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Master's in Accounting

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Add to your future with a Master’s in Accounting

Accounting professionals do more than crunch numbers — they bridge the gap between abstract numerical data and smart financial decisions. Organizations and individuals rely on accountants to track performance, manage budgets, forecast revenue, assess risk, prepare taxes, recommend financial strategies, and so much more. 

With a Master’s in Accounting from DeVry University’s Keller Graduate School of Management, you’ll dive into a curriculum designed to deepen your knowledge and skills so you can advance your career opportunities and drive growth wherever you go:

  • Use industry tech tools and emerging AI-powered analytics like Tableau Prep, Power Query, and Microsoft BI so you can learn to optimize accounting functions.

  • Prepare for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam1 with Becker’s industry-leading prep infused directly into our curriculum for select courses. We also offer classes to help you prepare for the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) exam.

  • Customize your curriculum and diversify your knowledge by taking electives that cover topics like nonprofit accounting, financial fraud prevention, international accounting, and more. 

  • Integrate your knowledge by applying what you’ve learned to a real-world accounting scenario in an immersive capstone project.

Classes start every 8 weeks

Invest in your potential. Let’s get started.

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  • 01 Curriculum
  • 02 Specializations
  • 03 Accreditation
  • 04 Ways to save
  • 05 Careers
  • 06 FAQs

What you’ll learn in our master’s degree in accounting program

Earning a master’s degree in accounting allows you to gain a sophisticated understanding of core accounting practices while providing flexible curriculum options that deepen your knowledge in vital areas of the field.

Whether you plan to pursue professional certifications1 or advance your career prospects, earning a Master’s in Accounting here at Keller will equip you for the adventure ahead.

Current industry practices

Examine the impact of modern accounting procedures by exploring topics such as ethics, reporting, and recent decisions by the Federal Accounting Standards Advisory Board (FASAB), the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). This knowledge can help you ensure compliance and fulfill ethical responsibilities in the workplace.

Accounting regulations

Use accounting standards such as Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Other Comprehensive Basis of Accounting (OCBOA), Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regulations, and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) to manage financial processes and measure outcomes.

AI in accounting

Explore how artificial intelligence and automation are shaping modern accounting practices. Learn how AI-enabled tools can support tasks like data analysis, anomaly detection, forecasting, and reporting — while reinforcing the importance of professional judgment, regulatory compliance, and ethical decision-making in financial environments.

Accounting research

Evaluate accounting information systems and advanced accounting research methods. Then apply your knowledge to real-world case studies by working with data tools like Tableau Prep, Power Query, and Microsoft BI to translate complex data with visual reports.

Auditing and taxation

Strengthen your understanding of external auditing procedures and how different entities are taxed so you can help an organization navigate federal taxation from an informed position.

International finance and accounting

Study how to manage multinational enterprise accounting procedures, the impact of global currency fluctuations, and methods for assessing risk in international transactions to help companies adapt to economic changes.

Financial fraud prevention

Sharpen your investigative skills and uncover how to spot occupational fraud, the mechanisms for preventing it, and the evidentiary procedures that aid the legal process.

Master’s in Accounting classes and credits

Classes

10-11

Credits

30

Semesters

3-52

Develop reporting, data analysis, and other advanced skills in classes like:
ACCT601
Accounting Capstone
ACCT569
Analytics and AI for Accountants
ACCT525
Current Issues in Accounting
ACCT540
Professional Research for Accountants

Learn more about the courses and details of this degree in our program guide.

 

View program guide
Your program perks

Exam-aligned curriculum: Select a specialization that’s designed to prepare you for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA)1 or Certified Management Accountant (CMA) exam, credentials that can help you stand out in the field.

Practical workplace knowledge: Build a strong foundation in accounting principles and tools to prepare for a wide range of opportunities that fit your career interests.

Accessible learning tools: Use your student portal to access virtual tutoring resources and our digital library so you can thrive in your studies — anytime, anywhere.

Confidently prepare for the CPA exam

 Our Master’s in Accounting with a CPA Exam Preparation Specialization includes industry-leading CPA exam prep courses from Becker Professional Education. For more than 60 years, Becker has prepared more than 1 million candidates for the CPA exam. Now, you can build the knowledge you need to take the CPA exam while earning credit hours that can apply toward your state licensure requirements.1   

  With our blend of expert faculty guidance and Becker-infused curriculum, you’ll be prepared to pursue your CPA certification and the next steps of your career faster. 

