University of Massachusetts Amherst

What you'll study

The programme combines a core business foundation with progressively specialised accounting modules. Early years typically cover principles of financial and managerial accounting, introductory finance, micro‑ and macroeconomics, business law and quantitative methods. Later years move into intermediate and advanced topics such as:

• Intermediate and Advanced Financial Accounting – consolidated financial statements, revenue recognition, leases and accounting for income taxes.
• Managerial and Cost Accounting – budgeting, cost allocation, performance measurement and decision support for managers.
• Auditing and Assurance – audit processes, internal control, ethics and professional standards.
• Federal and International Taxation – individual and business tax fundamentals and tax planning considerations.
• Accounting Information Systems – IT controls, database concepts and use of accounting software for reporting and analytics.
• Business Analytics and Quantitative Methods – statistics, data analysis and forecasting techniques applied to accounting problems.
• Electives and Capstone – options may include forensic accounting, advanced auditing topics, sustainability reporting, and a senior capstone or integrative project.

The degree typically includes opportunities for internships, team projects, case studies and internships that connect classroom learning to real business problems. Students who aim for professional credentials can follow course sequencing that supports subsequent CPA, CMA or ACCA requirements.

Entry requirements

Typical entry requires a secondary school diploma or equivalent with strong performance in quantitative subjects. Successful applicants usually demonstrate:

• Good grades in mathematics (or equivalent quantitative courses) and strong overall academic record.
• Completion of high‑school courses in English and mathematics; prior study of economics or business is helpful but not always mandatory.
• A personal statement that outlines interest in accounting and career goals, plus one or two academic or professional references if requested.
• For international students, proof of English language proficiency through recognised tests or qualifications accepted by the university.

Admission is competitive; successful applicants typically show analytical aptitude, attention to detail and evidence of teamwork or leadership from extracurricular activities or work experience.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of roles across public practice, industry and the public sector, including:

• Audit and assurance – junior auditor progressing to senior and manager roles in public accounting firms.
• Tax – tax associate roles in firms or in‑house tax positions with businesses.
• Corporate and management accounting – financial reporting, cost accounting, budgeting and financial planning roles within companies.
• Forensic accounting and compliance – investigations, internal audit and regulatory reporting.
• Financial analysis and consultancy – positions in finance teams, advisory firms or analytics roles that draw on accounting knowledge.

Many graduates pursue professional qualifications such as the CPA or CMA, or continue with postgraduate study (for example a master’s in accounting, finance or an MBA) to accelerate career progression and meet licensing requirements.

Why study at University of Massachusetts Amherst

The University of Massachusetts Amherst provides accounting education within a well‑established business school environment, combining rigorous academic teaching with practical experience. Students benefit from faculty who are active in research and professional practice, a curriculum aligned with current accounting standards and access to career services that cultivate employer relationships across New England and beyond.

• Experiential learning – opportunities for internships, practicum courses and industry projects that build workplace skills and professional networks.
• Professional preparation – course pathways and advising that support students preparing for CPA and other accounting certifications.
• Student organisations and mentorship – accounting and finance clubs, guest speaker programmes and alumni connections that help with recruitment and career development.
• Location and employer access – proximity to regional financial centres and a strong employer recruitment pipeline for internships and graduate roles.

Together these elements make the programme a solid choice for students seeking a thorough grounding in accounting principles alongside opportunities to develop practical skills and professional credentials.