M.S. in Accounting (MSA)

M.S. in Accounting (MSA)

The Future Is Closer Than You Think
The Region's Premier Path for Tomorrow's CPAs.

The Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) degree from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs is an excellent choice for those with an undergraduate degree in accounting or business who want to pursue licensure as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

The MSA helps graduates develop a deep knowledge of all areas of accounting and prepare for the CPA exam. This 30 credit hour program, together with a student's undergraduate degree in business or accounting, is designed to satisfy the 150 credit hour requirement for licensure in Colorado and most other states.

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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. Seamless CPA Transition

    The MSA is designed to provide a comprehensive and deep knowledge of accounting, as well as preparation for the CPA exam. The combination of our undergraduate degree in accounting and the MSA is enough to satisfy the 150 credit hour requirement for licensure in Colorado and most other states. 
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. GMAT/GRE Waivers

    You may be able to waive the GMAT or GRE exam based on a previous graduate degree or substantial management experience.
AACSB Accredited

AACSB Accredited

Like all business degrees offered at UCCS, this program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International). This prestigious accreditation is your assurance that you are attending a quality program, taught by well-qualified faculty, and with a commitment to student success and continuous improvement. Learn More >>

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

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. 

What Our Students Are Saying

Jesse Martinez, MSA (2016)
Audit Associate, BKD CPAs and Advisors
"The MSA program was been a phenomenal avenue for me to learn. With guidance from the world-class staff and faculty, I have been able to grow both as an individual and as an accountant. In my graduate program, I interned for a national CPA firm, BKD CPAs and Advisors, and was offered a full-time job offer at the end of my internship."
Aishia Hines, CPA, MSA (2016)
Senior Associate Auditor
"Pursing an MSA from UCCS will open opportunities to a successful business career through personal attention, tailored education, individual growth, and active learning. UCCS has created a trusting environment where every student can get the help that they need, when they need it. Every student has the opportunity to improve their personal brand and became a better personal and professional version of themselves."
 

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Awards & Rankings
AACSB Accredited
AACSB Accredited
The College of Business is accredited by AACSB International - the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Only 5% of business schools have earned this distinction.
Photo of a UCCS graduate student in a lecture.
Top MBA Program
We are ranked a 2021 Best Part-Time MBA Program by US News & World Report, placing 89th out of 272 schools. We are also a Best Online Business MBA, ranking 88th out of 324 schools.
Top 10 Military Friendly School
Top 10 Military Friendly School
UCCS placed it's third consecutive year as a Top 10 Military Friendly School in the 2021 rankings, ranking 3rd among all large public institutions. US News & World Report also ranked us a 2021 Best Online Bachelor's Programs for Veterans and a Best Online Business MBA for Veterans.
Best Buy
Best Buy
Our Online MBA has been independently ranked a national Best Buy among AACSB accredited online degrees by GetEducated.com, a consumer watchdog group that reviews and ranks online universities for cost, quality, and credibility.
Military Friendly School
Military Friendly School
Consistently ranked a Military Friendly School, the UCCS College of Business is proud to serve our active duty, reserve and retired service personnel and their families. The UCCS Office of Veteran and Military Student Affairs partners with the College of Business to ensure accurate and timely service and support.