Ashland University

What you'll study

The program requires 12 credit hours drawn from four graduate courses. Required courses listed on the program page are:

• ACCT 535 Fund & Non-Profit Accounting — 3 credit hours; prerequisite: ACCT 208.
• ACCT 538 Advanced Cost Management — 3 credit hours; prerequisite: ACCT 208.
• ACCT 540 Advanced Accounting — 3 credit hours; prerequisite: ACCT 208.
• MBA 511 Managerial Accounting — 3 credit hours; prerequisite: MBA 500B or equivalent.

The program page also highlights that students may earn up to 9 credits toward a graduate business degree via Credit for Prior Learning for previously earned, industry-recognized credentials.

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree. Most graduate business certificate programs have course prerequisites; the listed accounting courses require prior completion of ACCT 208 and MBA 511 requires MBA 500B or an equivalent. Courses are delivered through the Blackboard learning management system.

Career prospects

The curriculum is structured to prepare graduates for CPA exam review and licensure and also supports preparation for professional credentials such as Certified Management Accountant, Certified Fraud Examiner and Certified Internal Auditor. Ashland’s Career Center for Life Calling offers placement support, internship assistance and career-oriented services to certificate completers.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

The program page states per-course pricing and financial aid availability: course cost is $2,595 or $865 per credit hour, and financing options are available through the Financial Aid Office. The graduate business certificates are accredited by AACSB and ACBSP. Students with prior industry credentials may be eligible for credit toward graduate business degree requirements, reducing time and cost to credential completion.