Mercy College

What you'll study

The programme builds advanced competence in core accounting areas while emphasising the regulatory, ethical and practical issues that public accountants face. Typical modules include:

• Advanced Financial Accounting and Reporting – consolidations, business combinations, complex financial instruments and financial statement analysis.
• Auditing and Assurance Services – audit methodology, risk assessment, internal controls, ethics and professional standards.
• Federal Taxation – income tax for individuals and businesses, tax planning and compliance issues.
• Accounting Information Systems – systems design, data analytics, controls and the role of IT in modern accounting practice.
• Governmental and Nonprofit Accounting – fund accounting, reporting requirements and compliance for public sector and not-for-profit entities.
• Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination – investigative techniques, litigation support and fraud detection.
• Professional Issues and Ethics – regulatory environment, professional responsibility and ethical decision-making.
• Capstone or Applied Project – a real-world project, practicum or intensive case study integrating technical knowledge and professional skills.

The programme typically combines lectures, case work, practicum opportunities and use of accounting software and data-analytics tools. Students who lack certain undergraduate accounting prerequisites may be required to complete foundation courses before progressing to the core master’s modules.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution. Typical requirements include:

• A bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business or a related field — or a degree in another discipline plus completion of prerequisite accounting coursework.
• A demonstrated record of academic achievement; some programmes specify a minimum undergraduate GPA.
• Submission of official transcripts, a current CV or résumé and a personal statement outlining professional goals.
• Two professional or academic references may be requested.
• Applicants without extensive accounting coursework or professional experience may be admitted conditionally and required to take bridge or foundational modules prior to the advanced curriculum.

Some applicants may be eligible for waivers of standard test requirements based on prior academic performance or relevant professional experience. International applicants should check for any additional language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master of Public Accounting commonly move into roles such as:

• External auditor or assurance practitioner in public accounting firms (audit, tax and advisory practices).
• Tax specialist or tax consultant in accounting firms or corporate tax departments.
• Forensic accountant, fraud examiner or litigation support specialist.
• Consultant in accounting systems, compliance or regulatory advisory services.
• Financial reporting or controller-track positions within industry, government agencies or not-for-profit organisations.

The programme is also appropriate for those preparing for professional certification (for example the CPA). It develops the technical knowledge, ethical grounding and practical skills employers seek in public accounting and advisory roles, and can be combined with internships or practicum experiences to enhance employability.

Why study at Mercy College

Mercy College offers a focused, practice-oriented master’s in public accounting with access to faculty who combine academic expertise and professional experience. The college’s location provides proximity to major accounting employers and professional networks, supporting internship and recruitment opportunities. Small class sizes and an emphasis on applied learning, including case work and software-based training, help students develop both the technical competencies and communication skills required for careers in public accounting.