Which Schools Offer a Degree in Forensic Accounting?
Several colleges and universities offer bachelor's or master's degrees in forensic accounting. Keep reading to learn more about programs at Carlow University, Franklin University, St. Thomas University and the University of Charleston.
Overview of Forensic Accounting Programs
<p>A variety of programs exist for studying forensic accounting. Generally, a bachelor's degree is required to become fully prepared for a number of certifications available to accountants of all disciplines. Master's degree programs provide the option for further study and specialization.
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<h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutForensicAccounting">Important Facts About Forensic Accounting</h3>
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<table border="1"><tr><td>Online Availability</td><td>Fully online, blended format</td></tr>
<tr><td>Programs</td><td>Forensic accounting certificate program</td></tr>
<tr><td>Certificates</td><td>Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)</td></tr>
<tr><td>Possible Careers</td><td>Corporate accounting officer, internal auditor, forensic accountant, independent forensic auditor</td></tr>
<tr><td>Median Salary (2021)</td><td>$77,250 <i>(Accountants and Auditors)</i></td></tr>
<tr><td>Job Outlook (2021-2031)</td><td>6% <i>(Accountants and Auditors)</i></td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)</i>
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<h3 id="section---CarlowUniversity">Carlow University</h3>
<p>Carlow University in Pittsburgh, PA, offers a Bachelor of Science in Forensic Accounting program. Students earn an accounting minor in addition to their bachelor's degree. This program prepares students to take the Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) exam and the Certified Forensic Accountant (Cr.FA) exam. Students take classes such as the following:
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<ul><li>Auditing
</li><li>Ethics
</li><li>Fraud examination
</li><li>Fraud investigation techniques
</li><li>Accounting
</li></ul><h3 id="section---FranklinUniversity">Franklin University</h3>
<p>Franklin University also offers a Bachelor of Science in Forensic Accounting. This program is available online and at Franklin's 11 campuses throughout the Midwest. Students must complete approximately 128 credit hours, including general education courses, business courses, electives and major courses such as the following:
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<ul><li>Legal elements of fraud
</li><li>Accounting information systems
</li><li>Interviewing techniques for fraud investigations
</li><li>Accounting research and analysis
</li><li>Corporate governance and internal control assessment
</li></ul><h3 id="section---St.ThomasUniversity">St. Thomas University</h3>
<p>St. Thomas University in Miami Gardens, FL, offers a Master of Accounting with a specialization in forensic accounting. This program takes approximately 18 months to complete, and students must earn at least 30 credits to graduate. Students will take classes like the following:
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<ul><li>Advanced auditing
</li><li>Fraud Examination
</li><li>Forensic accounting application
</li><li>Forensic accounting practice issues
</li><li>Computer auditing and investigation
</li></ul><h3 id="section---UniversityOfCharleston">University of Charleston</h3>
<p>This West Virginia university offers a Master of Forensic Accounting. This hybrid program takes approximately 14 months to complete and requires only eight visits to campus; the remainder of the program is completed online. The master's program consists of five modules, including the following:
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<ul><li>Introduction to forensic accounting
</li><li>Criminology and legal framework
</li><li>Gathering and analyzing evidence
</li><li>Forensic accounting engagements
</li><li>Litigation services</li></ul>