College of Business

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Graduate Programs : MS in Accountancy

Master of Science in Accountancy

The Master of Science in Accountancy (MSA) is a focused program of studies that allows students to specialize in the area of accounting. The program provides an emphasis in accounting, with specialization in financial accounting, auditing, managerial accounting, taxation, and accounting information systems.

The degree program is flexible, based on individual needs, and thus is suitable either for students who have no prior accounting or business course work, or those with undergraduate business degrees. The program may be undertaken on a full time or part time basis. 

The degree is suitable for students who wish to prepare for the CPA exam. Due to proposed changes in the CPA requirements for California, the program may also be modified to obtain the 150-hour unit requirement due to take effect in 2014.

Course Requirements

The MSA program curriculum consists of the following:

  • Career Skills & Communications workshop series
  • Business Foundation courses in all the functional areas of business
  • Advanced requirements and Electives

Depending on the academic background of individual students, the total course load varies from a minimum of 10 courses (30 units) to a maximum of 16 courses (48 units).

For full details, see MSA : Course Requirements.

Admissions

Students must apply online through CSU Mentor and send to the university an application fee, one copy of their transcripts, a written a statement of purpose, take the GMAT exam, take TOEFL or IELTS if from a foreign university, submit a résumé and two letters of reference.

For deadlines, requirements and forms, see MSA: Admissions.

Resources

For prospective and current graduate student resources, including schedules, deadlines, requirements, and forms, see Resources for: Graduate Students.

More Information

For more program information, see Bulletin: Graduate Degree Programs in Business.

Come to an Open House at the downtown campus to learn more about the programs offered. Meet professors, students and professional colleagues.

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