A Master of Accounting (MAcc) program at St. Ambrose University will deepen your understanding of accounting principles, analytical skills, and career prospects. Gain advanced knowledge and expertise in accounting theory, practice, and regulations. Prepare for the CPA exam and leadership roles in accounting and finance. Join us to excel in dynamic financial environments and make meaningful contributions to organizations.
What is a Master of Accounting degree?
100% of MAcc graduates are working in the field.
Why earn a Master of Accounting?
Our Master of Accounting program prepares students to lead in an ever-changing business environment. Prepare for the CPA exam as you explore advanced accounting and business topics, and gain hands-on experience through internships with local employers.
Experiential learning
You have the opportunity to participate in a service learning class or complete an internship with a local employer.
Accelerated pathway
Earn your Master of Accounting in as little as 12 months with our accelerated pathway.
Industry-aligned curriculum
We work with leaders in the public and private accounting sectors to ensure our courses equip you with the hard and soft skills employers seek.
State-of-the-art facilities
Your courses take place in McMullen Hall. The building has collaborative classroom spaces that mimic real world workplaces.
Supportive environment
SAU creates a supportive and collaborative learning environment, fostering creativity, innovation, and a sense of community.
What you’ll learn in your Master of Accounting program
In our Master of Accounting program, you’ll study financial accounting theories, analyze advanced accounting issues, and learn the technology and communication skills needed to prepare final statements.
- In-depth understanding of consolidations, SEC reporting requirements, and governmental/non-profit accounting
- Enhanced spreadsheet proficiency
- Mastery of advanced tools for financial statement analysis and valuation
- Practical experience preparing tax returns.
Explore Master of Accounting courses
This degree will require you to complete a total of 30 credits.
Sample courses
| Class code | Class title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ACCT 601 | Advanced Financial Accounting Theory and Emerging Issues | 3 credits |
| ACCT 604 | VITA Seminar | 3 credits |
| ACCT 610 | Advanced Financial Accounting Topics | 3 credits |
| ACCT 614 | Financial Statement Analysis and Valuation | 3 credits |
| ACCT 660 | Accounting Internship | 3 credits |
How much does a Master of Accounting cost?
The cost of your MAcc degree will depend on several factors, including your specific scholarships, finances, and the number of credits you take per semester. New students also pay a $10 matriculation fee. You will also need to budget for books, supplies, materials, transportation, personal costs, loan fees, and other expenses. Explore total cost of attendance.
Graduates from St. Ambrose's BBA in Accounting program who start MAcc courses within one year of graduation may qualify for a tuition discount of up to 30 percent on MAcc courses, up to 33 credit hours or 12 months of enrollment, whichever comes first.
12-month accelerated program
| Expense | Per Semester (Fall or Spring) | Total Program Cost** |
|---|---|---|
| Total tuition ($1,107/credit hour)* | $16,605 | $33,210 |
| Technology fee | $140 | $280 |
| Total direct charges (billable) | $16,745 | $33,490 |
*Based on 2025-2026 tuition and fees. Tuition and fees are subject to change each summer.
**Estimate based on fall start date. Total includes one fall semester and one spring semester.
Part-time program (24 months)
| Expense | Per Semester (Fall or Spring) | Total Program Cost** |
|---|---|---|
| Total tuition ($1,107/credit hour)* | $7,749 - $8,856 | $33,210 |
| Technology fee | $70 | $280 |
| Total direct charges (billable) | $7,819 - $8,926 | $33,490 |
*Based on 2025-2026 tuition and fees. Tuition and fees are subject to change each summer.
**Estimate based on fall start date. Total includes two fall semesters and two spring semesters.
St. Ambrose University’s Master of Accounting program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) recognizes institutions committed to continuous improvement that ensures their business program will give students the skills employers want. St. Ambrose University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
How does SAU support MAcc students?
St. Ambrose University’s Master of Accounting faculty have more than 30 years of combined teaching experience. With a particular focus on experiential learning, our faculty are passionate about providing tangible opportunities that not only help their students but benefit the local community as well. Our faculty are actively involved in advising and mentoring you so you’ll be ready to advance your accounting career.
Master of Accounting program faculty
Other support resources
Accessibility Resource Center
Whether you need classroom accommodations, alternative exam arrangements, or disability support strategies, our Accessibility Resource Center is here to help.
