Qassim University

What you'll study

The MSc in Accounting combines advanced coursework with a research component, offered either as a thesis-based or coursework-only route depending on the student’s focus. Core subjects cover advanced financial accounting and reporting, managerial and cost accounting, auditing theory and practice, and taxation. Students also study accounting information systems, corporate governance, and contemporary issues in accounting such as international financial reporting standards and ethics.

• Advanced Financial Accounting and Reporting — complex consolidation, business combinations and application of IFRS.
• Advanced Management and Cost Accounting — strategic management accounting, performance measurement and budgeting techniques.
• Auditing and Assurance — audit methodology, risk assessment, internal control and forensic accounting topics.
• Taxation — corporate and personal tax issues, tax planning and compliance in a local and international context.
• Accounting Information Systems — design, controls and use of IT systems in accounting, including data analytics applications.
• Research Methods and Quantitative Techniques — research design, statistics, and academic writing preparing students for a thesis or applied research projects.
• Electives and Seminars — may include corporate finance, sustainability reporting, Islamic finance and specialised auditing topics.
• Thesis or Major Project — students on the research track complete an original thesis under faculty supervision; coursework-track students complete a major applied project or additional seminars.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in accounting or a closely related discipline. Candidates with relevant professional qualifications (for example recognised accountancy certifications) or substantial professional experience may also be considered. Typical admissions requirements include a satisfactory undergraduate academic record, a statement of purpose or research proposal for thesis candidates, and at least one academic or professional reference.

Proficiency in the language of instruction is required; where necessary, applicants will need to demonstrate competence in English and/or Arabic according to university regulations. Shortlisted applicants may be invited to an interview or assessment.

Career prospects

Graduates from the MSc Accounting programme progress to senior technical and managerial roles across public practice, industry and the public sector. Common career paths include:

• External and internal auditor roles with accounting firms or corporate audit departments.
• Financial reporting and consolidation specialist positions in corporations and multinationals.
• Management accountant, financial analyst, and budgeting/treasury roles within private and public organisations.
• Tax consultant and compliance advisor roles in professional services firms or in-house tax teams.
• Accounting systems consultant, including roles focused on ERP implementations and data analytics.
• Academic and research careers, or progression to doctoral study for those pursuing teaching and research positions.

Why study at Qassim University

Qassim University is a leading regional university with established programmes in business and economics and a growing research profile. The accounting MSc benefits from faculty with professional and academic expertise, access to industry links in the Qassim region and Saudi Arabia more broadly, and facilities that support both applied and academic research.

The programme’s balance of technical depth, research training and practical application makes it suitable for students seeking professional advancement, preparing for accountancy certifications, or moving into academic roles. Students also gain opportunities to engage with local businesses and public-sector organisations through projects and internships, supporting employability in the region’s evolving economy.