Widener University

What you'll study

The Master’s in Taxation curriculum builds advanced competence in the substantive law, accounting rules and practical skills needed for modern tax practice. Core topics typically include federal income taxation of individuals and businesses, corporate and partnership tax, state and local taxation, estate and gift taxation, and tax accounting. Students also study tax research and writing, tax controversy and practice, ethics and professional responsibility, and elective topics such as international taxation, employee benefits, mergers and acquisitions, and tax planning for closely held businesses.

The programme emphasises applied learning: students analyse real tax problems, complete research projects using primary authorities and tax databases, and work through case studies that mirror the issues faced by firms, corporations and government agencies. The course is delivered in flexible formats to suit working professionals, with options for evening, part‑time, and sometimes online or hybrid study depending on local availability.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor’s degree. A prior qualification in accounting, finance, business, or law is advantageous but not always required. Typical application materials include an official transcript, a current CV or résumé, a personal statement explaining professional goals and reasons for seeking the degree, and letters of recommendation in some cases.

Admissions panels commonly look for academic readiness for graduate study and relevant experience; some candidates with non‑accounting degrees may be asked to complete foundation accounting or tax preparatory courses before or during the programme. International applicants must meet the university’s English language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a range of tax and advisory roles in public accounting firms, corporate tax departments, law firms, government revenue agencies and wealth management practices. Common job titles include tax associate/analyst, senior tax accountant, tax manager, tax consultant, corporate tax specialist, and tax examiner or attorney when combined with legal qualifications.

The programme also supports professionals preparing for or advancing in professional credentials such as the CPA and roles that require specialised technical knowledge in tax controversy, international tax planning, estate planning, and transactional tax advice. Alumni progress into leadership positions in tax departments, partner tracks at accounting firms, and senior advisory roles in industry and government.

Why study at Widener University

Widener offers a tax programme grounded in practitioner expertise and a professional orientation, taught by faculty who combine academic credentials with experience as CPAs, tax attorneys and practising advisers. Class sizes are typically small, which allows close interaction with instructors and personalised feedback on research and practicum work.

The university’s location in the Philadelphia metropolitan area provides access to a broad professional market — regional accounting firms, corporate headquarters and government offices — supporting internship and networking opportunities. Widener also emphasises flexible delivery for working professionals and career services that help students translate advanced tax training into practical career moves.

Overall, the programme is suitable for those seeking rigorous technical training, practical problem‑solving experience and a pathway to advanced roles in tax practice and advisory services.