Golden Gate University

What you'll study

The programme builds a deep, practical understanding of federal and state taxation, tax research and tax accounting. Core topics typically include federal income taxation of individuals, corporations and partnerships; tax procedure and controversy; estate and gift taxation; tax policy and ethics; and state and local taxation. Many students also study international taxation, consolidated returns, tax accounting methods, employee benefits and compensation planning, and specialised elective modules such as tax-exempt organisations or advanced corporate tax planning.

Coursework is delivered through a mix of doctrinal lectures, problem-based seminars and applied projects. Students commonly complete a capstone or practicum that emphasises tax research, client work and real-world compliance problems. Classes are offered in formats that accommodate working professionals, including evening and hybrid/online options.

Entry requirements

• A recognised bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Degrees in accounting, finance, business or law are common, but applicants from other backgrounds with relevant experience are also considered.
• A competitive undergraduate GPA; applicants with lower GPAs may offset this with professional experience or additional coursework.
• Evidence of quantitative aptitude and basic accounting knowledge; some programmes expect prior coursework in introductory accounting or financial accounting.
• A current résumé or CV outlining professional experience. Relevant tax, accounting, audit or financial roles strengthen an application.
• A personal statement describing professional goals and reasons for pursuing advanced study in taxation. Some applicants provide letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests unless exempted by prior study in English.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue roles across public accounting firms, corporate tax departments, government agencies and specialist tax boutiques. Typical job titles include tax associate or senior, tax manager, corporate tax analyst, indirect tax specialist, transfer pricing analyst, estate planning advisor and tax consultant. Graduates with accounting backgrounds often progress toward CPA licensure, while others pursue credentials such as Enrolled Agent (EA) or specialised tax certificates.

The programme also provides a strong foundation for careers in tax controversy and compliance, international tax planning, mergers and acquisitions tax work, and advisory roles that require technical tax research and client-facing skills. Many alumni work in the Bay Area with Big Four and regional accounting firms, technology and life-sciences companies, or in federal and state tax administrations.

Why study at Golden Gate University

• Location in San Francisco places students at the heart of a dynamic economy with extensive demand for tax professionals in technology, finance and professional services.
• Faculty are largely practitioners and experienced tax professionals, offering practical insights, case studies and direct connections to industry practice.
• Flexible scheduling with evening and hybrid formats caters to working professionals who wish to advance their tax expertise without leaving employment.
• Opportunities for applied learning through practicum projects, tax clinics and close engagement with local firms and government tax offices.
• Career services and alumni networks in the Bay Area support recruitment into accounting firms, corporate tax teams and advisory practices.