting Information System," "Advanced Auditing," and "Advanced Federal Taxation." This blend ensures students not only gain advanced accounting expertise but also a holistic understanding of business operations and strategic decision-making.
Research Focus: The University of the Potomac's MBA with an Accounting concentration emphasizes the application of knowledge and critical evaluation rather than traditional, in-depth academic research culminating in a thesis. The program aims to prepare students to "evaluate complex accounting problems from the perspective of multiple business disciplines and professional standards" and to "formulate, communicate, and defend recommendations to decision-makers based on those evaluations." This focus suggests an applied research approach, where students utilize knowledge, skills, and concepts of accounting and finance using evidence-based practice methodologies to address real-world business challenges. While specific research courses beyond foundational business analytics may not be explicitly listed as a standalone "research focus" for this specific concentration, the program's outcomes underscore the importance of analytical thinking and data-driven problem-solving in the accounting field.
Industry Engagement: The University of the Potomac demonstrates its commitment to industry engagement through a curriculum designed to meet the demands of the modern workforce and its focus on preparing students for professional certifications. The MBA Accounting concentration directly addresses the skills needed for careers in public, private, and government sectors. The program's learning objectives highlight the development of skills like working collaboratively across disciplines to resolve accounting problems using technology-based solutions, and producing clear, concise business analyses and persuasive oral presentations. These practical skills are highly valued in the accounting industry. Furthermore, the university emphasizes that its graduates have gone on to work at notable companies, suggesting a strong connection between the program's outcomes and industry employment opportunities.
Global Perspective: The University of the Potomac's MBA program, including the Accounting concentration, generally incorporates a global perspective by aiming to prepare graduates to identify and artfully respond to challenges related to "U.S. and foreign businesses." While specific courses exclusively focused on international accounting standards or global financial markets might be electives or integrated into broader topics like "Managerial Finance" or "Strategic Management," the overall MBA framework is designed to equip students to operate in an interconnected global economy. The university's diverse student body and faculty can also contribute to a learning environment that exposes students to varied international business contexts and accounting practices, fostering a broader understanding of global financial landscapes.
Location
Washington, D.C., Virginia
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 22250
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 60% 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 59 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 100.
The University of the Potomac is dedicated to making education affordable and accessible for international students by offering a variety of scholarship opportunities. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need, helping reduce the overall cost of education for deserving students from around the world.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students demonstrating strong academic performance may qualify for merit-based scholarships. These awards reward high GPA, outstanding achievements, and exceptional contributions in previous educational settings. Merit scholarships can significantly lower tuition fees and encourage students to maintain high academic standards throughout their studies.
Need-Based Scholarships: The university also offers need-based scholarships designed to assist international students facing financial challenges. Applicants are encouraged to submit detailed financial information during the admissions process to be considered for these scholarships, which aim to bridge the gap between the cost of education and the student’s financial resources.
Special Program Scholarships: Certain academic programs at the University of the Potomac provide dedicated scholarships for international students, especially in fields such as business administration, information technology, and cybersecurity. These program-specific awards support students pursuing careers in high-demand industries.
Graduates of the University of the Potomac's MBA with an Accounting concentration are equipped with a unique blend of business acumen and specialized accounting expertise.
Senior Accountant / Accounting Manager: Graduates can advance to manage accounting operations, oversee financial reporting, prepare budgets, and assist with tax processing for corporations, non-profits, or government agencies.
Financial Analyst: With an MBA and accounting specialization, graduates are well-suited to analyze financial data, evaluate investment opportunities, perform valuations, and provide strategic recommendations to management or clients.
Auditor (Internal or External): Professionals in this role assess financial records, operations, and internal controls to ensure accuracy, compliance with regulations, and identify areas for improvement. This can be within a company (internal) or for external audit firms.
Tax Manager/Specialist: Graduates can advise individuals or organizations on tax planning, ensure compliance with federal, state, and local tax laws, and prepare complex tax returns.
Controller: This leadership position involves overseeing a company's accounting department, managing financial statements, budgeting, cost accounting, and ensuring the accuracy of financial reporting.
Forensic Accountant: Combining accounting skills with investigative techniques, these professionals analyze financial records to uncover fraud, embezzlement, or other financial misconduct for legal cases, businesses, or government agencies.
Financial Reporting Specialist: Graduates can focus on preparing, analyzing, and ensuring the accuracy of an organization's financial statements and reports, often in compliance with GAAP or IFRS.
Budget Analyst: These professionals help organizations, institutions, or government entities plan their finances, prepare budgets, and monitor spending to ensure financial health and achieve strategic goals.
Management Consultant (Financial/Accounting Focus): Graduates can work for consulting firms, advising businesses on improving financial performance, optimizing accounting processes, implementing new financial systems, or navigating complex regulatory environments.
Chief Financial Officer (CFO) / VP of Finance (Long-Term Goal): While typically requiring significant experience, the strategic and leadership skills gained from an MBA with an accounting focus provide a strong foundation for aspiring to top executive roles that oversee all financial aspects of an organization.
