University of North Dakota

What you'll study

The programme builds on core accounting principles and advances into contemporary practice and research. Typical modules include Advanced Financial Accounting, Auditing and Assurance Services, Federal Income Taxation (individuals and entities), Accounting Research and Professional Ethics, and Accounting Information Systems. Students study data analytics for accounting, managerial and cost accounting at an advanced level, and may choose electives such as Forensic Accounting, Government and Nonprofit Accounting, International Accounting, and Corporate Governance.

Structure options commonly include a coursework-based pathway with a capstone or practicum, and a research-based pathway with a thesis component. The curriculum emphasises technical competence, analytical skills, communication, and professional responsibility, with opportunities to use real-world datasets and case studies to prepare for the CPA exam and for accounting practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor's degree in accounting or a closely related field. If an applicant's undergraduate degree is in another subject, the programme typically requires completion of prerequisite accounting and business coursework (for example, intermediate accounting, cost/managerial accounting and principles of auditing) before or during the master's. A competitive undergraduate GPA is usually required.

Other standard application materials include a curriculum vitae or resume, a personal statement outlining academic and career objectives, and academic references. Standardised test requirements (such as the GMAT or GRE) may be considered on a case-by-case basis and can sometimes be waived for applicants with relevant professional experience or strong academic records. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests unless exempted.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a wide range of careers across public accounting, corporate finance, government, and non-profit sectors. Common roles include Certified Public Accountant (CPA), auditor, tax advisor, financial analyst, management accountant, internal auditor, forensic accountant, and consultancy positions. The programme is also suitable for those aiming to move into leadership, financial reporting, or specialist roles such as valuation or compliance.

Many students use the degree to meet the educational requirements for the CPA licence and to increase employability with regional and national accounting firms, corporate accounting departments, and public-sector finance offices. The mix of technical coursework and applied projects helps graduates transition into professional practice or continue to doctoral study if they choose an academic path.

Why study at University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers a focused learning environment with small class sizes and access to faculty who combine academic research with practical experience in accounting and related fields. The programme is delivered in Grand Forks, providing opportunities for local internships and strong links with regional accounting firms and public-sector employers.

Students benefit from university career services, exam-preparation resources geared toward professional certification, and exposure to applied accounting tools and data-analytics techniques used in modern practice. The campus community and alumni network provide support for career development, while elective options let students tailor the programme toward public accounting, industry, government, or specialised accounting areas.