Syracuse University

What you'll study

This master’s programme builds advanced competence in core accounting disciplines and contemporary tools used by practitioners. Core topics typically include advanced financial accounting and reporting, auditing and assurance, federal taxation, managerial and cost accounting, and accounting information systems. Students also study complementary areas such as business law, ethics and professional responsibility, and data analytics for accounting, with options or electives in forensic accounting, taxation planning, international accounting, and accounting research methods.

The curriculum is delivered through a mix of lecture, case work, hands‑on labs and project-based assignments. Many students complete a capstone project or practicum that integrates technical knowledge with client-facing skills. The programme also emphasises preparation for professional licensure, offering review sessions, exam strategy guidance and coursework designed to meet the educational requirements of the CPA and other professional credentials.

Entry requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, preferably in accounting or a related business discipline. Applicants with degrees in other fields are considered if they have completed prerequisite accounting coursework.
• A competitive undergraduate GPA. Specific GPA expectations vary by applicant pool and credentials.
• Transcripts from all post‑secondary institutions attended; evidence of prerequisite courses in areas such as intermediate accounting, auditing, and tax if required.
• Application materials including a current résumé, a statement of purpose describing academic and professional goals, and academic or professional references.
• Standardised test scores (GMAT or GRE) may be requested but waivers are commonly available for qualified applicants with relevant professional experience or strong academic records.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved test or qualifying pathway and provide appropriate documentation for visa purposes.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of accounting and finance roles. Common destinations include public accounting firms (audit and tax practice groups), corporate accounting and financial reporting, internal audit, tax compliance and planning, forensic accounting, and roles in accounting information systems and data analytics. Employers range from global accounting firms and national corporations to regional businesses, government agencies and nonprofit organisations.

The programme prepares students for professional progression towards roles such as audit associate, tax associate, staff accountant, financial analyst, internal auditor, or consultancy positions, and supports those pursuing the CPA and other professional certifications. Career services at Syracuse help with employer engagement, internships, interview preparation and networking with alumni in the accounting field.

Why study at Syracuse University

• Syracuse’s business school offers a combination of rigorous accounting training and experiential learning opportunities, connecting theory with real-world practice.
• Strong industry links and an active alumni network provide access to recruitment pipelines at public accounting firms, corporations and government organisations.
• The programme’s focus on data analytics and information systems reflects the growing demand for accountants who can work with large datasets and accounting technologies.
• Dedicated career support and licensure preparation resources help graduates navigate the transition into professional practice and advance toward certifications such as the CPA.
• Studying at Syracuse gives access to interdisciplinary resources across finance, law and information studies, enriching the accounting curriculum and broadening career pathways.