Villanova University

What you'll study

The programme combines core graduate-level accounting topics with electives and experiential components to develop technical, analytical and ethical skills. Core subjects typically include advanced financial accounting and reporting, auditing and assurance, taxation (individual and business), managerial and cost accounting, and accounting information systems. You will also study contemporary topics such as financial statement analysis, forensic accounting, SEC reporting and regulatory environment, and accounting ethics.

Many students take courses in data analytics for accountants, financial modelling, and courses that cover professional standards and CPA exam content. The curriculum is delivered through a mix of lectures, case studies, group projects and real-world simulations; a capstone or integrative project and opportunities for internships or practicum work with firms are commonly available.

Entry requirements

Admissions typically require a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Applicants with an undergraduate degree in accounting are preferred, but candidates with degrees in related fields may be admitted subject to completion of prerequisite accounting and quantitative courses (such as introductory financial accounting, managerial accounting, intermediate accounting and business statistics).

Typical application materials include official transcripts, a current résumé, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement outlining career goals and fit with the programme. Standardised test scores (GMAT/GRE) may be required or may be considered on a case-by-case basis; waivers are sometimes available for applicants with strong academic or professional experience. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency according to the university’s requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a broad range of accounting and finance roles. Common destinations include public accounting firms (audit and tax staff progressing to senior and manager roles), corporate finance and controllership positions, tax practice, forensic accounting and financial advisory, internal auditing and risk management, and management consulting. The programme is also designed to support students pursuing the CPA qualification and other professional certifications.

Villanova’s employer network and career services help students secure internships and entry-level placements with regional and national accounting firms, corporations and government agencies, and the skills learned—technical accounting, analytics, communication and ethics—are transferable to leadership roles across sectors.

Why study at Villanova University

Villanova School of Business has a long-standing reputation for rigorous accounting education and a focus on ethical leadership. The school emphasises practical, career-focused learning with strong ties to public accounting firms and corporate employers in the Philadelphia region and beyond. Faculty members bring a mix of academic research and professional experience, and the curriculum is aligned with the competency areas expected for professional certification.

Students benefit from dedicated career support, CPA exam resources and networking opportunities through alumni and employer events. The university’s emphasis on values-based education, combined with experiential learning options and proximity to major accounting employers, makes it a strong choice for students aiming for a professional accounting career.