masters of accounting in illinois

The economy is picking up and industry veterans are retiring. Accounting jobs look promising for qualified professionals with credentials from accredited accounting degree programs in Illinois. Graduate studies help prepare candidates for certification exams required for state licensing to provide certain services in the field. Advanced accounting degrees also attract employers who seek highly trained professionals to represent them at all levels of business. This is especially true in administrative and executive positions. There are jobs as:

  • a Certified Public Accountant
  • a consultant
  • an internal auditor
  • a program manager
  • a financial analyst

Considering one of these state-of-the-art master of accounting programs in Illinois may be a wise investment for future career success. To see more accredited accounting degree programs in Illinois, visit Master of Accounting Degree Programs in Illinois (O-Z).

Bradley University

Foster College of Business: The Graduate School, Department of Accounting

Established in 1897, Bradley University has a long-standing commitment to supporting student success through:

  • rigorous academics
  • leadership development
  • real-world learning experiences

With this in mind, the school offers more than 30 graduate programs including several through the Foster College of Business. It has been the recipient of the prestigious Leadership of Business Education Award from the AACSB International. Bradley also receives consistent recognition among schools in the Midwest for the academic excellence of its programs. This is noted by publications such as:

  • U.S. News & World Report
  • The Princeton Review
  • Forbes

MS Accounting

This program seeks to enhance proficiencies for those with undergraduate accounting degrees as they pursue advancement in the field. Studies encompass 30 credits of classes in:

  • advanced accounting
  • business
  • electives

Classes can be scheduled full- or part-time and allow students the flexibility to accommodate work schedules. Full-time students can expect to finish in a year. Candidates will complete the 150-hour requirement for specified coursework and practicum experiences necessary to seek CPA credentials. Fundamental courses cover:

  • taxes
  • accounting theory
  • auditing
  • accounting research
  • approved electives

Candidates can choose to concentrate their master’s in the area of internal auditing through their electives. Degree outcomes include working professionally for public, private and non-profit groups. These include a wide variety of business, corporate and government settings.

Accreditations

  • North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Higher Learning Commission
  • Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

Contacts
Foster College of Business
Baker Hall 123
Bradley University
1501 West Bradley Avenue
Peoria, Illinois 61625

Dr. Mollie Adams, Graduate Program Director
(309) 677-2284
mtadams@fsmail.bradley.edu
http://www.bradley.edu/academic/colleges/fcba/education/grad/msa/

DePaul University

Driehaus College of Business: Kellstadt Graduate School of Business

DePaul is the country’s largest Catholic university.  It’s the 12th-largest private non-profit school nationwide. Its mission strives to inspire graduates to engage in meaningful careers that transform themselves and their communities. DePaul holds many distinctions among its institutional peers for being a best college in the region as recognized by:

  • The Princeton Review
  • U.S. News & World Report 
  • INSIGHT into Diversity 

The school’s business programs are also well-regarded by Bloomberg Businessweek and offer options for obtaining 21st-century graduate degrees in the accounting field.

Master of Accountancy

The MACC focuses on advanced studies and practical coursework for learning high-demand skills in:

  • internal auditing
  • accounting information systems
  • forensic auditing

Candidates typically have a bachelor’s in accounting and prior work experience. The program affords the opportunity to earn a master’s in the field while acquiring the 150 hours necessary to take the CPA exam. Degree requirements encompass 45 credits combined from core courses in:

  • auditing procedures
  • data mining
  • analytics
  • forensic and investigative accounting
  • accounting information systems
  • valuation
  • approved business electives

Graduates with a MACC have gone on to work for:

  • Big Four corporations
  • major accounting firms
  • educational institutions
  • government agencies

Master of Science in Accountancy

The MSA is an option for those interested in a competitive accounting career who do not have an undergraduate degree in the major. It allows them to obtain skills, develop abilities and build competencies required in the profession. Students with this degree go on to practice across diverse industry sectors for:

  • corporations
  • banks
  • business firms
  • non-profit organizations

Coursework provides a framework for building expertise and practical knowledge including the 150 requisite hours towards CPA credentials. The program varies from 48-64 credits based on a candidate’s undergraduate degree and the need for foundational classes. MSA business studies cover:

