Master of Science in Accountancy

The Master of Science in Accountancy (MSA) program in the College of Business Administration is a rigorous program providing intensive, focused coursework to prepare students for a successful career in accounting. The program enhances students’ depth of technical knowledge, breadth of understanding and communication skills, and fosters recognition of the importance of ethical conduct in the profession. With a focus on research and analytical thinking, the program improves students’ judgment and decision-making skills and helps addresses State of California requirements for CPA licensure requirements.

Application Procedure/ Prerequisites

1. Formal application to the MS in Accountancy program at CSULB via CSULB Graduate Program application using the California State University’s online application program (CSU Apply at www.calstate.edu/apply).

2. Bachelor’s degree in Accountancy or a bachelor’s degree and equivalent accounting-related coursework from a regionally accredited university.

3. Admission GPA to the CBA Master’s programs as per the University.

4. GMAT exams or GRE exams.

5. Resume.

6. Video Statement of purpose.

7. Two letters of recommendation.

8. For international students - English proficiency requirements by taking TOEFL or written portion of GMAT, GRE, or IELTS exams.

Course requirements

• Complete 30 units of approved graduate courses including but not limited to those listed below including ACCT 699 culminating experience.

• Maintain a GPA of at least 3.0 (B) throughout the program.

Course listing

• ACCT 601 Corporate Governance and Financial Reporting (4)
  Prerequisite: MSA standing

• ACCT 603 Financial Statement Analysis (4)
  Prerequisite: MSA standing, approval of MSA Director or Department Chair if needed

• ACCT 604 Forensic Accounting (2)
  Prerequisite: MSA standing

• ACCT 605 Seminar in Accounting Information Systems (4)
  Prerequisite: MSA standing

• ACCT 611 Seminar in Auditing and Assurance Services (4)
  Prerequisite: MSA standing

• ACCT 622 - Taxation of Partnerships and S Corporations (4)

          Prerequisite: MSA standing

• ACCT 623 - Taxation of C Corporations & Shareholders (4)

           Prerequisite: MSA standing

• ACCT 699 Accountant’s Professional Responsibilities and Ethics (4)

          Prerequisite: MSA standing

Culminating experience

The culminating experience, ACCT 699 (Accountant’s Professional Responsibilities and Ethics) includes a comprehensive auditing project reviewed by faculty and professionals. (Note: to satisfy the culminating activity requirement (thesis, project, or comprehensive examination dependent upon the program), students must earn at least three (3) units and no more than six (6) units related to the completion of the culminating activity.)

Advancement to Candidacy

Prior to advancement to candidacy, a student must:

1. Be accepted into the MS in Accountancy Program.

2. Maintain an overall minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA, including work transferred from other institutions, and a minimum 3.0 GPA in all work completed at this University.

3. Complete with a minimum GPA of 3.0 of at least six units of courses required on the student’s program of study.

4. Fulfill the Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement (GWAR), or receive a 4.0 or better on the writing portion of the GMAT or GRE.

Fast Track Master of Science in Accountancy 

The Fast Track Master of Science in Accountancy (MSA) program is available to promising students seeking a career in public accountancy. CSULB undergraduate accountancy students may apply to the Fast Track MSA program as undergraduates. Students are eligible for the Fast Track MSA if they maintain a 3.0 Overall and Upper Division Major GPA. Students deemed eligible for the Fast Track MSA program may waive the GMAT/GRE test and additional application requirement. Please inquire with the Graduate Business Office for more information.