The objective of the Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) program is to prepare accounting students for management positions in accounting. The program will build on the knowledge and tools from the students’ undergraduate education, allowing them to achieve a greater degree of sophistication in accounting, auditing, and tax. The MS in Accounting degree will provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to have successful careers in public and private accounting.
The completion of this program will help students in meeting the 150 hour education requirement for eligibility as a Certified Public Accountant in Massachusetts.
Salem State University’s Master of Science in Accounting degree uses a variable credit model. Enrolled students are eligible for one of three tracks:
Core Track: Students with an undergraduate degree in accounting can complete the degree with 30 graduate credits.
Business-to-Accounting Track: Students with an undergraduate degree in business can complete the degree with 30-45 graduate credits.
Transitions Track: Students with a non-business undergraduate degree can complete the degree with 30-54 graduate credits.
Note: Students in the Business-to-Accounting or Transitions track who have taken an equivalent course may qualify to have the course requirement waived in consultation with MSA program coordinator.
The Accounting and Finance department also offers a 15 credit Graduate Certificate in Accounting, intended for students who do not want to complete a graduate degree, or who want to take graduate accounting courses prior to formally matriculating into the MSA program. The certificate consists of the five MSA Accounting Foundation courses.
Students who have previously taken Intermediate Accounting I and II, Advanced Accounting, Federal Taxation, or Auditing Theory and Practice in a four years US.institution can receive up to two course waivers.
Admission Policies
Additional Admission Requirements
Students will be evaluated for the three different tracks within the MS in Accounting program based on their prior degrees and/or courses in accounting and business. For all MSA tracks, in additional to general admission requirements, students will be required to have a 2.75 GPA in accounting major courses or a 2.75 GPA in a undergraduate accounting certificate. These minimal standards are not the only factors considered in making admission decisions.
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