Suffolk University

What you'll study

The program combines core graduate accounting work with concentration options. MSA coursework is designed to align with contemporary CPA exam topics and industry practice; Becker’s CPA Exam Review is integrated into course materials.

• Core features: graduate accounting study with CPA exam preparation via Becker integration and guidance from practitioner and scholar faculty.
• Concentrations (choose one):
• Business Analysis & Reporting (BAR) — emphasis on assurance/advisory work, financial statement analysis and reporting, technical accounting, financial and operations management, with a data analytics focus; topics may include revenue recognition, leases, business combinations, derivatives and hedge accounting, and employee benefit plan statements.
• Information Systems & Controls (ISM) — STEM — concentrates on technology and business controls, IT and data governance, internal control testing, information system security (network security, software access, endpoint security), and IT audit topics; designed for those interested in assurance/advisory related to business processes and information systems.
• Tax Compliance & Planning (TCP) — covers advanced individual and entity tax compliance, personal financial planning, entity planning, inclusions/exclusions to gross income, gift taxation, consolidated returns, multijurisdictional tax issues, transactions between entities and owners, and tax treatments for formation and liquidation of business entities.

Entry requirements

The source page provides contact details for Graduate Admission and notes a 4+1 pathway for qualified seniors or recent graduates to complete the MSA more quickly; specific GPA, prerequisite coursework, test score, or document requirements are not listed on the provided text. Prospective applicants are directed to the Office of Graduate Admission for application advising and eligibility information.

Career prospects

Graduates have moved into roles such as staff accountant, audit associate, tax associate, supervisor, senior analyst and vice president-level positions at employers including Big Four and regional firms, financial services and corporate employers. Reported program outcomes (from the source) include a mean starting salary figure and high placement within 3–6 months: alumni outcomes data show graduates obtaining positions quickly and a large majority working in degree-related roles.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Graduate Student Services provides application advising and financial aid counseling; international student resources are available. The program also offers professional development workshops and lifelong access to resources from the Center for Career Equity, Development & Success. For specific scholarships, assistantships or funding options, applicants should consult the graduate admission office and financial aid counselors referenced on the program page.