  • economics
  • management
  • foundational accounting practices

Advanced accounting topics include:

  • financial theory and planning
  • managerial accounting
  • accounting information systems
  • auditing
  • taxes
  • ethics
  • policy formation

Accreditations

  • North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Higher Learning Commission
  • Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

Contacts
Kellstadt Graduate School of Business
DePaul University
1 East Jackson Boulevard, Suite 5300
Chicago, Illinois 60604

(312) 362-8810
kgsb@depaul.edu ​​​​
MACC: http://driehaus.depaul.edu/departments/accountancy-and-mis/graduate/Pages/Accountancy-%28MACC%29.aspx
MSA: http://driehaus.depaul.edu/departments/accountancy-and-mis/graduate/Pages/Accountancy-%28MS%29.aspx

Dominican University

Brennan School of Business

As a Catholic institution of higher learning, Dominican integrates a mission-centered approach with its academic endeavors. Students are encouraged to explore their career passions through highly-rated instructional programs. These include hands-on experiences that allow them to carry their skills back into their communities. According to U.S. News & World Report, Dominican ranks in the top 20 for best universities in its region. It’s one of three Illinois schools cited for meeting best value criteria in college education. Its business school is located just outside Chicago. It’s a popular choice for earning advanced degrees that provide graduates with professional skills for today’s global workforce.

MBA with Concentration in Accounting

This MBA with an accounting concentration offers a broader approach to accounting practices in the business domain. Depending on a student’s undergraduate background, GMAT scores and experience, program completion can vary between 36 to 54 credits. Full- or part-time scheduling is available through on-campus, online or hybrid formats. Studies focus on traditional MBA courses in:

  • management
  • finances
  • statistics
  • economics
  • business law
  • information systems
  • marketing
  • managerial accounting
  • strategic management

Courses in the concentration delve heavily into:

  • taxation
  • advanced financial accounting
  • auditing

This degree emphasizes cutting-edge skills and expertise that employers most seek from business accounting professionals. Candidates wishing to earn a CPA credential may need to address additional hours required to sit for the exam.

Master of Science in Accounting

For professionals who may not have an undergraduate accounting background but wish to earn an accountancy master, the MSA fits the bill. Program coursework spans 30-51 credits based on a candidate’s undergraduate background. It prepares the candidate to qualify for the CPA exam. Foundation courses have a strong business emphasis with classes in:

  • management
  • economics
  • finances
  • organizational behavior
  • business law

Core studies include:

  • advanced taxation
  • managerial and cost accounting
  • financial accounting
  • auditing

A choice of electives in areas of career interest fills out their curriculum. The MSA helps candidates acquire the skills and abilities sought for administrative or executive positions.

Accreditations

  • North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Higher Learning Commission
  • Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

Contacts
Dominican University
7900 West Division Street
River Forest, Illinois 60305

(708) 366-2490
gradbus@dom.edu
MBA-Accounting: http://business.dom.edu/academics/mba
MSA: http://business.dom.edu/academics/msa

Eastern Illinois University

Lumpkin College of Business and Applied Sciences: Graduate Programs

Housed on 320 acres, EIU has been offering top-notch educational programs to the community since 1898. It constantly ranks in the top third of mid-western, regional universities according to U.S. News & World Report. It offers affordable career choices in multiple areas of study including accredited accounting degree programs in Illinois. Eastern Illinois’ success is measured in part by its graduation and retention rates. These are above state and national averages. Graduates also enjoy a good reputation among employers. They’re prepared for competitive job placements and professional success in their respective career fields.

MBA with Accountancy Concentration

This MBA offers candidates with an undergraduate accounting degree an opportunity to further their careers. They do this by learning advanced accounting theory and earning the hours required to sit for the CPA exam. The program is set up with a variety of flexible formats to assist degree completion. Classes are conveniently held on the main campus or at Parkland Community College in nearby Champaign.

Candidates can enroll full- or part-time throughout the year in regular or accelerated tracks, depending on the degree plan. Candidates take 18 credit hours of advanced business classes along with 15 additional credits in the accounting concentration. Candidates can also personalize their degree by choosing to complete a traditional or creative thesis. The traditional thesis prepares students to earn a doctorate or teach in the field by engaging them in original research. For the creative thesis, students develop an advanced applied project in accounting that enhances their professional portfolio.

