Cost & earnings at Benedictine University What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
Accounting graduates earn a median $59,954 Across 616 US programmes, two years after finishing
See the degree grade →The Master’s in Accounting and Related Services at Benedictine University is a graduate programme designed to deepen technical accounting knowledge, develop professional skills and prepare students for certification and applied roles in public, corporate and not‑for‑profit sectors. It suits recent graduates with a background in accounting or business, as well as professionals seeking to meet additional education requirements for licensure or to advance into specialised accounting roles.
The programme builds advanced competence in financial reporting, auditing, taxation and accounting information systems, while also covering related areas such as ethics, regulatory issues and data analysis. Typical modules include advanced financial accounting and reporting, assurance and auditing, federal taxation of individuals and businesses, accounting information systems and controls, forensic accounting and fraud examination, and contemporary topics in managerial accounting. Students also study research and communication skills for accountants and may undertake a capstone project, practicum or elective courses in areas such as business analytics, nonprofit accounting, mergers and acquisitions accounting, or advanced auditing techniques.
Programme structure is usually credit‑based and flexible, allowing a combination of core courses and electives to meet individual career goals. The curriculum is deliberately practice‑oriented, emphasising case work, software applications used in practice, and preparation for professional examinations such as the CPA. For students without a full accounting undergraduate background, the programme typically offers prerequisites or bridge courses to ensure readiness for graduate‑level study.
Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree. Preference is given to applicants with an undergraduate major or substantial coursework in accounting and related business subjects. Typical requirements include a satisfactory undergraduate academic record and evidence of quantitative ability. Where an applicant’s accounting background is incomplete, conditional admission may be offered alongside required prerequisite courses.
Additional application materials commonly requested are official transcripts, a personal statement outlining professional objectives, and references. Some applicants may be asked to provide a résumé and, where relevant, details of professional experience. Standardised test scores (such as GMAT) may be optional or considered on a case‑by‑case basis depending on prior academic performance and work history. International applicants will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency in line with university policy.
Graduates enter a wide range of accounting and finance roles. Common career destinations include certified public accountant (CPA) positions in public accounting firms, internal and external audit roles, tax practitioner positions, management accounting and financial reporting roles in corporations, and specialist positions in forensic accounting and compliance. The degree also supports advancement into consulting, financial analysis and senior finance management.
The programme is particularly useful for students aiming to meet educational requirements for professional certification and for those seeking to move from generalist roles into specialised technical positions. Benedictine’s career services and employer links help students identify internships and job opportunities with accounting firms, corporate employers and governmental or not‑for‑profit organisations.
Benedictine University offers a personalised learning environment with relatively small class sizes and direct access to experienced faculty who combine academic credentials with professional practice. The university emphasises applied learning, using case studies, contemporary accounting software and projects that reflect real workplace challenges.
The university provides flexible delivery options to accommodate working professionals, including evening and online course formats where available, and support services such as academic advising and career counselling. Students benefit from connections with regional employers and alumni in the Chicago metro area, which can aid networking, internships and placement. Overall, the programme is designed to give students the technical mastery and professional skills needed to succeed in a rapidly changing accounting landscape.
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