Career Services
Our Academic and Career Planning Center is ready to help you polish your resume and land the job or internship that will launch your career.
Are there cost savings available for Master of Accounting?
At St. Ambrose University, we believe that education should be accessible to all. That's why we offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help make college more affordable for our students. We are committed to providing our students with the resources they need to succeed academically and financially.
Master of Accounting scholarships
The Drexler Accounting Scholarship and Van de Voorde Accounting Scholarship are offered to outstanding MAcc students. Learn more about Master of Accounting scholarships.
Graduate assistantships
Graduate assistantships can reduce your total tuition cost or provide income as you pursue your degree. Check our employment page for open positions.
Employer tuition assistance
Many employers offer tuition assistance. Check with your human resources office to determine if these benefits are available. Learn more about employer tuition assistance.
Military benefits
Veterans, service members, and their children and spouses may be eligible for education benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Learn about military benefits.
What’s on campus for Master of Accounting students?
Take advantage of on-campus networking opportunities. We host career fairs and have accounting professionals, including SAU alumni, on-campus scouting talent throughout the year.
Develop your professional profile with help from accounting faculty and the Academic and Career Planning Office. We’ll help you build your resume, guide you through mock interviews, and develop your professional presence on social media.
What are the admission requirements for the MAcc program?
Start your Master of Accounting career at St. Ambrose. Here are the admission requirements for our MAcc:
- Complete an application for graduate admission at St. Ambrose University
- Submit official grade transcripts from all colleges and universities you have attended
- Provide a professional resume and prompted writing sample
- GMAT scores are not required for admission
- No interview is required
Prerequisites for the MAcc program
Here are the prerequisites for students entering St. Ambrose University's Master of Accounting program:
- Financial Accounting (3 credits)
- Managerial Accounting (3 credits)
- Intermediate Accounting I (3 credits)
- Intermediate Accounting II (3 credits)
- Income Tax Procedures (3 credits)
- Auditing (3 credits)
- 6 credits hours of economics
- 9 credit hours of business, including 3 in business law, 3 in business statistics, and 3 in finance
- 3 credit hours of college mathematics, which can be met by taking Quantitative Reasoning in Business, college algebra or higher, or a math course approved by the MAcc program director.
The equivalent of an undergraduate degree in accounting from an accredited 4-year college typically meets the prerequisites for the MAcc program. Students with degrees in other areas must take the above prerequisites to be admitted to the program.
International student requirements
- Submit official international transcripts
- Proof of English language proficiency (minimum scores: Varies by program; typically TOEFL - 80 IELTS - 6.5)
- Copy of your passport and other documentation
What can I do with a Master of Accounting degree?
Your education and degree can help you reach your professional goals. St. Ambrose University can never promise a career or particular outcome upon graduating. We encourage you to explore potential jobs and employment settings. Here is a list of potential job titles, traits, and settings a graduate in our Master of Accounting program could achieve.
Potential job titles
- Certified public accountant
- Auditor manager
- Tax analyst
- Corporate accountant
- Compliance officer
- Financial controller
Potential employment settings
- Accounting firms
- Government agencies
- Educational institutions
- Financial consultancies
- Corporations
- Healthcare institutions
Traits of an accountant
- Detail-oriented
- Analytical
- Ethical
- Strategic
- Communicative
- Problem solving
Industry facts
- The median annual wage for financial managers was $139,790 in May 2022.
- Employment of financial managers is projected to grow 16 percent by 2032.
For more information on Master of Accounting employment and wages, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistic’s Occupational Outlook Handbook.
News and events at SAU
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Spring Commencement Ceremony
Join us for our Spring Commencement Ceremony to celebrate Spring 2025 degree recipients.
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As SAU and MMU Work to Combine, High School Sweethearts Katie and Bob Gaffney Now Share a College Connection
High school brought together Katie and Bob Gaffney, and now their chosen universities have created a new mutual connection.
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From baseball to accounting firms: Adam’s grad story
For Adam Like, MAcc ‘24, his path to St. Ambrose University began in an unexpected place: the baseball field.
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Become who you are meant to be
With more than 65 undergraduate and graduate programs, there’s something for everyone at St. Ambrose University! Explore our programs to find your place at SAU.
