Master's Degree in Accounting

M.S. in Accounting

The online Master of Science in Accounting program at Colorado Christian University is designed for students who want to obtain additional accounting training and hours beyond their undergraduate accounting degrees. The program is designed to equip future accounting leaders with a Christian worldview, leadership skills, and a technical accounting base that includes: accounting ethics, accounting research, advanced auditing (accounting information systems within a forensic framework), and advanced tax accounting.

This program is reserved for students who have an undergraduate degree in accounting. Students without an undergraduate degree in accounting but with significant upper-level coursework in accounting (i.e. Intermediate Accounting, Tax Accounting, Auditing, and Cost Accounting) along with accounting experience may apply on an exception basis.

Program Focus

Accounting ethics, accounting research, advance auditing and advanced tax accounting.

Offered through the CCU Online, the program equips future accountants to apply their expertise and fiduciary responsibilities with a Christian worldview and ethical leadership.

- Program format: 100% online
- 30 total credit hours
- Prerequisite(s) or applicable transfer credit required
- Designed for busy adult learners; complete in as little as 15 months of consecutive coursework, even with a full-time job
- Courses are taken one at a time and are typically completed in five-week and seven-week blocks.
- Small class sizes encourage individualized learning and networking.
- Students have direct access to professors who are professionals in the field.
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
- Program Brochure
- Bachelor's Degrees: Accountancy, B.S.
- Master's Degrees: MBA — Emphasis in Advanced Accounting
- Certificates: Accounting Certificate
- Minors: Accountancy Minor

Course Catalog

Tuition and Fees

What Can You Do With a Master’s in Accounting Degree?

Graduates from the Master of Science in Accounting program at CCU can pursue a wide range of career opportunities, including (but not limited to)

Auditor
CPA Partner
Chief Internal Auditor
Chief Accounting Officer
Chief Financial Officer

Accounting Program FAQs

For additional questions, please contact an enrollment counselor.

Do you need a B.A. in Accounting to pursue a Master's in Accounting?

Applicants to CCU's online M.S. in Accounting program must have an undergraduate degree in accounting or 30 approved credit hours in upper-level (300-400) accounting and 6 credit hours in principal-level (200) accounting. Applicants are also required to have an undergraduate finance OR equivalent finance course. Click here to learn more about the prerequisites for this program.

Is a Master’s in Accounting like a Masters in Business Administration (MBA)?

A Master's in Accounting (MSA) differs distinctly from a Master of Business Administration (MBA). While both are graduate-level business degrees, a Master's in Accounting provides specialized expertise in accounting principles, auditing, taxation, and financial reporting. An MBA, in contrast, offers broad business knowledge across multiple disciplines, including marketing, management, finance, and operations. The Master’s in Accounting program typically prepares students specifically for a career in accounting, while an MBA develops general business management and leadership skills.

Is a Master’s in Accounting equal to a CPA?

A Master's in Accounting and a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) certification are different credentials serving different purposes. The master's degree is an academic qualification that provides advanced accounting knowledge, while the CPA is a professional license required to practice certain accounting services. Many students pursue both credentials to maximize their career opportunities. If you are interested in pursuing CPA licensure, you will need to contact your state licensing board to determine if our degree program meets their educational requirements for licensure.

What percentage of accountants have a master's degree?

According to recent industry data, approximately 30-35% of accountants hold a master's degree. This percentage has steadily increased as employers place greater value on advanced education, and CPA requirements have become more stringent. The proportion is higher among public accounting firm partners and senior financial executives, where master's degrees are often considered a distinguishing credential.

Does a Master's in Accounting increase salary?

A Master's in Accounting typically leads to higher earning potential. Accountants with master's degrees earn an average of 5-15% more than their counterparts with only bachelor's degrees. The salary premium becomes more pronounced with career advancement, particularly when combined with CPA certification. Public accounting firms often offer higher starting salaries to candidates with master's degrees, and the credentials can accelerate promotion opportunities to senior positions.

How many credit hours are required for the M.S. in Accounting program?

The program is 30 credit hours and generally takes approximately two years. See the M.S. in Accounting Curriculum page for additional information and the M.S. in Accounting Admissions page for more helpful information.

How does the online format work for the course curriculum?

The master's in Accounting classes blend the latest eLearning technology with the latest educational theory and practice. Students attend classes online, do research using the Internet, exchange emails, and participate in online discussions. Even assignments and tests are submitted online. Weekly assignments are required, but the course design generally allows participants to complete coursework at the times and places that work best for them before scheduled deadlines.