Accounting is vital to any organization. It provides the financial information necessary for strategic planning. This function is critical to managers and investors in order to make informed business decisions. To prepare you for this important business function, the program provides a generalist perspective and emphasizes conceptual understanding, analytical methods and the use of logical reasoning. You will learn the most up-to-date accounting theories and analytical techniques combined with opportunities to apply this knowledge in real-world situations.
While most Binghamton students focus their careers in public accounting, the MS degree also allows for career paths in management accounting or in government agencies such as the Treasury Department, the General Accounting Office and the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Binghamton program will prepare you for numerous career options, whether in public or private sector accounting, or provide the theoretical foundation for the PhD degree. Binghamton is known for its strong accounting program. As a result of this well-established reputation, accounting graduates are actively recruited by all of the Big Four accounting firms, as well as by regional firms.
The mechanics of accounting are emphasized, but Binghamton faculty members are known for their novel approach to integrating accounting into a more social context. Expect to use your communication skills, as the program requires you to write and present on current literature. This approach helps develop critical thinking skills, in addition to the technical aspects of accounting.
Highly integrative in nature, the curriculum includes a broad range of courses in auditing and taxation, along with financial and managerial accounting. You will be encouraged to choose from among the many electives offered in the MBA program.
General Program Requirements (MS Accounting Curriculum)
The basic program of 32 credits is designed for undergraduate accounting majors from AACSB-accredited programs who can complete degree requirements in one year. Coursework taken from a non-AACSB accredited program is subject to faculty review to determine course waiver eligibility. Students without an undergraduate degree in accounting are admitted but may need an additional 64 to 68 credits of prerequisite coursework.
Depending on the specific course of study, the degree may be used to satisfy all education requirements for certified public accountants in New York. A growing number of states have passed the AICPA five-year degree program for licensing public accountants, making this degree program an attractive option.
Part-time program option for MS Accounting Students
The MS in Accounting curriculum may be completed on a part-time basis. Part-time students are expected to take eight credits each semester. Generally, you may complete the degree program in two to five years, depending upon how many credits you take in the summer session.
