Master of Business Administration - Accounting
The MBA program at the University of the Potomac typically consists of 12 courses, tota...
M.S. in Accounting
Washington, D.C., Virginia
INTAKE: Jan, Mar, Apr, Jun, Sep & Oct
Program Overview
The M.S. in Accounting (MSAC) program at the University of the Potomac typically consists of 12 courses, totaling 36 academic credits. The curriculum is structured to provide an in-depth understanding of accounting and auditing practice, standards, and ethics. It prepares students to evaluate complex accounting problems from the perspective of multiple business disciplines and professional standards, enabling them to formulate, communicate, and defend recommendations to decision-makers. The program also emphasizes the utilization of knowledge, skills, and concepts of accounting and finance using evidence-based practice methodologies, and the ability to work collaboratively to resolve accounting problems using technology-based solutions. The program is generally designed for completion within approximately two years.
Curriculum: The 36-semester-hour curriculum for the M.S. in Accounting at the University of the Potomac includes a comprehensive set of accounting and related business courses. The program integrates core business subjects that complement advanced accounting topics. Key courses in the curriculum typically include: "Managerial Accounting," "Managerial Finance," "Financial Accounting," "Accounting Information System," "Advanced Auditing," "Systems Auditing," "Advanced Accounting Theory," "Forensic Accounting," "International Accounting Systems," "Advanced Federal Taxation," and "Advanced Business Taxation." The program culminates with a "CAPSTONE: Accounting" course, providing an opportunity for students to synthesize their learning and apply it to complex scenarios. This diverse curriculum ensures graduates are well-versed in both traditional and contemporary accounting practices.
Research Focus: The M.S. in Accounting program at the University of the Potomac is highly applied, focusing on equipping students with the analytical and critical thinking skills necessary to address real-world accounting challenges, rather than on traditional academic research leading to a thesis. The program's learning outcomes explicitly state that graduates will be able to "utilize the knowledge, skills, and concepts of accounting and finance using evidence-based practice methodologies" and "use ethical data collection techniques to research accounting and tax literature in order to apply professional accounting standards, rules, and interpretations." This indicates a strong emphasis on practical research, problem-solving, and the application of professional standards to complex accounting situations. The Capstone course further reinforces this applied focus, where students engage in in-depth analysis of an accounting issue.
Industry Engagement: The University of the Potomac's M.S. in Accounting program demonstrates strong industry engagement by aligning its curriculum directly with the demands of the modern accounting profession and the requirements for professional certifications. The program explicitly states its goal to prepare students to be "competitive in the increasingly cross-disciplinary focus of accounting practice" and to "pursue obtaining a CPA license." The inclusion of courses such as "Advanced Auditing," "Forensic Accounting," and "Advanced Federal Taxation" directly reflects the skills and knowledge sought by employers in public accounting firms, corporations, and government agencies. The university also highlights that its courses are taught by "real-world professional faculty," implying that instructors bring current industry experience into the classroom, further bridging the gap between academia and professional practice.
Global Perspective: The M.S. in Accounting program at the University of the Potomac incorporates a global perspective through its curriculum and overall program design. A key course, "International Accounting Systems," directly addresses the complexities of accounting in a global context, examining different accounting standards and practices across various countries. Furthermore, the broader objectives of the University of the Potomac's programs generally aim to prepare graduates to "identify and artfully respond to challenges related to U.S. and foreign businesses." Given the increasingly interconnected nature of global finance and commerce, understanding international accounting standards (like IFRS) and cross-border financial transactions is crucial. The university's diverse student body also contributes to a learning environment that naturally fosters a global understanding of accounting principles and their application.
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 M.S. in Accounting program possess a robust understanding of financial principles, auditing practices, tax regulations, and accounting information systems.
Certified Public Accountant (CPA): This is a primary goal for many MS in Accounting graduates, allowing them to perform external audits, prepare financial reports for regulatory bodies (like the SEC), and represent clients before the IRS.
Auditor (Internal or External): Graduates can work for public accounting firms conducting external audits or for corporations as internal auditors, assessing financial records, controls, and compliance to ensure accuracy and mitigate risk.
Tax Accountant/Manager: These professionals specialize in tax planning, compliance, and preparation for individuals and businesses, often in complex federal, state, and international tax environments.
Forensic Accountant: Combining accounting knowledge with investigative skills, forensic accountants investigate financial fraud, embezzlement, and other financial crimes, often presenting findings in legal proceedings.
Financial Analyst: Graduates can leverage their strong financial and analytical skills to assess market trends, evaluate investment opportunities, and provide strategic financial advice to businesses or clients.
Controller: This leadership role involves overseeing a company's entire accounting department, managing financial statements, budgeting, cost accounting, and ensuring regulatory compliance.
Accounting Information Systems (AIS) Specialist: With expertise in accounting information systems, graduates can design, implement, and manage the technology infrastructure that supports an organization's financial reporting and operations.
Management Accountant: These professionals focus on providing financial information and analysis to internal management for strategic decision-making, cost control, budgeting, and performance evaluation.
International Accountant: Given the "International Accounting Systems" course, graduates are prepared to work with multinational corporations, navigating diverse accounting standards (e.g., IFRS vs. GAAP) and cross-border financial transactions.
Budget Analyst: These professionals work in various organizations to develop, analyze, and manage budgets, ensuring financial resources are allocated efficiently and effectively to meet organizational goals.
