University of Amsterdam

Overview

The Master of Science in Accountancy and Control at the University of Amsterdam is designed to deepen your knowledge in financial reporting, management control, and organizational decision-making. This program combines academic learning with practical case studies, equipping you with the analytical skills essential for careers in accounting, auditing, finance, and control.

• Degree: Master of Science (MSc)
• Programme focus: Accountancy, control systems, financial reporting, and decision-making
• Tracks: Accountancy, Control, Financial Management
• Credits: 60 ECTS
• Duration: 1 year (full-time)
• Delivery: On-campus
• Language of instruction: English
• Application: Submit via the University of Amsterdam application portal

What you'll study

The MSc program is structured around core courses complemented by track-specific coursework. You will choose one track that progresses from foundational accounting principles to advanced analytical techniques and applied decision-making.

Core and track-related coursework (examples)

• International Financial Reporting
• Incentives & Control
• Accountability & Risk Management
• Data Analytics & Professional Skills
• Financial Statement Analysis & Valuation
• Judgement & Decision Making in Accounting

Tracks

• Accountancy: Focuses on the reliability of financial information and the design of reporting to effectively communicate relevant insights.
• Control: Investigates how information aids organizations in achieving their objectives, emphasizing performance measurement and control logic.
• Financial Management: Develops skills and knowledge necessary for finance and control roles, with a focus on analytical and managerial practices.

Track flexibility: Students have the option to change tracks after starting the program, subject to specific regulations and availability.

Entry requirements

The program seeks candidates with a solid academic foundation capable of managing its rigorous demands. While the overall application is evaluated holistically, a strong academic record in your Bachelor’s degree is typically expected.

GPA guidance: Historically, applicants with a GPA equivalent to a Dutch grade of 7.0 or higher have been favorably considered. Applications with lower GPAs may still be submitted for evaluation.

Academic background

Eligible applicants should possess an academic Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degree with a specialization in one of the following areas:

• Business Economics (or Fiscal)
• Economics
• Business Administration

If your degree is in a different field, you may still qualify if you have completed relevant coursework, such as:

• Intermediate level specializations in Accountancy or Control: Management Accounting; Financial Accounting; Quantitative Research Methods
• Introductory level specializations in Accountancy or Control: Finance
• Introductory level specialization in Financial Management: Management Accounting; Financial Accounting; Finance

English language requirements

• TOEFL iBT: minimum 92
• IELTS: minimum 6.5

Career prospects

Graduates of the MSc in Accountancy and Control are well-prepared for various roles in accounting, auditing, and financial management. The program's rigorous training and practical focus enable alumni to excel in both national and international contexts, making them valuable assets in the finance and accounting sectors.