James Madison University, College of Business

Master of Science in Accounting (MSA)

Accounting MSA

The Accounting program leads to theMaster of Science in Accounting degree. The primary purpose of the Master of Science in accounting program is to prepare business and non-business majors for entry into the public accounting profession. The program serves as the "fifth" year in preparing students for the 150 hours of postsecondary education required or scheduled to be required to become a certified public accountant in most jurisdictions.

The mission of the graduate accounting program is to provide a strong regional presence for advanced professional education that prepares students for success in the accounting profession by strengthening the students' technical expertise, enhancing their understanding of professional responsibility, and improving their business skills necessary to compete in today's complex and ever changing business environment.

James Madison University offers an on-campus program tailored for individuals who prefer a traditional full-time residential college program of study.

Admission Criteria

The Graduate Management Admissions Test OR successful completion of all four parts of the CPA exam is required for admission to the MSA program.

Prerequisites

Prerequisites are based on the background and previous training of the student. All students must be proficient with a spreadsheet program and have the following courses (or their equivalent) prior to starting MSA course work. Courses must be taken at an AACSB accredited school.

Accounting Courses

• Intermediate Accounting I
• Intermediate Accounting II
• Federal Income Tax Accounting
• Auditing
• Cost Accounting

Business Courses

• Organizational Behavior or Principles of Management
• Business Statistics
• IntroductoryFinance
• Micro or Macro Economics
• Business Law

Application Deadlines

The Graduate School has a rolling admission policy. However, to guarantee your application will be reviewed in time to meet your anticipated date of registration, you should submit your completed application by the following dates:

• Fall semester - July 1
• Spring semester - November 1
• Summer semester - April 1

International Graduate Student Admissions


JMU actively seeks international students who demonstrate strength, personal integrity and seriousness of educational purpose. We feel strongly that students learn from each other, and that each individual can make a significant educational contribution to the university community. We know that students thrive in a supportive and encouraging environment. For this reason, the university has committed a tremendous amount of resources to ensure that you succeed. We expect and challenge you to make lifelong friendships that will grow beyond the classroom experience.