Accreditations

  • North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Higher Learning Commission

Contacts
MBA Program
Lumpkin School of Business and Applied Science
Eastern Illinois University
600 Lincoln Avenue
Charleston, Illinois 61920

(217) 581-3028
mba@eiu.edu
http://www.eiu.edu/mba/prospective_acc.php

Illinois State University

The Graduate School: College of Business

ISU is recognized as Illinois’ first state university. It continues to be a national leader for educational achievement that provides life-changing experiences for students, graduates and the communities they serve. The university believes in partnering with students to personalize their degree choices and further their career goals. The school ranked at number 74 in U.S. World & News Report 2015 list for top public universities based on academic excellence and program quality.

Accountancy (Master of Science)

The MS in Accountancy offers candidates more in-depth preparation for careers in the field than many undergraduate or MBA concentrations. Graduates gain the knowledge and hours to sit for the CPA exam. They can tailor coursework to suit personal career interests. Successful degree-holders find employment in cutting-edge positions across all industry, government and public accounting sectors. The program entails 30 hours of advanced studies emphasizing:

  • accounting theory
  • current research in the profession
  • management information systems

Accreditations

  • North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Higher Learning Commission
  • Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

Contacts
Accounting
State Farm Hall of Business 301
College of Business
Illinois State University
100 N University Street
Normal, Illinois 61761

(309) 438-7651
lmleini@ilstu.edu
http://illinoisstate.edu/graduate/details.php?f=accountancy_masters.xml&p=%2Fgrad_programs%2Fcob%2F

Loyola University Chicago

Quinlan School of Business: Graduate Programs

Located across four campuses in Chicago, Loyola’s educational programs reflect the vibrancy of the city. It embraces its Catholic heritage to work on behalf of others. The setting provides opportunities for networking and experiential learning that can propel graduates into professional careers. Loyola is  a consistent front-runner for academic excellence as a top public university from U.S. News & World Report.  Loyola also garners praise from the same publication for its business programs. According to the magazine’s latest rankings, the Quinlan School of Business is noted for its academic rigor. It ranks among the top 3 MBA programs in Chicago and the top 40 MBA programs nationwide.

Master of Science in Accountancy (MSA)

This master’s program promotes professional competencies and leadership skills essential for accountants to provide state-of-the-art services and advance in their careers. It’s designed for candidates with undergraduate degrees in business or accounting as well as professionals seeking to change careers or expand their career opportunities. Coursework prepares graduates to take the rigorous CPA exam. To accommodate working professionals, the 36-credit program takes place on an evening class schedule. It covers:

  • six advanced accounting courses
  • a class in business ethics
  • two non-accounting MBA electives
  • three additional business or accounting electives of choice

MBA Accounting Concentration

Candidates with any undergraduate degree from an accredited school can participate in Loyola’s MBA Accounting Concentration program. The core curriculum spans 30 to 42 credits depending on the candidate’s undergraduate background. It covers topics in:

  • advanced accounting strategies
  • ethics
  • leadership
  • international business principles

The accountancy concentration is an additional 16 credits. It’s chosen from electives suited to emphasize career objectives in taxation and financial management. Graduates with this diversified degree are well-poised to take advantage of upper-level positions in business and accounting practices.

Accreditations

  • North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Higher Learning Commission
  • Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

Contacts
Quinlan School of Business
Graduate Programs Office, Maguire Hall 205
Loyola University
1 East Pearson Street
Chicago, Illinois 60611

(312) 915-6124
quinlangrad@luc.edu
MSA: http://www.luc.edu/quinlan/mba/masters-in-accounting/index.shtml
MBA Accounting Concentration: http://www.luc.edu/quinlan/mba/mba-accounting/index.shtml

Northeastern Illinois University

College of Business and Management

Northeastern is an institution with a unique perspective on education for adult learners using non-traditional, innovative academic pathways. It embraces student diversity and uses Chicago’s economic framework to support its programs. NEIU affords students of all ages and backgrounds the opportunity to earn higher degrees. Recognition by Newsweek Magazine, U.S. News & World Report, and Issues in Higher Education respectively rank NEIU among top universities for being:

  • a best educational investment
  • one of the most ethnically diverse universities nationwide
  • a top degree producer among American schools

