Lebanese American University

What you'll study

The MSc in Finance and Accounting combines core subjects in finance with advanced accounting topics to give a balanced, applied grounding in both disciplines. The programme typically includes a mix of compulsory and elective modules, and offers a choice between a research thesis or a professional capstone project.

• Core finance modules: corporate finance, investment analysis, financial markets and institutions, risk management, and quantitative methods for finance.
• Core accounting modules: advanced financial accounting, management accounting and control, international financial reporting standards (IFRS) and strategic accounting issues.
• Applied and professional modules: auditing and assurance, taxation, forensic accounting, financial statement analysis, and ethics and corporate governance.
• Research and practice: options normally include a supervised thesis, an applied capstone consultancy project with an employer, or an extended professional report.
• Skills development: training in financial modelling, working with financial databases and accounting software, presentation and professional communication, and case-study based decision making.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelors degree in accounting, finance, business administration or a related discipline. Applicants with non-business undergraduate degrees but with relevant work experience may also be considered.

• Academic transcript showing a relevant undergraduate degree.
• Curriculum vitae detailing any professional experience, internships or relevant training.
• Statement of purpose explaining academic and professional objectives and fit with the programme.
• Two academic or professional references.
• Evidence of English language proficiency if the degree was not completed in English (tests such as IELTS or TOEFL, or equivalent documentation).
• Some applicants may be asked to attend an interview; standardised test scores (GMAT/GRE) are sometimes requested or considered depending on academic background.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme are prepared for a wide range of finance and accounting roles across the private, public and not-for-profit sectors. The curriculum emphasises technical competence and professional standards sought by employers.

• Financial analyst, investment analyst or portfolio management roles in banks, asset managers and investment firms.
• Corporate finance positions such as finance manager, treasury analyst or corporate controller.
• Accounting and assurance careers including external auditor, management accountant and roles in financial reporting or compliance.
• Risk management, forensic accounting and internal audit positions across corporate and public sector organisations.
• Progression to senior leadership roles (CFO, head of finance) or further study such as professional accounting qualifications (e.g. CPA, ACCA) or doctoral research.

Why study at Lebanese American University

Lebanese American University offers this MSc within a regionally connected environment that combines international academic standards with local market knowledge. The programme benefits from experienced faculty who teach contemporary theory alongside applied practice and case work relevant to the Middle East and global markets.

• Access to industry links and internship opportunities with banks, professional services firms and corporates in Lebanon and the wider region.
• Practical training using financial databases and accounting software, and support for professional certification pathways.
• Flexible delivery options to accommodate working professionals, with evening and part-time study choices commonly available.
• Location on LAU campuses that support a diverse student body and networking with alumni active across finance and accounting sectors.