Graduate Accounting Education

Graduate Accounting Education

Choose your path
Accounting Education at UCCS

The College of Business offers three different pathways for students interested in pursuing graduate accounting education at UCCS. 

Accounting Pathways
  • Master of Science in Accounting (MSA)
    Master of Science in Accounting (MSA)
    • Full Time (Fast Track-12 months)
    • Part Time
    • Plus Certificate option (MSA+)

    Designed for students with an undergraduate degree in accounting or business with an emphasis in accounting who are also interested in meeting Certified Public Accountant (CPA) licensure requirements.

  • MBA option with an emphasis in accounting
    MBA option with an emphasis in accounting

    Designed for students who do not have a background in accounting but are interested in a career change in the field of accounting may pursue the MBA with an emphasis in accounting.

  • Graduate Certificate in Accounting
    Graduate Certificate in Accounting

    Designed for students who already have an MBA or an undergraduate in business but lack the accounting education to sit for the CPA licensure.

 

MSA Admissions

Admission Requirements for the Master of Science in Accounting (MSA)
Application Process

Learn about the steps you need to complete and submit a MSA graduate application.
Tuition

Expected MSA online and in-class tuition, as well as, credit hours and the different costs for residents and non-residents.
 

Why earn a graduate degree in accounting at UCCS?

FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING

All on-campus classes are offered in the evening hours. Students can also enroll in online courses along with courses offered on-campus, which provides flexibility to students who are also busy working professionals. Most accounting courses are held on campus. Non-accounting electives can be taken online.
RESOURCES

Graduate accounting students have full access the College of Business Career Development Center for career development resources, internships, and career placement services.
AACSB ACCREDITATION

All UCCS graduate accounting programs are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business- AACSB International. This prestigious accreditation is assurance that our programs are high-quality and taught by well-qualified faculty with a commitment to student success and continuous improvement.

The UCCS Difference

  1. Unparalleled Value

    We offer the quality and prestige that comes with AACSB International accreditation at an affordable price.
  2. Exceptional Instruction

    Our leading instructors are nationally and internationally recognized for their research and instruction. Receive personalized guidance from professors with real-world experience in their field.
  3. Individualized Attention

    Our deliberately small class sizes make it easier for instructors to provide the individualized attention they want to give and that you deserve to receive.
  4. Excellent Career & Alumni Services

    We offer career development and placement services as a benefit to our students and alumni, as well as a chance to be involved in the UCCS College of Business Alumni Association, allowing you to keep in touch and network with classmates and fellow graduates.
  5. GMAT/GRE Waivers

    You may be able to waive the GMAT or GRE exam based on a previous graduate degree or substantial management experience.
MSA Faculty Spotlight
Blaise Sonnier, D.B.A.
Dr. Sonnier’s research focuses on legal issues related to federal and state taxation, including real estate taxation, taxation of investments, limits on state taxation imposed by the U.S. Constitution, and the protection of tax workpapers and advice by the attorney-client and work product privileges. In addition, Dr. Sonnier writes a regular column on state and local taxation entitled “SALT Block” for Taxes, a leading journal for tax professionals. He is also the Senior Editor of The Journal of Legal Tax Research published by the American Taxation Association. Prior to entering academics, Dr. Sonnier practiced commercial and tax law for 21 years and brings that experience to his research and teaching.
Meet the Accounting Faculty

MSA FAQs

How many hours are required for the MSA degree?

The UCCS MSA program requires a minimum of 30 credit hours of graduate coursework contingent upon the completion of an undergraduate accounting degree or business degree with an emphasis in accounting. Applicants must have successfully completed all accounting prerequisites.

What’s the difference between a Master of Science in Accounting (MSA), a Master of Accountancy (MAcc), and a Master of Professional Accounting (MPAcc)?

Nothing really. While there are some differences in curriculum between schools all of these are graduate professional degrees designed to prepare graduates to meet the educations requirements to sit for the CPA exam.

I want to be a CPA. Should I do an MBA, an MSA, or a Graduate Certificate in Accounting?

It depends. All three credentials can be used to prepare for careers in accounting and licensure as a CPA. If you have an undergraduate degree in accounting and are very focused on a career in accounting the MSA is your fastest route to qualify for the CPA exam. If you have an undergraduate degree from outside of business or you want a broad degree with a balance of coursework in accounting as well as other business disciplines, the MBA with emphasis in Accounting is a great option. If you already have a master's degree or just want a few specific accounting courses the Graduate Certificate in Accounting is a good choice. 

Is your MS in Accounting offered online?

No. However, MSA students can choose to take their general business electives (non-accounting courses) online from our Online MBA program.