Accounting Department Launches New Online Master's and Certificate Programs

June 29, 2017
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Eller student

The Eller College of Management now offers two new online accounting programs: the Online Master of Science in Accounting and the Online Graduate Accounting Certificate. The new programs join the existing on-ground MS in Accounting and Master of Accounting programs.

The online MS in Accounting program is created for individuals who desire a more flexible schedule. "The Online MSA allows a student to continue developing their professional career in their current place of employment," said Janeé Johnson, accounting lecturer and director of accounting master's programs and outreach. "The advanced coursework will help students further a career in professional accounting while earning credit towards obtaining a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license."

"Many states, such as California and Texas, have unique requirements for their CPA certification," added master's program coordinator Alex Miller. "The coursework in the Online MSA program will help meet these unique requirements."

Students in the UA accounting master's programs perform particularly well on the CPA exam, with a 70% pass rate on their first attempt within one year after graduation. The national average pass rate in 2016 was 49%. This spring two Master of Accounting students -- Adam Martinez (no. 3) and Joshua DeYoung (no. 9) -- scored in the top ten in the state of Arizona on the CPA.

While the on-ground accounting master's programs are designed around a set schedule of courses on specific days and times, online courses are self-paced within the semester. Students in the Online MSA complete 30 units comprised of 18 required online accounting classes and 12 online MBA and accounting electives. The program has start dates for fall, spring and summer, with rolling admissions. The length of the program will vary between students, but may be completed in as little as one year.

The Online Graduate Accounting Certificate is designed for students and professionals with a foundational accounting background. Students can select nine to 18 units of online graduate-level accounting coursework tailored to their needs. This certificate provides advanced-level accounting courses to supplement foundational knowledge. It also enables students to obtain additional coursework necessary for becoming a CPA.