Becker logo

Pick your Master’s in Accounting specialization

Cultivate your skillset in the areas that matter most to you. Our Master’s in Accounting program provides several specialization options that enable you to align your knowledge with your unique goals.

General Accounting

Enhance your accounting knowledge and skills while developing a deeper understanding of important industry topics:

  • Expand your research skills with sophisticated data sourcing, analysis, visualization, and reporting methods.

  • Explore recent accounting issues and learn how they have affected current standards and federal financial entities like the SEC, FASAB, and IFRS.

  • Apply your cumulative knowledge and skills to a real-world accounting issue in your capstone project.

Request info Program guide

Certified Management Accountant (CMA) Exam Preparation

Prepare to take your Certified Management Accountant exam by building skills in key areas that improve performance and drive high-level decisions:

  • Study models for financial planning, developing budgets, forecasting, and managing performance using analytics and accounting tools that fuel profitability and financial efficiency.

  • Review methods for risk management, data analysis, investment decisions, corporate finance management, and ethical responsibilities that guide long-term business strategies.

  • Examine the managerial tools and concepts that facilitate operational cost transparency, reduce waste, and maximize value so you can help organizations spend and save where it counts.

Request info Program guide

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Exam Preparation

Prepare to pursue the Certified Public Accountant exam1 by studying core CPA practices and sharpening your accounting acumen:

  • Study auditing procedures, Generally Accepted Auditing Standards (GAAS), and attestation engagements so you can maintain legal standards and evaluate the accuracy of financial statements.

  • Prepare complex financial statements through GAAP applications to see how these principles affect government and nonprofit entities.

  • Strengthen your understanding of federal taxation procedures and methods as well as your professional legal responsibilities.

  • Choose a class in business analytics, information systems, or tax compliance to focus on topics that align with your goals.

Request info Program guide

Accreditation matters

Being accredited means we’ve met rigorous quality standards and are committed to giving you the education you deserve. Our accreditations and recognitions include:

  • Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP): Our Master of Science in Accounting is accredited by ACBSP, acbsp.org/, demonstrating it has met standards of business education that promote teaching excellence. Learn more about program outcomes and student achievement.3

  • The Higher Learning Commission (HLC): Institutionally, DeVry University is accredited by HLC, www.hlcommission.org. Our Keller Graduate School of Management is included in this accreditation.

Learn more about our
accreditations
ACBSP Accreditation Logo

Explore accounting careers

A Master’s in Accounting opens the door to a wide variety of career opportunities where your analytical and strategic abilities are an important asset. From promoting transparency as an auditor to supporting sustainable growth as a budget analyst, you’ll have the education and skills to make your mark.

Some accounting careers you may consider pursuing include: 

  • Accounting manager

  • Auditor

  • Budget analyst

  • Certified management accountant

  • Certified public accountant

  • Director of financial reporting

  • Financial analyst

Ways to save

Discover options that can help make your education more affordable.

Scholarships and grants

Save money with a variety of scholarship and grant opportunities.4

Browse scholarships

Prior learning credit

Real-world experience counts — see how you can get credit for previous work, volunteer, or training hours.

Get an assessment

Employer reimbursement

Find out if your employer offers tuition savings or reimbursement.

Find your employer

Military and veteran benefits

Learn about savings for veterans, active-duty U.S. military members, and their spouses.

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Boost your potential in accounting

Earn career capital. Contact us today.

Frequently asked questions

What is a Master’s in Accounting?

A Master’s in Accounting is a graduate-level degree you can pursue after earning an undergraduate credential, such as a Bachelor’s in Accounting. A Master’s in Accounting demonstrates you’ve gained an advanced set of accounting skills and knowledge in areas like data analysis and reporting, regulatory issues, taxation, auditing, and global economics.

Is an accounting degree worth it?

Yes, for many people, an accounting degree is worth it because it can build your knowledge as well as help you pursue senior accounting roles, CPA certification,1 or CMA certification. Nearly every industry needs accounting and finance professionals to help it be financially effective.

There’s also a growing demand in the field: While actual local growth may vary, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment of accountants and auditors to grow by 5% and employment of financial analysts to grow by 6% nationally from 2024 to 2034.

