Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Program Is It?

Walden University's Master of Science in Accounting degree program is designed to provide you with a basic understanding of the management aspects of accounting. The program offers three specializations: Accounting With CPA Emphasis,* Accounting for the Professional, and the Self-Designed specialization. Topics addressed in the program coursework for all specializations include communication strategies, financial management techniques, management accounting, risk management, and current issues in accounting. The program is estimated to last 20 months, but may vary by student, depending on individual program and credits transferred, if applicable.

What Are the Prerequisites?

The program is generally designed for those working as accountants or pursuing their CPA licensure.* You should have an educational and professional background in accounting, finance, or a related subject, and have a bachelor's degree.

What Are the Course Requirements?

The M.S. in Accounting program at Walden University requires the completion of 30 total semester credit hours. The core curriculum consists of 15 credits, and an additional 15 credits are taken in specialization courses. The entire program takes approximately 20 months to complete. Time to completion may vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable.

Course Requirements for All Specializations

• Effective Communication for the Accountant
• Legal and Ethical Issues in Accounting
• Financial Management Tools for Decision-Making
• Managerial Accounting for Organizational Performance
• Current Trends in Accounting Standards
• Students in the Accounting With CPA Emphasis specialization also must complete the following courses:
  • Managing Operational and Financial Business Risks
  • Managing Regulatory Compliance
  • Accounting Theory and Application
  • Tax Analysis and Decision-Making
  • Solving CPA Problems
• Students in the Accounting for the Professional specialization also must complete the following courses:
  • Managing Operational and Financial Business Risks
  • Managing Regulatory Compliance
  • Accounting Theory and Application
  • Forensic and Advanced Auditing Topics
  • International Perspectives in Accounting
• Students in the Self-designed specialization choose five courses from the previous two lists, with these additional options:
  • Not-for-Profit and Government Accounting
  • Critical Thinking for Effective Management
  • Leadership in a Global Landscape
  • Creating Sustainable Solutions Through Systems Thinking
  • Principles of Project Management
  • Leading Strategic Initiatives for Growth and New Value
  • Initiating and Managing Change
  • Global Information Systems Development

What Could I Do After I Graduate?

Career Opportunities

Graduates of Walden University's M.S. in Accounting program could apply their skills in management jobs in corporate finance or tax departments in a wide range of settings. Graduates of the Accounting With CPA Emphasis specialization who are not currently licensed could also meet the educational requirements to sit for the CPA licensing examination.* Positions you could pursue with an M.S. in Accounting include:

• Chief cost accountant
• Managerial accountant
• Internal auditor
• Compliance auditor