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Master of Science in Accounting

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Accounting is at the heart of smart business — and today’s professionals play a vital role in shaping decisions across industries. From accounting firms and corporate finance teams to startups and global enterprises, skilled accounting leaders are driving performance, managing risk and guiding growth.

Merrimack’s M.S. in Accounting (MSA) empowers you to step into those roles with confidence. Delivered 100 percent online and tailored to your background, the program equips you with the financial insight, technological fluency and strategic mindset employers demand in a rapidly changing business world.

Here’s what you’ll gain:

  • A future-focused curriculum grounded in real-world application
  • Hands-on experience with tools and technologies used by top employers
  • Optional concentrations in Business Analytics, Forensic Accounting and Taxation
  • CPA-aligned coursework for those pursuing licensure — but valuable far beyond the exam

Whether you’re advancing in accounting, exploring leadership roles in finance and other industries or pivoting to new opportunities, Merrimack’s M.S. in Accounting opens the door to a trusted, in-demand profession across every sector of the economy.

Learn more about Merrimack’s M.S. in Accounting.

By submitting this form, you agree to be contacted by Merrimack College and its partners via email, phone or text for program information and application guidance. You grant us permission to call or text you at this number, and that contact may be made using automated dialing systems and/or an artificial or prerecorded voice.


Accounting remains a top career choice for those seeking stability, growth and the opportunity to make a strategic impact.

Earning a Master of Science in Accounting can open doors to diverse career paths in public accounting firms, corporate finance departments, government agencies and nonprofit organizations. It also strengthens your qualifications for advanced roles in areas such as auditing, forensic accounting, managerial accounting, taxation, IT audit and analytics and consulting.

Source: Payscale, 2024

Master of Science in Accounting Coursework


Three Pathways To Earn Your M.S. in Accounting

The M.S. in Accounting offers a pathway for students to build the skills needed to launch or advance a career in accounting and business. The program is open to individuals with undergraduate degrees in accounting, business or other disciplines.

CPA Exam Preparation

The M.S. in Accounting curriculum meets the 150-hour requirement for CPA licensure in Massachusetts and is regularly updated to reflect changes to the CPA Exam.

If you plan to pursue licensure in another state, visit NASBA.org for state-specific requirements.

A 4-credit, instructor-led CPA Examination & Review course can be taken as an elective or added to your curriculum to support your CPA preparation.

I have an accounting bachelor’s degree (32 credits)

Accounting is a dynamic and ever-changing field. This course examines 1) recent changes to accounting standards issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) and Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), such as revenue recognition and environmental, social and governance (ESG) accounting and disclosures, and 2) advances in accounting and audit technology, such as robotic process automation, machine learning, artificial intelligence, automated transaction processing, big data, data analytics and enterprise resource planning systems. Students develop a nuanced understanding of the complex financial reporting process and ethical issues confronted by the business community and accounting profession. Credits: 4

This course, through the use of cases, current event research and extensive discussion, covers a variety of ethical topics that are critical to accounting professionals. It examines white-collar crimes in various facets of the accounting industry, from issues in reporting in areas of auditing and taxation to embezzlement and fraud. Topics include: the importance of identifying ethical dilemmas and applying sound ethical decision-making, corporate governance and the role it plays in mitigating and resolving ethical issues, fraudulent financial reporting, the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct and the role of public accounting and the impact of ethical decisions on shareholders and stakeholders. It also integrates select federal tax crimes found in United States Code (U.S.C.) Title 26, including U.S.C. § 7201 (Tax Evasion) and U.S.C. § 7206(1) (False Return), and covers the legal, evidentiary and procedural challenges presented in the investigation and prosecution of tax and other white-collar crimes. Credits: 4

In today’s business environment, it seems like the terms “big data” and “analytics” are everywhere. The accounting and auditing professions are being transformed by the incredible amounts of data that are captured and stored by companies’ accounting, marketing, operating and other systems. Accounting professionals must develop important skills to explore, manipulate and query data and use it effectively in answering business and accounting questions. This course introduces students to Tableau, relational databases, SQL, XBRL and Excel, and provides hands-on exposure in the use of each tool to analyze data, find exceptions and create visualizations that uncover and tell the stories underlying the data. Credits: 4

Business structure has a significant impact on taxation. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the taxation of business enterprises, including corporations, partnerships and sole proprietorships. Topics include the theory and political environment of taxation, income determination, deductions and credits, acquisition and disposition of property, and related gains and losses, distribution of income, and liquidation of business entities. Tax planning and research are emphasized. Credits: 4

This course is designed for students aiming to deepen their knowledge and skills in auditing practices, theory and application. This course focuses on the complexities and challenges encountered in modern audit environments, including the integration of emerging technologies, regulatory frameworks and ethical considerations. Students will engage with advanced audit methodologies, risk assessment, internal controls, audit reporting and assurance services. By the end of the course, students will be prepared to critically analyze and apply auditing techniques to complex business environments and organizations, navigating the intricacies of professional judgment, audit evidence, and reporting.

