| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-06-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Master of Science in Public Accounting at Mercy University prepares students for the CPA exam and careers in accounting, auditing, and taxation. The program combines advanced accounting courses with business courses from the MBA program, and features innovative teaching methods, experiential learning opportunities, and a personalized mentoring program. Graduates are well-equipped for high-paying careers in the accounting field.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview
The Master of Science in Public Accounting is designed for individuals who aspire to enter or advance their careers as certified public accountants (CPAs). The program integrates advanced study and research in auditing, taxation, and financial and management accounting with business courses from the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program. Mercy University offers a preparatory program for candidates with a background in business or accounting.
Objectives
The program aims to:
- Prepare students to sit for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam and become licensed certified public accountants.
- Develop students' analytical and problem-solving skills in the fields of accounting, auditing, and taxation.
- Enhance students' communication and presentation abilities.
- Foster teamwork and collaboration among students.
- Instill ethical values and professional conduct in students.
Program Description
The 30-credit M.S. in Public Accounting program can be completed in as few as 14 consecutive months of study. Many students begin the program each June and finish by the following July. Typically, students take two courses each 10-week term in the evening at the Dobbs Ferry campus and can complete the program in five consecutive terms.
Outline:
Curriculum
The curriculum consists of 18 credits of accounting courses and 12 credits of business courses.
Accounting Courses (18 Credits)
- Auditing I
- Auditing II
- Advanced Financial Accounting
- Advanced Taxation I
- Advanced Taxation II
- Governmental and Non-Profit Accounting
Business Courses (12 Credits)
- Advanced Business Statistics
- Business Law and Ethics
- Financial Management
- Marketing Management
- Operations Management
- Strategic Management
Assessment:
Assessment methods vary depending on the course and may include:
- Exams
- Quizzes
- Homework assignments
- Projects
- Presentations
- Case studies
Teaching:
Teaching Methods
The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures
- Discussions
- Case studies
- Simulations
- Role-playing
Faculty
The program's faculty consists of highly accomplished professionals with extensive practical experience in accounting and auditing. Many have worked as auditors, controllers, and CFOs in the Big Four accounting firms and other organizations.
Unique Approaches
The program incorporates innovative teaching approaches, such as:
- The use of technology to enhance learning and collaboration.
- Experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and case competitions.
- A personalized mentoring program that pairs students with experienced professionals.
Careers:
Career Paths
Graduates of the program can pursue careers as:
- Auditors
- Tax accountants
- Controllers
- Chief Administrative Officers (CAOs)
- Chief Financial Officers (CFOs)
- Chief Executive Officers (CEOs)
Salary
The average annual salary for experienced accountants and auditors in New York is $67,000, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Opportunities
Students in the program have opportunities for internships and employment at various organizations, including:
- The NYS Tax Department
- Pepsi
- IBM
- All Big Four accounting firms
