Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

How this program compares

Benchmark this program against our national recognition pages and use the key guides below to evaluate ROI, admissions difficulty, and outcomes.

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: A bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field with a minimum GPA of 3.0 is required, along with relevant undergraduate coursework in financial and managerial accounting.

About This Program

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville offers an online Master of Science in Accountancy designed to enhance technical skills and knowledge for CPA preparation, CMA certification, or CIA credentials. The AACSB-accredited program provides two specialization options with flexible online delivery accommodating busy professionals.

Career Outcomes

Graduates pursue careers as CPAs, certified management accountants, internal auditors, accounting managers, tax specialists, business analysts, and financial controllers in corporations, accounting firms, government, and nonprofit sectors.

• 1. Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
• 2. Internal Auditor
• 3. Tax Manager
• 4. Financial Controller

What You'll Learn

• Prepare complex financial statements and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Conduct audits and assess internal controls for risk management.
• Analyze tax implications for individuals and organizations.
• Apply managerial accounting to business decision-making.

Curriculum Highlights

30 total credit hours: 18 hours of core accounting courses plus 12 hours of electives; specializations in Business Analytics or Taxation; courses include Financial Reporting, Taxation, Auditing, Cost Accounting, Accounting Analytics, and electives from accounting or other business courses

Top Employers

Top employers include the Big Four firms (Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG), regional accounting firms, and corporate finance departments in manufacturing and financial services.

Admissions

A bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field with a minimum GPA of 3.0 is required, along with relevant undergraduate coursework in financial and managerial accounting.

Application Materials

• Statement of Purpose: Required
• Letters of Recommendation: 2–3
• Resume: Required
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Academic Requirements

• Degree Required: Bachelor's degree
• GRE/GMAT: Optional or Not Required
• TOEFL/IELTS: Required for international students (TOEFL 80+ / IELTS 6.5+)