Grand Valley State University

What you'll study

The programme builds on foundational accounting concepts and advances students’ skills in financial reporting, assurance, taxation and managerial decision-making. Course delivery combines core graduate accounting modules with elective options and applied projects to develop technical competence, professional judgement and communication.

• Core modules: Advanced Financial Reporting, Business Combinations and Consolidations, Advanced Auditing and Assurance Services, Advanced Taxation (federal tax research and planning), Accounting Information Systems and Data Analytics.
• Managerial and complementary modules: Managerial Accounting and Performance Measurement, Financial Statement Analysis, Corporate Governance and Ethics, Strategic Cost Management.
• Electives and special topics: Forensic Accounting, International Accounting, Governmental and Nonprofit Accounting, Advanced Topics in Accounting Information Systems, Fraud Examination.
• Capstone and experiential learning: A practicum or capstone project requiring applied research, client-focused engagement or a simulation that integrates technical, ethical and communication skills; opportunities for internships with local firms and community organisations.

Many courses incorporate case studies, data analytics tools (including spreadsheet modelling and accounting systems), research projects and presentations to prepare students for professional practice and the CPA exam. The programme can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis, allowing flexibility for working professionals.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree. An undergraduate degree in accounting is preferred, but candidates with degrees in finance, business or other disciplines who have completed key prerequisite accounting and quantitative courses may be considered.

• Academic credentials: A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a competitive GPA. Applicants without an accounting degree may be asked to complete prerequisite undergraduate courses such as intermediate accounting, auditing, taxation and financial accounting.
• Supporting documents: Official transcripts, a current résumé or CV, and one or more letters of recommendation that speak to academic or professional potential.
• Professional tests and English language: Standardised test scores (GMAT or GRE) may be optional or considered on a case-by-case basis depending on background. International applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate English proficiency through accepted tests or equivalent documentation.
• Experience and interview: Relevant work experience is helpful but not always required. Some applicants may be invited to interview or provide a statement of purpose outlining career goals and reasons for pursuing the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of roles across public accounting, industry, government and not-for-profit organisations. The programme emphasises the technical, analytical and communication skills employers seek and supports progression to professional licensure.

• Public accounting: Audit and assurance, tax advisory, transaction advisory and consulting roles at regional and national accounting firms.
• Industry and corporate finance: Financial reporting, controller and finance manager positions, internal audit, financial planning and analysis, and management accounting roles.
• Specialist careers: Forensic accounting, valuation, risk management, accounting information systems, and tax planning.
• Government and nonprofit: Accounting and auditing positions within governmental agencies, public sector finance and nonprofit financial management.
• Professional credentials: The programme prepares students for the CPA examination and supports other designations where relevant; graduates often go on to pursue licensure and continuing professional education.

Why study at Grand Valley State University

Grand Valley State University’s programme is housed within a business school with recognised accreditation, offering a balance of rigorous coursework and experiential learning. Students benefit from small-class interactions with faculty who have active research and professional backgrounds in accounting.

• Accreditation and quality: The business college’s accreditation and emphasis on high-quality teaching provide a curriculum aligned with professional standards and industry expectations.
• Practical experience and employer links: Strong connections with regional accounting firms, corporations and public agencies create internship and recruitment opportunities; many courses include applied projects or practicum experiences.
• Student support and resources: Dedicated resources for exam preparation, career services, and research support, plus accounting-focused student organisations that facilitate networking and professional development.
• Location and community: The university’s location provides access to a diverse business community, enabling local engagement, guest lectures from practitioners and placement opportunities.