Statistics
100%
of M.S.A. graduates felt their education and experiences as a student at WMU prepared them for their profession
$70K-$80K
median starting salary for M.S.A. graduates working full time
100%
of M.S.A. graduates are working or continuing their education quickly after earning their degree
Earn your Master of Science in Accountancy
The WMU M.S.A. program is designed to match your determination with our internationally recognized, AACSB-accredited program. You'll fine-tune your technical expertise, communication skills and understanding of the important role that accountants play in all organizations in this accelerated program that can be completed within one year.
With faculty guiding you through advanced courses in accounting, going the extra mile with your education has never been so rewarding. And, if you’re looking to get ready for the CPA exam, this is the place for you. Our courses align closely with exam content and the WMU M.S.A. gives you the additional credits you need to reach the 150 credit hours required to sit for the CPA exam. No matter your path as an accountant, you’ll be prepared and operating at your full potential.
What will you learn in the M.S.A. program?
- In-demand skills employers are looking for, including advanced study of audit, tax, financial reporting, international accounting and fraud plus coursework focused on the typical challenges of being a chief financial officer.
- A thorough grounding in the concepts and technology that accountants regularly use paired with critical thinking frameworks for sound managerial decision making.
- Immersive experiences working on teams and leading project teams in your courses.
- A diverse knowledge base that will help you stand out, including global business, sustainability and AI.
Student quote
Having both a master’s degree and the CPA completed opens so many doors and allows me to choose the best path for me personally.
Complete the CPA exam before graduation
As an M.S.A. student, you’ll have the opportunity to complete and pass sections of the CPA exam before graduation, with many students achieving that goal. Courses in the Master of Science in Accountancy program have been designed to closely match the CPA Evolution model to ensure WMU graduates hit the ground running with progress toward this valuable certification. Earning your CPA license early gives you a head start on your career.
M.S.A. program prerequisite requirements
M.S.A. candidates must have completed an undergraduate business degree in accounting or its equivalent and have a 3.0 grade point average in accounting and business courses.
Steps to apply
To apply to WMU’s Master of Science in Accountancy program, start your application, which will include:
- A resume or curriculum vitae
- GMAT score unless this has been waived (You may receive a waiver with three years of professional experience)
- Official transcript from the institution where you received your undergraduate degree, as well as a transcript from the institution(s) where any additional graduate level courses or degrees have been taken or completed
- Evidence of English language proficiency for international students
Find out what’s next with a Master of Science in Accountancy degree
The M.S.A. puts you on the fast track no matter what area of accounting you want to pursue. Whether your goal is to become a partner at a Big Four firm or a chief financial officer at a Fortune 500 company, this degree is where your path starts. Employers seek out WMU Haworth graduates because of their technical skill, work ethic and ability to thrive on teams and in client communication. And, WMU Haworth boasts $70K-$80K median starting salary for M.S.A. graduates working full time.
Staff Accountant
Recent graduates of the M.S.A. program hold roles as staff accountants specializing in audit, tax, or areas such as recording financial transactions, posting journal entries, and organizing expenses and revenues according to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.
Auditor
WMU alumni hold key roles as internal, external, government and forensic auditors and help accounting firms, companies and agencies verify their numbers, test internal controls and ensure compliance, upholding standards and the law in order to manage risk.
Analyst
New accountants often play the vital role of analyst, which may involve data evaluation, developing company budgets or financial forecasts, or ensuring that financial actions match company policies and government regulations to maintain ultimate compliance for audits.
See where students and alumni are making an impact
Earning a CPA license before graduation: A valuable asset
Instead of leaving exam preparation until after graduation, accountancy faculty wanted master's students to engage with the advanced concepts for the CPA exam while they still had faculty support and a built-in structure. The result? Greater confidence and higher exam pass rates.
Orion Rahjes is finding belonging and building legacy at WMU Haworth
Accountancy student Orion Rahjes is leaving their mark at Western Michigan University. The senior from Des Moines, Iowa, is creating a bright future at the Haworth College of Business through academic achievements and on-campus involvements.
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Frequently asked questions about the M.S.A. degree
Questions? Get in touch!
Questions? Get in touch!
WMU Haworth is here to help you get answers to questions, find resources and become the best professional you can be.