This course provides a comprehensive examination of Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) as a core function in organizational financial management. Students will learn how to develop budgets, forecasts and long-range financial plans that support strategic business goals. Emphasis is placed on understanding the drivers of financial performance, analyzing key variances and making informed recommendations to improve financial outcomes. Students will evaluate business initiatives, assess financial risk and enhance their ability to think critically about organizational resource allocation. The course fosters the development of strong financial judgment and effective communication skills essential for influencing decision-makers in both corporate and public sector settings.

Merrimack offers optional concentrations in business analytics, forensic accounting and taxation. However, choosing a concentration is not required — you may select any available elective that aligns with your professional goals. Please note that some advanced electives may have prerequisite requirements.

Businesses are increasingly turning to data to evaluate and improve the efficacy of decisions. The ability to use data to inform the decision-making process is a critical skill for successful business professionals. This course introduces students to the growing role of evidence-based management and the manner in which data is used to answer high-level business questions. Students are exposed to real-world applications of analytics to solve problems in a variety of industries. Credits: 4

Businesses are acquiring data at incredible speed and volume. This data can become the foundation of informed, data-driven decisions when organized and analyzed at scale. This course introduces students to the processes of identifying and analyzing data to find patterns and relationships that can drive informed decisions. The course makes extensive use of data-embedded case studies, enabling learners to develop hands-on, applied data analytic competencies as a means of driving strategic decisions. Credits: 4

Winning organizations today use analytics to outthink and outexecute their competition by deploying business intelligence frameworks. This course explores the motivation and methodology that these organizations use to discover competitive advantages and adopt business processes to win in the marketplace. Students will learn how to use business intelligence tools and techniques to extract insights from data and how to use these insights to drive business process change for success. Credits: 4

How to visualize data and tell a compelling story is a powerful means of communicating with key stakeholders. This course introduces students to the core design considerations and communication strategies behind the creation of captivating data visualizations. Using industry data and intuitive point-and-click tools, students learn to capture the key data analytic takeaways using baselines, scorecards, dashboards and other widely used data summarization techniques. Credits: 4

The ever-expanding access and usage of data bring to light the importance of ethical conduct in relation to business. This course equips students to understand important moral dilemmas of business analytics and artificial intelligence. It is the goal of this course to highlight some of the key data-governance, compliance and usage-related ethical considerations and to provide learners with an opportunity to carefully examine and reflect on those important matters. Credits: 4

The field of fraud examination involves a broad range of professionals, from accountants and auditors to fraud investigators, loss prevention specialists, attorneys, educators, criminologists and business managers. This course provides students with an understanding of the roles each of these professions plays in the examination and prosecution of fraudulent activities. Simulated case studies based on actual fraud schemes will give students hands-on exposure to a variety of scams, including fraudulent financial reporting, money laundering and employee theft. Students will acquire many of the professional skills necessary to detect and investigate fraud and white-collar crime, including interviewing techniques. Finally, students will explore proactive approaches designed to minimize or prevent fraud. Credits: 4

With the proliferation of internet activity and the ease of online access, individuals, companies and governments face an ever-increasing risk of the theft and misuse of their data. This course will introduce students to the myriad of ways in which private data can be captured and stored, building students’ awareness of cyber threats and data breaches, along with malware, ransomware and other means by which cyber criminals access information for profit. The importance of strong IT general and application controls, good cyber hygiene, appropriate risk mitigation procedures and adequate employee training will be discussed. Methods for securing data will be presented, including firewalls and intrusion-detection systems. Finally, students will learn about evolving regulation and the role artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing may play in the future of cybersecurity. This course also focuses on the impact of AI on the digital ecosystem and delves into topics around generative AI. It explores the hierarchy of ethical and legal considerations around AI, identifies potential business opportunities around AI, and examines the impact AI has on cybersecurity as a whole. Credits: 4

This course introduces students to a variety of research resources. It provides an opportunity for students to develop and enhance their tax research skills. After developing the basics of tax research, the course investigates procedures used in dealing with the Internal Revenue Service with an emphasis on practitioner responsibilities. It reviews the organization of the IRS, tax filing requirements, audit appeal procedures, civil/criminal statutes, assessments and protests. It also examines a study of the value and moral judgments inherent in the field of taxation, including client confidentiality, disclosure of false or misleading information and advice counter to the law. Credits: 4

