The Master of Accountancy (MAcc) online at Emporia State University prepares you for a career in public accounting or working for corporate or government entities. You will be ready to take the CPA exam, a requirement to practice accounting in many settings, with core courses in advanced auditing, management accounting, accounting theory, accounting information systems and federal income tax.
The program offers the flexibility to focus on specific areas. Each student must take five electives from among nine choices, including managerial economics, business analytics and fraud examination. The ability to tailor this accelerated MAcc makes it ideal for working professionals interested in a long-term, lucrative career.
Consider five of the most widely pursued jobs for MAcc graduates, with annual salary data from Salary.com (January 2021) and ZipRecruiter (February 2021):
Certified public accountant
Median salary $265,624
The CPA license enables the professional to offer accounting services to the public, including audits, taxation advising, fraud investigation and business valuations. CPAs are responsible for the accounting, tax, reporting and/or audit processes for governments, corporations or individual clients. Their duties include reviewing a company’s financial information; preparing documentation related to finances, taxes or audits; and staying current with government regulations. They also may perform audits for their organization and provide guidance for improving bookkeeping practices.
Corporate controller
Median salary $202,293
This role oversees the financial and accounting functions of a business, including budgeting, billing, and accounts payable and receivable. The controller has cross-functional management duties, monitors systems for financial and accounting procedures, and supervises a variety of other functions — budgeting and forecasting, accounts payable, payroll processing, and financial statements.
Senior auditor
Average salary $88,501
This position audits complex accounting and financial data in various company departments to ensure compliance and efficiency. Senior auditors keep their businesses operating smoothly by overseeing the auditing process, managing subordinate auditors or working with outside auditors. They analyze financial data, identify and resolve financial issues, oversee junior auditors, develop risk appraisal guidelines, conduct audits, prepare reports and inspect records for waste and fraud.
Forensic accountant
Average salary $86,267
This discipline encompasses both litigation support and investigation of accounting fraud. Forensic accountants use their investigative skills to determine what actually took place in their companies or in another financial setting. These investigations often involve calculating losses and economic damages, resolving disagreements related to company acquisitions, and working with business valuations.
Tax accountant
Median salary $86,477
This position maintains tax records and prepares tax returns and tax-related reports. The tax accountant with experience may oversee junior tax accountants who are responsible for individual reports and forms. The experienced tax accountant is moderately involved in these projects and more responsible for the analysis of tax regulations.
As both business and personal accounting become more complex, expertly trained accountants with a degree from a reputable institution are in high demand. This interest level should remain steady for decades to come.
Learn more about Emporia State University’s online Master of Accountancy program.
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