Master of Accounting in University Park United States | Pennsylvania State University

Pennsylvania State University | University Park United States
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Qualification
Masters Degree
Languages
English
Delivery Mode
On-Campus
Tuition (2025)
USD 43,266
Attendance
Full-time
Full-time Duration
12 months

To obtain a certified public accountant (CPA) license in Pennsylvania and most other states, candidates need to complete 150 credit hours of education. Penn State's Smeal College of Business provides two pathways to fulfill this requirement: the Integrated MAcc Program for current Smeal accounting students or the One-Year Master of Accounting for graduates with bachelor's degrees from Penn State or other institutions.

Earning a CPA credential creates career possibilities not just in accounting firms but throughout the business world. A master's in accounting equips students for roles in public accounting, corporate finance, financial analysis, and regulatory agencies. Pairing graduate accounting studies with CPA certification and various undergraduate specializations paves the way for careers in consulting and advisory services.

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES
Cultivate Data Proficiency - The MAA curriculum fosters data literacy, enabling students to collaborate effectively with data professionals while maintaining an accounting perspective. Coursework covers unstructured data, data retrieval, modeling techniques, visualizations, and database systems.
Enhance Analytical Capabilities - The program equips students with modern analytical techniques to generate comprehensive accounting insights for business decision-making, including descriptive, diagnostic, predictive, and prescriptive analysis.
Master Relevant Technologies - Students gain hands-on experience with accounting technologies through practical applications in auditing, taxation, and financial analysis using tools like Excel, SAS, Python, Tableau, and Microsoft Power BI.
Engage with Emerging Trends - The curriculum addresses cutting-edge subjects including financial technology, digital currencies, data extraction methods, and blockchain applications.


Destination of Study

Subjects of Study

Language Requirements

English
IELTS 6.5

Qualification Requirements

The Penn State Smeal Master of Accounting program has specific prerequisite courses and is made up of two main application parts. During this process, you will be required to submit the following:

Part 1: Penn State Graduate School Online Application
Resume
Copies of official educational transcripts (and copy of degree certificate if applicable)
Program-specific questions: Ensure that you respond to all questions requesting information, especially when it is marked as required.
Reference contacts (3): Provide the names, titles, relationships, and contact information for three professional or academic references. A letter of recommendation will not be requested or required. In the event we need more information, we will reach out to your references.
Official English language proficiency exam scores (for international applicants)
Part 2: Virtual Interview and Essay via Kira Talent
Within 24 hours of starting your Graduate School Online Application, you will receive a link to complete your virtual interview and essay. Please check your spam folder or inbox filters for the invitation. The virtual interview consists of answering three behavioral questions in a recorded video format within a timed session. The essay portion requires a written response to an admissions essay question within a timed session. Your interview and essay should be completed within seven days of submitting your Graduate School Online Application
The Penn State Smeal MAcc program will accept the IELTS as a test of English proficiency.
Minimum required score: 6.5. Minimum required scores:

Internet-Based: 80
Speaking Section: 19
Paper-Based (taken prior to July 2017): 550
Paper-Based (taken July 2017 or later): a combined total of the 3 sections evaluated must be 60 or greater

Tuition USD 43,266

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