How Do I Earn a Master's Degree with a Specialization in Accounting?

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If you’re interested in earning a master's degree with a specialization in accounting, consider enrolling in one of these two graduate-level accounting degree programs: a Master's in Accounting or an MBA with a Specialization in Accounting. Which program you choose ultimately depends on your goals and the knowledge and skills you wish to gain.

A master’s degree program generally takes around two years to complete, depending on whether you enroll full- or part-time. But one thing is clear: earning either of these accounting graduate programs can be a great next step toward your goals.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at how you can earn a master's degree with an accounting focus. You'll learn how long the process takes and get a sense of what subjects you'll need to take in order to earn your degree. We'll cover these topics and more in the following sections:

How Long Does It Take to Earn a Master’s Degree with a Specialization in Accounting?

Generally, a master's degree or MBA program takes around two years to complete, though they may take longer if you are not taking a full course load every session. In some cases, students pursue a master's degree part-time, which extends the overall length of the program while enabling them to maintain other commitments such as family care or a full-time job.

However, the answer can vary beyond just your choice to do full-time or part-time school. For instance, it takes about two years to earn a Master's Degree in Accounting or an MBA with a Specialization in Accounting, but that's only true if you already have a bachelor's degree in a related field. If you have not yet received a bachelor's degree (such as in business or accounting), then you are likely about six years away from earning your bachelor’s and then master's degrees.

Thankfully, there are ways to speed up how long it takes for you to complete your MBA with a Specialization in Accounting. Taking a full course load whenever possible and applying as many qualifying transfer credits as you have available toward your degree can help you complete the program in less time than average. You can earn an online MBA with a Specialization in Accounting at DeVry in as little as 2 years and 8 months, or even more quickly with qualifying transfer credits¹.

What Subjects Will I Need to Learn for an MBA in Accounting?

During your MBA with a Specialization in Accounting program, you'll have the opportunity to study several subjects that can help you gain a greater understanding of both business and accounting. Here are just a few of the subjects you can expect to cover during this program:

Accounting Standards

You will gain insight into and practice measuring outcomes using existing measurement criteria such as Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Other Common Basis of Accounting (OCBOA), Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regulations, International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) or other non-authoritative measurement tools.
Financial Reporting

Develop the ability to demonstrate an understanding of accounting theory and practices related to everything from financial reporting and managerial decision making.
Technology

By applying analytical tools and technology applications, you will learn how to develop analyses and solutions to address the needs of an organization and its stakeholders.
Collaboration

You’ll work collaboratively with your classmates in a team environment, and coordinate with them to share information while pursuing a common goal.
Problem Solving

You’ll learn how to use business and management principles to problem-solve for a variety of real-world workplace challenges.
Management Theory and Practices

Learn how to demonstrate in-depth knowledge of enterprise-wide functions relevant to the global economy.

Interested in exploring accounting graduate programs? At DeVry, we offer both a traditional Master's in Accounting and an online MBA with a Specialization in Accounting, both of which can help you develop your accounting skills. Contact us today to see how one of these graduate-level accounting programs can help you take the first step in pursuing a career in accounting.

¹Not including breaks. Assumes year-round, full-time enrollment.