Master of Science in Accounting

Northeastern’s MSA offers a broad scope of study for those interested in global accounting careers. Employers seek NEIU graduates for their high pass rates on the CPA exam. They also seek their leadership skills to plan, coordinate and implement complex business and accounting activities. Candidates with non-business backgrounds may need to take some foundational courses prior to starting their MSA degree. Studies in the MSA program cover 30 hours featuring core material in:

  • auditing
  • accounting for planning and controlling
  • accounting research and methodologies
  • taxation principles

Electives help fine-tune the degree in areas of interest such as:

  • accounting information systems
  • estate and gift planning
  • government and non-profit practices
  • international accounting systems
  • management consulting
  • marketing
  • investments and more

Accreditations

  • North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Higher Learning Commission
  • Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

Contacts
College of Business and Management
Office CBM 159
Northeastern Illinois University
5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60625

Sarah Griffin, Program Coordinator
(773) 442-6113
s-griffin@neiu.edu
http://www.neiu.edu/academics/college-of-business-and-management/graduate-programs-business/master-science-accounting

Northern Illinois University

College of Business

Northern’s foundations as a school for teachers are in strong academic traditions that still impact its educational programs. The university has evolved into a dynamic, research-based institution. It appeals to a wide variety of students from at home and abroad. Rigorous academics prepare graduates for the expectations of a 21st-century workplace while instilling values of personal integrity and commitment to giving back to one’s community. NIU is classified as a high-research activity institution by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. It also regularly appears in top rankings for regional schools from organizations such as:

  • Bloomberg Businessweek
  • U.S. News & World Report
  • Washington Monthly
  • Military Times Magazine
  • the Corporation for National Community Service

Master of Accounting Science (Leadership)

The MAS with leadership emphasis links the importance of technical career skills and accounting expertise with professional leadership abilities that lead to career success. Graduates with this degree are prepared to navigate complex business encounters that call upon them to:

  • solve problems
  • implement plans
  • manage daily operations to meet business goals

Candidates completing this MSA will also be eligible to sit for the CPA exam. Students with business or accounting backgrounds may be able to complete the 30-credit program in as few as 12 months. They can choose to specialize the degree in either financial reporting and assurance, or taxation. Each track covers content from the concentration area along with approved non-accounting electives from the College of Business.

Accreditations

  • North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Higher Learning Commission
  • Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

Contacts
College of Business
Northern Illinois University
425 West Lincoln Highway
DeKalb, Illinois 60115

(815) 753-1637
accy@niu.edu
http://www.cob.niu.edu/accyLMAS/

Northwestern University

Kellogg School of Management, Doctoral Program

Northwestern carries a rich legacy forward from its beginnings in 1850 to provide higher education to the citizens of the country’s historical Northwest Territory. That mission stands today as its highly regarded academic and research programs continue to turn out graduates with distinction. In particular, NU’s Kellogg School of Management receives high marks annually for being one of the country’s top five business schools for undergraduate and graduate programs.

Accounting Information and Management (PhD)

Earning a doctorate can offer the advanced knowledge and competencies required for research or educational careers in accounting. This program provides candidates with rigorous studies in two leading research methodologies, the analytical or theoretical model versus the empirical or archival system. By studying and using these methods, candidates will be prepared for accounting positions in academia at the highest levels. The program spans five years with required coursework taken during the first two followed by research and dissertation requirements in years three through five. Candidates will also complete qualifying field examinations, teaching assignments and research assistance tasks.

Accreditations

  • North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Higher Learning Commission
  • Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

Contacts
Kellogg School of Management, PhD Program
Northwestern University
Jacobs Center
2001 Sheridan Road
Evanston, Illinois 60208

(847) 491-2832
kellogg-phd@kellogg.northwestern.edu
http://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu/programs/doctoralprogram/programs/accounting.aspx

Choosing to earn an advanced accounting degree lays foundations for exciting and sustainable careers. Graduates acquire cutting-edge information necessary to:

  • pass professional certification exams
  • broaden their skills to take advantage of competitive employment opportunities
  • attain the necessary credentials to make career advancements

Accredited accounting degree programs in Illinois make it possible for future accounting professionals to achieve career goals across diverse job settings at home and abroad.

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