Virginia Commonwealth University

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced accounting theory with applied skills needed in public accounting, corporate finance and not-for-profit organisations. Core topics include advanced financial accounting and reporting, auditing and assurance services, taxation of individuals and entities, accounting information systems, and governmental and not‑for‑profit accounting.

• Advanced Financial Reporting: consolidation, equity method, revenue recognition, leases and long‑lived assets.
• Auditing and Assurance: audit planning, evidence, professional standards, internal control and ethics.
• Taxation: advanced federal taxation of individuals, partnerships, and corporations, along with tax research and planning techniques.
• Accounting Information Systems: design, control and evaluation of systems, data analytics and the use of accounting software.
• Governmental and Not‑for‑Profit Accounting: fund accounting, reporting requirements and accountability issues.
• Electives and Special Topics: forensic accounting, advanced managerial accounting, international accounting, and business law.
• Professional Development: seminars on ethics, communication, leadership, and preparation for the CPA exam; internship or practicum options are typically available to gain workplace experience.

The programme can be completed through a mix of evening and daytime courses, allowing flexibility for full‑time students and working professionals. Coursework is structured to support completion of the 150 credit hours commonly required for CPA licensure in many jurisdictions.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Candidates with an undergraduate degree in accounting, or a related business discipline with sufficient accounting coursework, are preferred. Typical application materials include:

• Official academic transcripts demonstrating prior coursework in accounting, auditing, taxation and intermediate finance or equivalent.
• A current résumé outlining relevant academic, professional or volunteer experience.
• Personal statement explaining goals and fit with the programme.
• Letters of recommendation (usually one or two) from academic or professional referees.

Standardised test scores (GMAT/GRE) may be required for some applicants, waived for others depending on academic background or professional experience; international applicants must also meet English language proficiency requirements. Applicants with non‑accounting undergraduate degrees may be asked to complete prerequisite undergraduate accounting courses before, or as part of, the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue careers across public accounting, industry, government and the nonprofit sector. Typical roles include:

• Audit associate and senior in public accounting firms (with progression to manager and partner).
• Tax analyst, tax consultant and tax manager roles in firms and corporate tax departments.
• Corporate accounting roles such as financial accountant, reporting analyst, controller or finance manager.
• Forensic accountant, internal auditor or compliance specialist in both private and public sectors.
• Advisory and consulting positions focusing on risk management, systems implementation and business process improvement.

The programme is particularly useful for students aiming to sit the CPA exam; it provides the advanced coursework and credit hours that many state boards require. Alumni also move into leadership roles in finance, pursue specialist certifications (for example, CMA, CIA or forensic credentials) or continue to doctoral study in accounting.

Why study at Virginia Commonwealth University

Virginia Commonwealth University’s accounting programme is housed in a business school with strong regional business connections and a focus on experiential learning. Students benefit from faculty who combine academic research with practical experience, and from partnerships with local and national accounting firms that support internships, recruiting and mentoring.

• Richmond location provides access to a diverse employer base, including public accounting firms, financial services, healthcare systems and government agencies.
• Curriculum aligned to the needs of professional licensure and contemporary practice, including training in accounting technologies and data analytics.
• Opportunities for applied experience through internships, practicum courses and the school’s career services support for networking and job placement.

Overall, the programme is geared toward preparing students for the technical demands of professional accounting and for successful transition into practice, leadership and specialised accounting careers.