University of Mississippi

What you'll study

This master's programme builds on core accounting principles and extends into advanced areas such as financial reporting, auditing, taxation and accounting information systems. Typical modules include:

• Advanced Financial Accounting – complex consolidation and reporting issues, international reporting considerations, and recent standard-setting topics.
• Advanced Auditing and Assurance – audit methodology, risk assessment, internal controls, and professional standards.
• Taxation for Business Entities – corporate and partnership tax planning, compliance and research.
• Accounting Information Systems and Data Analytics – systems design, controls, and the application of data analytics in assurance and advisory work.
• Managerial Accounting and Decision Making – costing, budgeting, performance measurement and strategic decision support.
• Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination – investigative techniques, litigation support and fraud deterrence.
• Research Methods and Professional Ethics – research skills for practitioners and ethical responsibilities of accountants.
• Capstone / Practicum – a integrative project, case study or practicum placing academic learning into a real-world context; internships and client projects are commonly available.

The programme is offered with flexible pathways: a coursework-focused track for practice readiness and an option that includes a research/project component. Students often take elective modules to specialise (for example in taxation, audit, forensic accounting or analytics). The curriculum is designed to support candidates preparing for professional qualifications such as the CPA.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Preference is given to those with an undergraduate degree in accounting or a related business discipline, but candidates with degrees in other fields who can demonstrate sufficient quantitative skills and accounting foundations may also be considered.

• Academic transcripts showing completion of prior degree work; a minimum cumulative GPA is typically required (check the school’s guidance for current thresholds).
• Evidence of prerequisite coursework in foundational accounting subjects may be requested; applicants without these may need to complete bridging courses.
• Supporting documents such as a resume/CV, statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.
• Some applicants may be asked to submit GMAT or GRE scores, though waivers or alternative review processes are commonly available for candidates with strong academic or professional records.
• International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements and provide certified academic records in support of their application.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of careers across public accounting firms, corporate finance departments, government agencies and advisory practices. Typical roles include:

• Audit associate and senior roles in public accounting, including national and regional firms.
• Tax consultant, tax manager and corporate tax specialist positions.
• Financial reporting manager, controller and corporate accounting roles in industry.
• Forensic accountant, fraud examiner and litigation support specialist.
• Management consultant and advisory roles focused on risk, compliance and analytics.
• Positions in government and nonprofit accounting.

The programme’s emphasis on technical knowledge, ethics and applied analytics prepares graduates for CPA and other professional qualifications and helps them meet the educational requirements for licensure in many jurisdictions. Career services, employer recruiting events and alumni networks at the university also support placement into internships and graduate roles.

Why study at University of Mississippi

The University of Mississippi’s accounting programmes are delivered by a dedicated school of accountancy within a well-established business school and benefit from AACSB accreditation. Students learn from faculty with practical and research credentials, and the school maintains strong relationships with regional and national accounting firms, which helps with recruitment and internship opportunities.

• Practical focus with opportunities for experiential learning, client projects and internships that connect classroom theory to practice.
• Resources to support professional examination preparation and career development, including workshops, recruiting events and alumni mentoring.
• A campus and community environment that supports collaborative learning and close faculty-student engagement.
• Access to a broad alumni network across public practice, industry and government, helping graduates launch and advance their careers.

Prospective students should consult the School of Accountancy for specific programme options, elective offerings and guidance on meeting professional licensure requirements in their intended jurisdiction.