Program Information
The Master of Science in Accounting and Taxation (MSAT) program is designed for students who seek to develop or advance a career in professional accounting or taxation in industry, public accounting, government, or not-for-profit organizations. The program of study meets the needs of students with undergraduate degrees in accounting who wish a fifth year of study, as well as those students with non-accounting or non-business undergraduate degrees.
Graduates of the program are qualified to take the CPA and CMA examinations. The program meets the 150-hour requirement for the CPA examination in the state of Connecticut and the general requirements established by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Students wishing to take the examination in other jurisdictions should contact the jurisdiction to inquire as to specific requirements.
Course work focuses on two tracks: Financial and Assurance Services, and Taxation. The application of analytical tools for planning, controlling, and decision-making purposes are contained in both tracks.
Degree requirements normally constitute 30 credit hours of specified courses, including three core courses, four track courses, and three elective courses selected from any discipline with the Barney School. The specific required and elective courses are outlined below.
Admission is based on the candidate’s undergraduate grade point average, GMAT, a personal statement and resumé. GMAT waivers are available for applicants who meet any one of the following criteria:
- Passed the CPA, CMA, EA, or state Bar Exam
- Hold a master’s degree or higher in any discipline from an appropriately accredited institution
- Hold an undergraduate degree achieving at least a 3.0 GPA overall and in their major
- Hold an accounting certificate from the Barney School of Business achieving at least a 3.0 GPA overall in certificate classes
Experienced-based GMAT waivers are granted to those who have completed 2+ years of financial analytical experience. The experience-based waiver request will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Applicants must produce evidence of successful completion of the following basic accounting core courses or equivalent:
- AC 320 - Financial Reporting Theory I
- AC 321 - Financial Reporting Theory II
- AC 322 - Financial Reporting Theory III
- AC 332 - Cost Management
- AC 425 - Federal Income Tax Concepts
- AC 430 - Auditing Concepts and Problems
The above accounting core courses must have been taken at a four-year, accredited college or university, that offers a bachelor’s degree in accounting. Applicants who have not met the above accounting core requirements will be expected to complete successfully, with a minimum 3.0 GPA, the requirements at the start of their program. Applicants who have passed the CPA examination will receive an automatic waiver of the above requirements.
To receive the degree, students must complete all program requirements with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 and no more than one grade below B in the courses beyond the basic accounting core courses.
Transfer of Credit
Students who have completed course work at an accredited graduate business school may transfer credit toward the degree for a total of up to six credits of courses that have been completed with a grade of B or better. Transfer credit is not included in the grade point average.
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