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the financial planning and wealth management area that integrates elements of financial and tax planning. You will learn what wealth management entails, from goal setting to budget planning to investment planning, along with assessing insurance and retirement needs, and how to assign and allocate assets to heirs. This course will introduce the skills that you need to succeed as a financial advisor and will walk you through the various planning services provided by wealth managers. Credits: 4

This advanced-level course delves into complex taxation topics, focusing on advanced entities, state and local taxation, and international tax issues. Students will explore the tax structures and regulations governing partnerships, corporations, and other business entities. The course also covers the nuances of state and local tax systems, including multistate taxation challenges, as well as key international tax considerations such as cross-border taxation, transfer pricing and tax treaties. Students will gain an in-depth understanding of the evolving tax landscape and its impact on businesses and individuals. Credits: 4

A solid understanding of accounting principles and financial statements is essential for managerial decision-making. This course provides students with a strong foundation in the principles of both financial and managerial accounting and their impact on business decisions. In addition to developing an understanding of financial accounting concepts and the accounting cycle, students will prepare, analyze and interpret primary financial statements (i.e., balance sheet, income statement and statement of cash flows). The course also exposes students to fundamental managerial accounting concepts, including cost allocation, cost-volume-profit analysis, operational budgeting and financial planning. Credits: 4

This is the first in a two-course sequence of core intermediate financial accounting courses examining the theory and practice of financial reporting. Students will develop an understanding of the principles involved in the preparation of general-purpose financial statements, primarily as applied to the asset side of the balance sheet, including measurement and disclosure issues and appropriate accounting transactions and methods. The course is designed to help students develop competencies in the major elements of financial accounting needed to make effective business decisions related to the assets of an organization. Credits: 4

This is the second in a two-course sequence of core intermediate financial accounting courses examining the theory and practice of financial reporting. Students will develop an understanding of the principles involved in the preparation of general-purpose financial statements primarily as applied to the liabilities and stockholders’ equity side of the balance sheet, including measurement and disclosure issues and appropriate accounting transactions and methods. The course is designed to help students develop competencies in the major elements of financial accounting needed to make effective business decisions related to liabilities and stockholders’ equity. Credits: 4

This course is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in auditing, assurance and related services. Students develop practical skills in the creation and conduct of audit procedures and the research of audit-related topics. In the context of a risk assessment model, the course provides a working knowledge of audit risk, sampling, tests of controls and substantive testing for each major audit area and the determination of the appropriate opinion based on audit findings. Internal auditing, fraud examination and the impact of evolving information technology on the audit process will also be discussed. Credits: 4

This course examines federal tax law as it applies to individuals. It emphasizes the determination of gross income, deductions and credits, as well as the identity of the taxable person, tax accounting and timing principles. It involves an overview of applicable tax statutes, regulations and rulings, and will provide an awareness of the history and tax policy considerations behind various Internal Revenue Code provisions. Students will assess the tax implications of decisions, develop an ability to recognize limitations in the tax law as it exists today and learn how to evaluate where additional research is necessary to adequately resolve tax issues. Finally, the course introduces flow-through entities such as partnerships, S-corporations and C-corporations. Credits: 4

This course provides students with an understanding of accounting as an information system that not only ensures the accountability of a business’s financial resources but also supports decision-making. In addition to developing a working knowledge of the structure of an accounting system, students also gain hands-on experience in the use of accounting software as a tool. Frameworks for analyzing internal control systems and understanding the structure and risks of IT-based systems are also covered. Credits: 2

Accountants with a familiarity with the principles of business law are better equipped to understand the legal environment in which a business operates. This course focuses on the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) and Common Law practices related to commercial transactions, particularly those relevant to accountants and auditors. Topics include contract law, the Uniform Commercial Code, agency law, partnerships, corporations and limited liability companies, securities regulations, bankruptcy, property laws and accountant/auditor liability. Credits: 2

In today’s business environment, it seems like the terms “big data” and “analytics” are everywhere. The accounting and auditing professions are being transformed by the incredible amounts of data that are captured and stored by companies’ accounting, marketing, operating and other systems. Accounting professionals must develop important skills to explore, manipulate and query data and use it effectively in answering business and accounting questions. This course introduces students to Tableau, relational databases, SQL, XBRL and Excel, and provides hands-on exposure in the use of each tool to analyze data, find exceptions and create visualizations that uncover and tell the stories underlying the data. Credits: 4

This course, through the use of cases, current event research and extensive discussion, covers a variety of ethical topics that are critical to accounting professionals. It examines white-collar crimes in various facets of the accounting industry, from issues in reporting in areas of auditing and taxation to embezzlement and fraud. Topics include: the importance of identifying ethical dilemmas and applying sound ethical decision-making, corporate governance and the role it plays in mitigating and resolving ethical issues, fraudulent financial reporting, the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct and the role of public accounting and the impact of ethical decisions on shareholders and stakeholders. It also integrates select federal tax crimes found in United States Code (U.S.C.) Title 26, including U.S.C. § 7201 (Tax Evasion) and U.S.C. § 7206(1) (False Return), and covers the legal, evidentiary and procedural challenges presented in the investigation and prosecution of tax and other white-collar crimes. Credits: 4

