Master of Science in Accounting
Discover
Our competency-based Master of Science (MS) in Accounting program is designed to prepare you to support organizational goals by applying practical accounting knowledge and technology like accounting information systems. You’ll explore how to evaluate financial and accounting objectives and data to inform leadership’s decision-making and optimize business performance. You’ll also touch on accounting for government and non-profit organizations.
In addition, our MS in Accounting coursework can help you to grow your skills in critical thinking, problem analysis, communication, and compliance with accounting ethics and obligations.
Develop Knowledge and Skills in:
- Financial reporting
- Financial statement analysis
- Taxation
- Business law
- Auditing and forensic accounting
- Managerial Accounting
Available Locations
Self-Paced
1:1 Mentoring
A Unique Subscription-Based Approach to Higher Learning
Use Your Expertise
Work towards “Mastery”
Concentrations in this Program
Ready For Your Next Step
You May Enjoy This Line of Study If You…
-
Like analyzing complex data and detailed reports -
Take pride in understanding and solving financial problems -
Have exceptional attention to detail -
Want to help inform strategic business decisions -
Have strong communication and collaboration skills
Mission
The mission of the Master of Science in Accounting program is to provide a high-quality graduate, online education for students who desire a professional accounting career. The program’s curriculum emphasizes development of accounting knowledge and skills in areas such as financial reporting, taxation, business law, auditing, financial statement analysis, accounting information systems, managerial accounting, governmental and nonprofit accounting, and forensic accounting. In addition to building industry knowledge, the coursework enhances development of critical thinking capabilities, problem and scenario analysis, communication skills, and approaches to compliance with professional responsibility obligations and ethics specific to the field of accounting.
Overview
The Master of Science (MS) in Accounting graduate program is designed for those qualified individuals who wish to further their academic credentials in the field of accounting. The program requires successful completion of 12 courses (48 quarter credit hours) and must be completed within a maximum timeframe of 36 months. The courses for this program are conducted in an online delivery format through a competency-based education (CBE) approach. The faculty model utilized is designed for a 1:1 faculty/student relationship that promotes and involves substantive faculty/student interaction. The faculty engage students through a variety of multimedia presentations, conversations, and qualitative and quantitative feedback. Each course will require successful completion of assignments that must be completed at the Mastery level before a successful completion of the course is earned.
Graduates completing the program will accomplish the following outcomes:
- Integrate practical accounting knowledge to functional areas of business.
- Integrate current technology in support of business operations.
- Demonstrate highly developed communication skills.
- Evaluate financial and accounting objectives that enhance organizational effectiveness and operational performance.
- Evaluate complex accounting data, financial data, and information for decision making.
- Demonstrate collaboration for effective leadership and decision making.
Admission Requirements
To be considered for admission to the Master of Science in Accounting program, the prospective student must meet individually, either in person or via electronic method, with an admissions representative to discuss the program and all requirements. Applicants must provide a completed South College application for admission and application to the program. Those selected for admission will provide the following:
Program Admission Requirements
- Evidence of completion of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution of higher education in business or a closely related discipline approved by the faculty.
- Evidence of a cumulative 3.0 undergraduate grade point average.
- Completion of South College/Peregrine Pre-Program Assessment Exam (Accounting focused Assessment).
- Evidence of successful completion of the following six accounting courses (3 semester credit hour courses or equivalent) with a grade of B- or better in each course:
- Financial Accounting
- Intermediate Accounting I
- Intermediate Accounting II or Advanced Accounting
- Managerial/Cost Accounting
- Auditing
- Federal Income Tax
All admitted students are required to complete the South College orientation process, which includes online modules before beginning classes. The online modules include a video introduction to the program, a review of students’ roles and responsibilities in an online instructional environment, important information about accessing South College email and Student Portal accounts, and a discussion and review of South College learning resources and student services.
Accreditation
ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE IN ACCOUNTING, ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION, BACHELOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION, BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN HEALTHCARE ADMINISTRATION, BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ACCOUNTING, MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION, MASTER OF HEALTHCARE ADMINISTRATION, MASTER OF SCIENCE IN ACCOUNTING, DOCTOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
The School of Business and Technology at South College has received specialized accreditation for its business programs through the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) located at 11960 Quivira Road, Suite 3000 Overland Park, Kansas, 66213, USA. For a list of accredited programs, visit https://iacbe.org/memberpdf/SouthCollege.pdf. The current grant of accreditation is through 2026.
Public Disclosure of Student Achievement
Got A Question? South College Frequently Asked Questions
What is the tuition for South College?
Tuition and fees for South College students vary by program, and tuition rates are tiered based on the number of credits taken each quarter. For example, in our undergraduate programs, students taking 10-20 credits per quarter are charged one quarterly tuition rate based on their program, while students in the same program taking 1-5 or 6-9 credits are charged different tuition rates. Our tuition rates are designed such that South College students who take a high number of credits per quarter may be able to complete their program at a lower total cost than students who take fewer credits per quarter. Contact our admissions team who can help you prepare the budget for the field of study you want to pursue. And don’t forget we also offer numerous grants, scholarships, and financial aid packages to those that qualify.
