Eastern Michigan University

What you'll study

The curriculum builds advanced competence in financial accounting, auditing, taxation and managerial accounting while emphasising professional communication, ethics and the use of accounting information systems. Core topics commonly include advanced financial accounting and reporting, contemporary auditing and assurance services, federal taxation of individuals and businesses, accounting information systems, and managerial decision making.

• Advanced Financial Reporting and Analysis
• Audit Theory and Practice
• Federal Taxation and Tax Research
• Accounting Information Systems and Data Analytics
• Managerial Accounting for Decision Makers
• Professional Ethics and Corporate Governance
• Research Methods or Capstone Project in Accounting
• Electives such as Forensic Accounting, Government and Nonprofit Accounting, International Accounting and Financial Statement Analysis

Program structure typically blends coursework with a culminating experience such as a practicum, comprehensive exam or applied capstone project. Flexible scheduling options — including evening and some online courses — are often available to accommodate working professionals. Applicants without an accounting background are usually required to complete prerequisite undergraduate courses in financial and managerial accounting before starting graduate‑level work.

Entry requirements

Admission is normally awarded to applicants who hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Competitive candidates commonly have an undergraduate degree in accounting or a related business field; applicants with degrees in other disciplines may be admitted conditionally and asked to complete prerequisite accounting coursework.

• Official transcripts showing completion of a bachelor’s degree
• A competitive undergraduate GPA; specific minimums and conditional admission policies are set by the department
• Resume or curriculum vitae highlighting academic and professional experience
• Personal statement outlining academic and career objectives
• Some applicants submit GMAT or GRE scores; waivers may be available based on prior coursework, professional experience or advanced degrees
• International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements and provide credential evaluations as required

Additional materials such as letters of recommendation or an interview may be requested by the admissions committee. Prospective students should consult the programme office for details about prerequisite courses and provisional admissions pathways.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of accounting and finance careers. The programme prepares students for professional certification pathways such as the CPA and enhances technical and analytic skills valued by employers across sectors.

• Public accounting: audit and tax roles at regional and national firms
• Corporate accounting and financial reporting
• Internal audit, risk management and compliance roles
• Tax specialist and consulting positions
• Government and not‑for‑profit accounting
• Forensic accounting and fraud examination
• Financial analysis and management roles that require strong accounting foundations
• Further study toward doctoral programmes or professional credentials

Internships, practicum experiences and local employer relationships help students build networks and gain practical experience in the Detroit metropolitan area and beyond.

Why study at Eastern Michigan University

Eastern Michigan University's College of Business offers an accounting programme grounded in applied learning and professional relevance. The college holds business accreditation that assures rigorous academic standards and links to a network of employers and alumni.

• Faculty with a mix of scholarly and practitioner experience who teach current accounting standards and practices
• Emphasis on experiential learning through capstone projects, internships and community engagement
• Access to career services, employer recruiting events and regional business connections in the Detroit area
• Flexible delivery formats, including evening and selected online courses, to accommodate part‑time and working students
• Support for students preparing for professional certifications, including targeted coursework and exam‑prep resources

Prospective students are encouraged to contact the programme office to discuss how the degree fits their background, certification goals and career plans.