The Master of Science in Accountancy is a flexible degree program designed for both accounting and non-accounting undergraduates who aspire to a profession in accounting. Coursework includes advanced financial reporting, auditing, taxation, IT auditing and financial statement analysis. Undergraduate accounting students enroll in a course of study to earn a master’s degree and 30 additional units required for CPA licensure. An ambitious, highly motivated liberal arts, sciences or business undergraduate will need to complete the intensive Certificate in Accounting Fundamentals program during the summer semester before matriculation into the MSA degree program.
Purpose of the MSA Program
The MSA program prepares students for a career in public or corporate accounting with a strong foundation for both public accounting certification (CPA) and career advancement.
Educational Objectives
Students with an MSA degree should understand the accounting principles and procedures involved in measuring, recording, summarizing and reporting financial and nonfinancial data for business organizations; taxation concepts; auditing and control procedures; and the ethical and legal challenges in an accounting career. They should communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, evaluate information technology, and demonstrate analytical proficiency.
Benefits of the MSA
The program is designed for accounting undergraduates who want to further their studies in accounting while acquiring an additional 30 units needed for CPA licensure. It also allows liberal arts /sciences/business undergraduates who are interested in changing careers and entrance to the accounting profession. The course work and optional internship provide opportunities to build a framework for a successful and rewarding career in public or corporate accounting.
Expected January, August 2025
Lucas College and Graduate School of Business
Business Tower 650,
One Washington Square,
SAN JOSE,
California,
95192, United States
Students must have a four-year bachelor's degree from an accredited an accredited college or university in the United States or from a recognized institution if the degree was earned outside of the United States. A GPA of 3.0 or better (on a 4.0 scale) in the last 60 semester units or 90 quarter units of course work (Professional Development and Certificate Program course work cannot be included in this calculation)
English Language Proficiency: Taken an English proficiency exam if the applicant graduated from a postsecondary institution in a country where English is not the principal language. Accepted exams include the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) with a preferred score of 90, the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) with a preferred score of 7.5, and the Pearson Test of English (PTE) with a preferred score of 75.
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.