Does South College offer Financial Aid?
Yes! Financial aid for South College is available to those who qualify. Students at South College have access to a range of financial aid to provide the economic assistance they need to pay for college. Aid is available in the form of scholarships, grants and awards, work-study programs, and loans. We’re happy to participate in numerous federal, state, and private student aid programs, and to offer funding directly. In addition to federal and state financial aid, South College institutional grants can reduce out-of-pocket expenses for qualified military-affiliated students, first responders, and recent high school graduates. Visit our financial page or contact our admissions team. We want you to succeed! Let us help you give your dream direction and address your financial aid questions.
Is South College Accredited?
Yes! South College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award degrees at the doctorate, educational specialist, master’s, baccalaureate, and associate levels, as well as certificates. With over 150 programs and concentrations and campuses in multiple states, the state authorizations have been obtained. Visit the link to see the full listing. It is the student’s responsibility to contact the appropriate licensing board to confirm whether a South College program will meet the requirements for professional licensure in that state. South College will assist with this information for fully online programs. For onground/hybrid programs, the institution ensures that the program meets requirements for the state in which the campus is located.
How do I apply to South College?
Visit South College and see for yourself what the college has to offer. Campus tours include a personal admissions consultation, campus facility tour and more! When you are ready to start your journey at South College, submit an online application or speak with an admissions representative. Once your application is received, we will begin building your personalized plan to pursue the chosen degree or certificate program based on your interest. We want you to have the best possible educational experience. To learn more about the educational opportunities available for your future, Apply today!
Do you Offer Housing?
South College offers a wide range of degree and certificate programs in areas such as business, healthcare, legal studies, education, criminal justice, and technology. At this time, we do not currently offer housing options. Our expansive online study and hybrid options allow our students to learn wherever they are located, and often with the flexibility of their own convenient time. With academic advisors that support the students throughout their tenure at South College, along with tutors, study groups, and a student success team, students at South College have resources at their fingertips to assist them in their educational pursuits and may be able to guide towards housing areas close to the campus of their choice. The individual attention and support provided by our faculty and staff helps to set us apart. Students interested in a more personalized learning experience are often attracted to South College over other larger universities and colleges in our campus locations. Request more information about South College today!
Looking for South College Consumer Information?
South College was founded in 1882 and focused on serving students who want a hands-on, relevant education that can have a meaningful impact on their lives. South College strives to provide quality instruction, resources, and support services based on systematic and ongoing assessment and evaluation of objectives/outcomes to ensure the development of student abilities necessary for the achievement of positive student outcomes and the mission/vision of the college. The institution establishes policies and procedures to maintain compliance with applicable federal, state, and accrediting requirements. Click below to learn all about South College’s history, and who we are as an institution today.
Does South College accept Transfer Students?
Yes! Credit for transfer work may be given if it was taken at an accredited collegiate institution, if it is equivalent to courses offered at South College, and if it carries a grade of C or better. Any coursework taken over seven years ago may be denied transfer credit if the material is outdated. Policies for the acceptance of any graduate level transfer credit are determined by the associated program faculty within guidelines determined by the institution. We want students to succeed and will do our best to help you in your journey to apply transfer credits to those who qualify. Contact admissions for assistance for your transfer individualized plan and consideration and learn about transfer specifications and time limits by course here:
What Kind of Certificate & Degrees does South College Offer?
Online vs On-Campus – What Is Best?
Since its founding 141 years ago, South College‘s mission has been to serve students who want a hands-on, professional focused education. Today this means offering traditional classroom experiences along with accelerated, hybrid, and online learning options. It means small class sizes, modern labs, and campuses that are convenient to large numbers of students. Most of all, it means experienced instructors who provide real world experiences in their classes and lead in-depth discussions on the concepts taught. South College also offers non-traditional distance-learning programs, allowing students to earn a college degree online providing more flexibility with the same level of quality education and experience from all academic programs offered. This option is great for potential students who are working a full-time job or are not in travel distance to one of the learning sites. Online vs. campus? You decide. Get the student experience you desire in the program that fits your style best on your road to success!
Does South College Have Programs for Active or Retired Military?
As an institution of higher education, South College recognizes its responsibility to society and supports both institutional and individual commitments to service. South College encourages its administration, faculty, and staff to invest their knowledge, experience, and expertise in community, professional, and institutional service. South College’s core values of excellence, responsibility, and integrity serve as the foundation for assessing the quality of institutional, school/departmental, and individual performance in achieving this mission. South College is grateful for the service and sacrifice of our military and their families. We are happy to provide the South College Military Grant to support our military – past and present – in the pursuit of their education and skill development. The South College Application Fee is waived for all active-duty military members, veterans, their spouses, and their dependent children who receive this Grant.