University of Arizona

What you'll study

The programme builds advanced competence across core accounting disciplines and offers elective choices to tailor specialisms. Typical modules include:

• Advanced Financial Accounting and Reporting — consolidation, specialised transactions, and presentation of financial statements under US GAAP and IFRS principles where applicable.
• Auditing and Assurance — risk assessment, audit methodologies, internal control, and professional standards.
• Taxation — corporate and partnership tax issues, tax research and planning, and individual taxation concepts.
• Accounting Information Systems — IT controls, data analytics for accounting, ERP systems and assurance of automated processes.
• Managerial and Cost Accounting — budgeting, performance measurement, strategic costing and decision support techniques.
• Forensic Accounting and Ethics — fraud examination, business valuation basics and professional ethics and responsibilities.
• Research Methods and Capstone/Practicum — applied research, case studies or a capstone project that integrates technical skills with business problems.

Delivery is a mix of lectures, case work, group projects and applied assignments. The programme normally requires completion of a set number of graduate credits and may be offered in full‑time, part‑time or online formats depending on the University of Arizona’s current programme options. Many students use the curriculum to fulfil or supplement the educational requirements for professional exams such as the CPA.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree. Recommended criteria include:

• A bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business or a related field. Applicants with degrees in other disciplines may be considered if they have completed key prerequisite accounting and quantitative courses.
• A satisfactory undergraduate academic record. Specific GPA expectations are set by the programme and considered alongside the overall application.
• Submission materials usually include a current CV or résumé, a personal statement outlining career goals and fit for the programme, and academic transcripts.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees are commonly requested.
• Graduate test scores (GMAT or GRE) may be required or optional depending on the applicant’s background and the programme’s admissions policy; experienced professionals or applicants with strong academic records may be eligible for waivers.
• International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements with an approved test such as TOEFL or IELTS unless exempted.

Applicants who lack some prerequisite coursework may be offered conditional admission subject to completing specific undergraduate modules prior to starting the master’s programme.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a range of professional roles in public accounting firms, industry, government and advisory practices. Common career paths include:

• External audit and assurance roles with national and regional accounting firms.
• Tax specialist positions in firms or corporate tax departments.
• Corporate accounting and financial reporting roles, including controller-track positions.
• Management accounting and financial planning and analysis (FP&A).
• Forensic accounting, fraud investigation and valuation services.
• Consulting roles focusing on accounting systems, internal controls and compliance.
• Positions in government finance, regulatory agencies or non-profit organisations.

The programme also supports candidates preparing for professional qualifications such as the CPA and CMA; successful completion commonly strengthens employability and access to senior roles in accounting and finance.

Why study at University of Arizona

The University of Arizona’s accounting postgraduate offering is delivered through a business school with AACSB accreditation and a long history of engagement with the accounting profession. Students benefit from faculty who are active in research and practice, as well as access to career services that cultivate employer relationships across the Phoenix and broader regional market.

The programme emphasises applied learning, with opportunities for internships, networking through student chapters of professional bodies, and access to resources such as data analytics labs and accounting technology tools. Flexible delivery options and dedicated exam preparation support help students balance study with professional commitments and progress towards certification.