Accounting (MACT)
The Master of Accounting at St. Edward’s prepares you for success in a field that spans all segments of the economy. Upon graduation, you’ll be qualified to take the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam, opening the door to positions in public, corporate, government and nonprofit accounting and in financial services.
You’ll study topics such as accounting for mergers and acquisitions, foreign currency translation, advanced tax, accounting ethics, internal auditing and business law — and hone leadership, analytical and research skills needed to advance your career. During the last term of enrollment, you’ll complete an Accounting Theory and Practice course.
Master of Accounting
Overview:
In the Master of Accounting program, you’ll learn to analyze accounting information, prepare financial reports for complex transactions, research issues for clients and communicate results in a professional manner. Graduates are prepared to contribute to a company’s strategic planning by analyzing financial data, applying tax laws and providing recommendations for investments and financial opportunities.
Career paths for graduates are broad and include becoming an auditor or tax specialist in a public accounting firm; a management accountant for a bank or an international corporation; a tax specialist for a foundation or endowment; a forensic accountant; an internal auditor; and the founder of your own accounting business.
Course Preview:
Master of Accounting students take courses from these groups:
FOUNDATION COURSES
Students entering with non-business undergraduate degrees take foundation courses that include Accounting Principles and Concepts, Organizational and Operations Management, and Economic Principles and Concepts.
ACCOUNTING CORE COURSES
Students complete core courses, including Advanced Accounting Problems, Advanced Taxation, Internal Audit, Business Law for Accountants, Managerial Communications, and Accounting Theory and Practice.
ADVANCED AND ELECTIVE COURSES
Students select advanced and elective courses, such as Fraud and Forensic Accounting or Advanced Accounting Systems. Students also select an MBA elective.
ACCOUNTING THEORY AND PRACTICE
Accounting Theory and Practice, the culminating course of the Master of Accounting program, provides an opportunity for students to synthesize their knowledge as they prepare to sit for the CPA exam. In this class, you will study accounting theory and the conceptual framework for accounting principles and procedures, then explore the practical application of what you have learned.
View the Degree Plan (PDF) for sample course information for the Master of Accounting.
Internships
Master of Accounting students may earn credit for an internship. Internship experiences are an outstanding addition to your résumé and provide opportunities to practice what you have learned in your coursework.
Some of our students have pursued internships with organizations such as these:
- Brown, Graham and Company
- Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA)
- Maxwell, Locke and Ritter
- Temple Inland