University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

The programme builds advanced competence in core accounting areas and offers pathways into specialised topics relevant to public practice, corporate finance, government and non-profit sectors. Course work typically covers advanced financial reporting and theory, assurance and auditing, taxation, managerial accounting and performance measurement, and accounting information systems. Students can expect a blend of technical courses, applied analytics and ethics/professional responsibility content.

• Core topics: advanced financial reporting, auditing and assurance services, taxation of business entities, managerial accounting and costing, accounting information systems.
• Advanced and elective topics: forensic and investigative accounting, government and non-profit accounting, international accounting, advanced taxation, and data analytics for accountants.
• Applied learning: capstone projects, case studies, practicums or internships with local firms and government agencies; options for a research thesis or a professional portfolio/capstone depending on student focus and adviser approval.
• Professional preparation: coursework emphasises skills required for professional examinations (such as the CPA) and contemporary practice, including ethics, communication and use of accounting software and analytics tools.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold an accredited bachelor’s degree. Those with an undergraduate degree in accounting or a closely related field will find prerequisites already met; applicants from other disciplines may need to complete or demonstrate proficiency in introductory accounting and quantitative courses.

• Completed bachelor’s degree from a recognised institution.
• A strong academic transcript demonstrating readiness for graduate-level accounting study; departments typically consider overall GPA and performance in quantitative or business courses.
• Supporting materials including a résumé/CV, a statement of purpose outlining objectives and fit with the programme, and letters of recommendation.
• Standardised tests (GMAT or GRE) may be requested by the admissions committee in some cases; waivers can be available for applicants with substantial relevant work experience or strong academic records. Check the programme office for current testing policies.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency via an approved test (unless exempt) and provide certified transcripts and other documents as required for international admission.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a range of professional roles across public accounting, industry, government and not-for-profit organisations. The programme equips students with both technical accounting knowledge and practical skills sought by employers.

• Public accounting: audit associate, tax consultant, assurance specialist, pathway to senior roles in CPA firms.
• Corporate accounting and finance: financial accountant, management accountant, financial reporting analyst, internal auditor, controller-track positions.
• Specialist roles: tax specialist, forensic accountant, systems/IT auditor, accounting data analyst.
• Public sector and non-profit: government accountant, grant and fund accounting, compliance and financial reporting roles.
• Further study and credentials: many graduates go on to complete professional certifications (for example CPA, CMA) or continue to doctoral study if interested in research and teaching.

Why study at University of Hawaii at Mānoa

The programme is offered through the University of Hawaii at Mānoa’s business faculty, which provides AACSB‑aligned accounting education with a Pacific and Asia‑Pacific perspective. Students benefit from faculty with active research and professional experience, connections to local accounting firms, government agencies and regional businesses, and internship opportunities in Honolulu’s diverse economy.

• Regional focus and network: strong ties with firms and public agencies in Hawaiʻi and the Asia‑Pacific region provide distinctive internship and employment pathways.
• Applied and contemporary curriculum: emphasis on emerging topics such as accounting information systems and data analytics alongside traditional accounting disciplines.
• Support for professional qualifications: the programme is structured to help students meet educational requirements for professional certification and to prepare for exam content.
• Location benefits: studying in Honolulu offers access to a concentrated accounting and finance market serving tourism, real estate, government and multinational Pacific enterprises, useful for practical placements and employer networking.