Illinois State University United States

Accountancy (M.S.)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 2 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Master of Science in Accountancy at Illinois State University equips you with the advanced knowledge and the additional 30 credit hours essential for CPA certification, both in Illinois and nationally. This STEM-designated degree offers expanded exposure to accounting and business information systems, providing a strong foundation for career advancement. You will delve into financial accounting theory, financial statement analysis, fraud examination, and advanced forensic analytics, preparing you for complex challenges in the accounting profession. This program is ideal for those seeking to deepen their expertise and enhance their professional credentials.

You will study this program full-time on campus over two years, engaging with core accounting principles and cutting-edge business analytics. The curriculum includes courses in financial reporting standards, equity valuation, fraud examination, and advanced forensic analytics, alongside programming for data science and advanced business data management. You will develop critical analytical skills through a comprehensive examination administered near the end of your final semester. Graduates are prepared for diverse roles in public accounting, corporate finance, and forensic accounting, equipped with the expertise demanded by today's financial landscape.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Master of Science in Accountancy program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills in accounting and business analytics. The program delves into critical areas such as financial accounting theory, financial statement analysis, and equity valuation. Students will also explore specialized topics including fraud examination, forensic accounting, and advanced forensic analytics, complemented by courses in programming for data science, advanced business data management, and advanced business analytics. This integrated approach prepares graduates for complex roles in the evolving fields of accounting and data-driven decision-making.

1 ACC 430 - Financial Accounting Theory

Financial accounting theory

2 BIS 471 - Advanced Business Analytics

Advanced business analytics

3 ACC 437 - Financial Statement Analysis/Equity Valuation

Financial statement analysis/equity valuation

4 ACC 452 - Fraud Examination and Forensic Accounting

Fraud examination and forensic accounting

5 ACC 453 - Advanced Forensic Analytics

Advanced forensic analytics

6 BIS 420 - Programming for Data Science

Programming for data science

7 BIS 466 - Advanced Business Data Management

Advanced business data management

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,798.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,798.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 31,596.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,000.00 - USD 1,600.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,000.00 - USD 4,560.00
Transport USD 600.00 - USD 1,200.00
Utilities & Bills USD 960.00 - USD 1,800.00
Estimated Total USD 4,560.00 - USD 7,560.00

Living cost estimates are based on Illinois Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

91%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accounting & AuditingArchitecture & Urban PlanningBrokerage & Trading & SecuritiesCivil & Infrastructure EngineeringEnvironmental & Sustainable ConstructionFinancial Technology (Fintech)Investment Management & Asset ManagementQuantity Surveying & Cost EstimationResidential ConstructionTax & Legal Compliance

Top Employers Hiring for this course

CBRE Group Inc

COUNTRY Financial®

Capital one

HUB international

State Farm

Why Study Accountancy (M.S.) at Illinois State University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

Illinois State University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Illinois State University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Accountancy (M.S.) at Illinois State University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours a week during term time and full-time during breaks. On-campus work does not require a separate permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English proficiency, acceptable scores include a Duolingo overall score of 120, a TOEFL overall score of 100, or an IELTS overall score of 7. Specific minimum scores are also required for each component of these tests.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue roles such as Public Accountant, Corporate Finance Analyst, Forensic Accountant, Financial Analyst, and Financial Auditor.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Master of Science in Accountancy at Illinois State University is a STEM-designated degree that provides advanced knowledge for CPA certification and covers financial accounting theory and forensic analytics. This program prepares you for complex challenges in public accounting and corporate finance.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The M.S. in Accountancy program offers intakes in January, June, and August. You can choose the best month that fits your schedule to start your studies.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
 
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️