University of Vermont

What you'll study

This master's focuses on advanced accounting concepts, professional standards, and the analytical skills needed for high‑level practice and certification. Core themes include advanced financial reporting, auditing and assurance, taxation, managerial and cost accounting, and accounting information systems. Students also engage with ethics and professional responsibility, data analytics applied to accounting, and current regulatory and standard‑setting issues.

• Advanced Financial Reporting — preparation and analysis of complex financial statements, accounting for business combinations, and consolidation issues.
• Auditing and Assurance — audit methodology, risk assessment, internal controls, and contemporary topics in assurance services.
• Taxation — corporate and individual tax research and planning, tax compliance issues, and the impact of tax policy on business decisions.
• Managerial and Cost Accounting — performance measurement, budgeting, cost management, and decision‑making tools used in managerial practice.
• Accounting Information Systems and Data Analytics — systems that support accounting processes, internal control design, and use of analytics for audit and business insight.
• Ethics and Professional Practice — professional standards, ethical decision making, and preparation for the responsibilities of licensed accountants.
• Capstone / Applied Project — real‑world case studies, consultancy projects or practicum elements that synthesise technical and professional skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an undergraduate degree in accounting, finance or a related discipline. Candidates without a full accounting background may be considered but could be required to complete prerequisite coursework in areas such as intermediate financial accounting, managerial accounting, auditing and taxation before or during the programme.

• Academic transcripts demonstrating satisfactory undergraduate performance.
• A curriculum vitae or resume outlining relevant academic and professional experience.
• Personal statement describing academic goals, career objectives and reasons for choosing the programme.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English.

Some applicants may submit standardised test scores if requested; specific requirements can vary so prospective students should consult the programme admissions office for current guidance. Preparation for professional exams (for example CPA or CMA) is a common focus, and the programme typically aligns course work to support those qualifications.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of accounting and finance roles across public practice, industry and the public sector. The curriculum emphasises both technical competence and the communication, ethics and analytical skills sought by employers.

• Public accounting — audit, tax and advisory roles at regional and national firms.
• Corporate accounting and finance — financial reporting, controllership, corporate tax, and treasury functions.
• Management accounting and finance business partnering — budgeting, performance management and strategic decision support.
• Forensic accounting and compliance — investigations, litigation support and regulatory compliance roles.
• Consulting and advisory services — financial due diligence, transaction advisory and systems implementation.
• Roles in government and not‑for‑profit organisations where public accountability and reporting are key.

Why study at University of Vermont

The University of Vermont’s business programmes combine rigorous academic training with experiential learning opportunities and close links to the regional business community. The business school’s accreditation and faculty expertise provide a strong foundation in current accounting standards, research and practice. Students benefit from small class sizes, opportunities for internships and practicum projects, and a campus environment that supports collaboration and career development.

Situated in Burlington, the university offers access to a range of employers across public accounting firms, growing technology and manufacturing companies, and public organisations, giving students practical contexts in which to apply classroom learning and build professional networks.