Five-Year Combined B.S./M.S. in Accounting

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Combined B.S./M.S. in Accounting is available for currently-enrolled Caldwell University School of Business and Computer Science undergraduate accounting students. Those students who have achieved junior status (60+ credits) and a cumulative GPA of at least 3.5 may request admission into the Master’s program. Once admitted to the Master’s program, the student takes a combination of undergraduate courses and graduate courses during the fourth year. Two graduate level courses (BU 520 Advanced Business Strategy and BU 525 Advanced Auditing) can be taken during the fourth year.  BU 420 Ethical Business Strategy and BU 325 Auditing core business undergraduate courses, respectively, required for a Bachelor’s degree in the School of Business and Computer Science will be substituted with the applicable upper level graduate courses. These six credits for graduate-level courses may fulfill both the 120 credit hours required for a bachelor’s degree and fulfill 6 credits worth of the MS program requirements. Upon completion of the bachelor’s degree, the student will exclusively complete the remaining 24 credits of  MS required coursework.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS For Combined B.S./M.S. in Accounting

• Junior status by completing a minimum of 60 credit hours and an overall GPA of 3.5
• Declared accounting major
• Completion of a minimum of 12 credit hours of business courses at Caldwell University with a minimum overall GPA of 3.5 in those courses
• A business administration division faculty member recommendation and sponsorship
• Submission of a graduate application
• Submission of a statement of objectives for entering the program
• The substantial business experience requirement will be WAIVED for successful applicants to the combined program

Earning a Master of Science (M.S.) in Accounting opens a world of opportunities in various sectors. Graduates with this advanced degree are equipped with specialized knowledge and skills that make them highly sought after in the job market. Here are some potential career paths and further education opportunities for M.S. in Accounting graduates:

Career Opportunities:

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA): Work as an independent auditor, tax advisor, or consultant, with opportunities to advance to senior management roles within accounting firms or corporations.
• Forensic Accountant: Investigate financial discrepancies and fraud, often working closely with law enforcement agencies or private firms to provide expert testimony.
• Corporate Controller: Oversee all accounting functions within a corporation, including financial reporting, budgeting, and internal controls.
• Chief Financial Officer (CFO): Lead a company’s financial strategy, planning, and analysis, playing a key role in executive decision-making.
• Internal Auditor: Evaluate and improve the effectiveness of risk management, control, and governance processes within an organization.
• Financial Analyst: Provide insights and recommendations based on financial data to help businesses make informed investment and strategic decisions.
• Tax Manager: Specialize in tax planning and compliance, advising businesses on tax strategies to optimize their financial performance.

With an M.S. in Accounting, graduates are well-prepared to pursue a variety of high-impact career paths and advanced education opportunities. The skills and knowledge gained through this program will enable them to excel in the accounting profession and make significant contributions to the financial health and success of organizations.