Master of Science in Accountancy (MAcc)

Master of Science in Accountancy 

The MAcc program is a 30-credit program of study that can be completed on a 1-year or 2-year path. The curriculum meaningfully integrates forensic accounting, information technology and ethics which are significant and challenging areas facing the accounting profession today. The program prepares students for careers in public and corporate accounting, non-profit and governmental accounting and forensic accounting.

At the completion of the program, students will have fulfilled the 150 academic credit hours required to become licensed as Certified Public Accounts (CPAs) in Pennsylvania and most other states.

Many of our graduates choose to take the CPA Exam and are well-prepared to do so. Students should visit the NASBPA website for state-specific CPA exam eligibility requirements to ensure preparedness for post-graduation plans.

Duquesne's MAcc program emphasizes accounting as a profession and ensures that graduates are thoroughly prepared to be communicators, analysts and responsible leaders. Equipped with essential accounting and financial analysis skills, MAcc program graduates also have expertise that extends beyond the scope of traditional accounting, taxation, and auditing.

Program Learning Competencies and Objectives

At the completion of the MAcc, students will demonstrate proficiency in the following key areas:
 
Technical and Analytics Skills
Learners will demonstrate the technical and analytical knowledge and skills required to attain professional certifications such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) certifications.

• Learners will be able to utilize state-of-the-art data analytics tools and techniques to perform accounting, audit, and tax analyses.
• Learners will employ advanced audit tools, including artificial intelligence, to conduct an audit and fraud investigation. 

Accounting Theory and Practice
Learners will demonstrate knowledge of accounting theory and practice required to attain professional certifications such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) certifications.

• Learners will be able to recognize, evaluate, and categorize the various elements of financial fraud.
• Learners will be able to construct an audit plan and conduct an internal audit of a company.
• Learners will be able to interpret and construct financial reports in compliance with standards and regulations in various domains, including corporations, small business, and government entities.
• Learners will be able to perform situation assessments and apply appropriate internal governance and risk management methods.

Leadership and Communication Skills
Learners will demonstrate the communicate skills that are expected for a successful career in the accounting/auditing profession.

• Learners will demonstrate effective documentation skills related to areas including compliance, audit and control, fraud examination, and tax reporting.
• Learners will be able to lead professionals and clients through complex accounting-related reporting and compliance issues.

Ethical Responsibility
Learners will demonstrate a thorough understanding and appreciation for the ethical duties and responsibilities of the accounting profession.

• Learners will be able to identify legal and ethical issues in the areas of financial reporting, auditing and tax reporting, and will be prepared to act consistently within the ethical principles articulated by the accounting profession. 

Graduation Requirements for the MAcc Program