What can I do with a Master’s in Accounting?

With a graduate accounting degree, like our Master’s in Accounting here at Keller, you can explore opportunities in the public or private sector. Some accounting careers include:

• Accounting manager
• Controller
• Financial manager
• Payroll manager

For guidance, take advantage of our robust Career Resources that offer interview prep, resume writing, access to virtual job fairs, and help finding relevant job opportunities.

How many years does it take to become an accountant?

You can earn your Master’s in Accounting here at Keller:

• In as little as 12 months on an accelerated schedule2
• More quickly with qualifying transfer credits
• In 1 year and 8 months on a normal schedule2

Do you need a Master’s in Accounting to be a CPA?

You do not need a Master’s in Accounting to be a CPA, although it can help you better prepare for the certification exam while gaining additional credit hours needed to meet licensure requirements. Since the education and credit hours you need to become a CPA vary, we recommend you research your state’s CPA licensure requirements as you work toward your educational and career goals.

Is it better to have an MBA or a Master’s in Accounting?

Whether it’s better to have an MBA or a Master’s in Accounting depends on your educational background, personal career goals, and passions. A Master’s in Business Administration, also known as an MBA, typically focuses on broad management and business skills, while a Master’s in Accounting covers advanced accounting principles in more depth.

Our MBA program here at Keller incorporates managerial accounting and finance courses as part of the core curriculum, and you can also pursue an Accounting Specialization as part of the program. This is a great option if you are interested in learning to apply advanced accounting techniques while building on your business and leadership skills.

For guidance on which path is right for you, consult with an advisor here at Keller to find a program that fits your needs.

What is the best program for accounting?

The best accounting program is one that builds a strong foundation in accounting standards and ethics, integrates relevant technology, and lets you tailor your learning to your career goals. At Keller, our accounting programs combine core accounting principles with hands-on experience, exposure to industry tools, and flexible electives and specializations — so you can build practical, career-ready skills that align with where you want to go.

How do I apply to Keller? 

Applying is quick and easy:

1. Talk to an admissions representative: Fill out a brief form, and we’ll reach out to walk you through the process.
2. Submit your application: We’ll take you through the application over the phone. If you prefer, you can apply online. It only takes 5-10 minutes.
3. Enroll in your first courses: Once everything is submitted and verified, we’ll help you build your schedule.

Learn more about admissions.

1Credits and degrees earned from DeVry, including Keller, do not automatically qualify the holder to sit for professional licensing exams to practice certain professions. For example, the educational requirements for Certified Public Accountant (CPA) licensure and/or certification vary by state (and U.S. territory). The differences in the number of accounting course hours and the specific accounting course topics required may impact a student's ability to sit for the Uniform CPA exam and apply for licensure in different jurisdictions. Students interested in practicing a regulated profession must contact the appropriate state regulatory agency for licensing requirements in their field of interest and Students are responsible for contacting the state board of accountancy for the jurisdiction in which they are applying to confirm whether they have completed the appropriate credit hours and coursework to qualify to take the CPA exam. DeVry University and its Keller Graduate School of Management are not able to advise on or determine if or when any student may be eligible to sit for the CPA exam or otherwise satisfy licensing criteria in any state. Visit https://www.devry.edu/compliance/student-consumer-info.html#cpa for additional information.

2Minimum schedule is 12 months, does not include breaks, and assumes 3 semesters of year-round, full-time enrollment in 10 credit hours a semester per 12-month period. Normal schedule is 1 year and 8 months, does not include breaks, and assumes 5 semesters of year-round, full-time enrollment in 6 credit hours a semester per 12-month period.

3Conferral and Assessment data: Available for all of DeVry and Keller's ACBSP-accredited programs. For a full list of DeVry University's business and accounting degree programs accredited by ACBSP, please see the Accreditation page.

4Scholarships are available to those who apply and qualify. Click here for more information, including any requirements or restrictions. Students may participate in only one DeVry University-based scholarship, grant, or group tuition benefit program at a time. Those who qualify for more than one program will be presumed to accept the program with the highest reduction per session cost, unless the student confirms their desire to participate in a different program in writing prior to starting classes at DeVry. Scholarship and grant terms and eligibility conditions are subject to change.