A solid understanding of accounting principles and financial statements is essential for managerial decision-making. This course provides students with a strong foundation in the principles of both financial and managerial accounting and their impact on business decisions. In addition to developing an understanding of financial accounting concepts and the accounting cycle, students will prepare, analyze and interpret primary financial statements (i.e., balance sheet, income statement and statement of cash flows). The course also exposes students to fundamental managerial accounting concepts, including cost allocation, cost-volume-profit analysis, operational budgeting and financial planning. Credits: 4

This is the first in a two-course sequence of core intermediate financial accounting courses examining the theory and practice of financial reporting. Students will develop an understanding of the principles involved in the preparation of general-purpose financial statements, primarily as applied to the asset side of the balance sheet, including measurement and disclosure issues and appropriate accounting transactions and methods. The course is designed to help students develop competencies in the major elements of financial accounting needed to make effective business decisions related to the assets of an organization. Credits: 4

This is the second in a two-course sequence of core intermediate financial accounting courses examining the theory and practice of financial reporting. Students will develop an understanding of the principles involved in the preparation of general-purpose financial statements primarily as applied to the liabilities and stockholders’ equity side of the balance sheet, including measurement and disclosure issues and appropriate accounting transactions and methods. The course is designed to help students develop competencies in the major elements of financial accounting needed to make effective business decisions related to liabilities and stockholders’ equity. Credits: 4

This course is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in auditing, assurance and related services. Students develop practical skills in the creation and conduct of audit procedures and the research of audit-related topics. In the context of a risk assessment model, the course provides a working knowledge of audit risk, sampling, tests of controls and substantive testing for each major audit area and the determination of the appropriate opinion based on audit findings. Internal auditing, fraud examination and the impact of evolving information technology on the audit process will also be discussed. Credits: 4

This course examines federal tax law as it applies to individuals. It emphasizes the determination of gross income, deductions and credits, as well as the identity of the taxable person, tax accounting and timing principles. It involves an overview of applicable tax statutes, regulations and rulings, and will provide an awareness of the history and tax policy considerations behind various Internal Revenue Code provisions. Students will assess the tax implications of decisions, develop an ability to recognize limitations in the tax law as it exists today and learn how to evaluate where additional research is necessary to adequately resolve tax issues. Finally, the course introduces flow-through entities such as partnerships, S-corporations and C-corporations. Credits: 4

This course provides students with an understanding of accounting as an information system that not only ensures the accountability of a business’s financial resources but also supports decision-making. In addition to developing a working knowledge of the structure of an accounting system, students also gain hands-on experience in the use of accounting software as a tool. Frameworks for analyzing internal control systems and understanding the structure and risks of IT-based systems are also covered. Credits: 2

Accountants with a familiarity with the principles of business law are better equipped to understand the legal environment in which a business operates. This course focuses on the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) and Common Law practices related to commercial transactions, particularly those relevant to accountants and auditors. Topics include contract law, the Uniform Commercial Code, agency law, partnerships, corporations and limited liability companies, securities regulations, bankruptcy, property laws and accountant/auditor liability. Credits: 2

The objective of this course is to introduce students to the basic principles and fundamental techniques in the context of financial analysis. The course introduces students to the basic principles of finance, critical financial terminology and key financial management indicators. Emphasis is placed on building a foundational knowledge of financial statement analysis and assessing your organization’s financial health with a focus on practical application and real-world situational analyses. It is a great overview for students to familiarize themselves with relevant finance concepts and provides a structured approach to facilitating the identification of future financing needs and measuring the impact and sustainability of growth. Credits: 4

Businesses are increasingly turning to data to evaluate and improve the efficacy of decisions. The ability to use data to inform the decision-making process is a critical skill for successful business professionals. This course introduces students to the growing role of evidence-based management and the manner in which data is used to answer high-level business questions. Students are exposed to real-world applications of analytics to solve problems in a variety of industries. Credits: 4

This course, through the use of cases, current event research and extensive discussion, covers a variety of ethical topics that are critical to accounting professionals. It examines white-collar crimes in various facets of the accounting industry, from issues in reporting in areas of auditing and taxation to embezzlement and fraud. Topics include: the importance of identifying ethical dilemmas and applying sound ethical decision-making, corporate governance and the role it plays in mitigating and resolving ethical issues, fraudulent financial reporting, the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct and the role of public accounting and the impact of ethical decisions on shareholders and stakeholders. It also integrates select federal tax crimes found in United States Code (U.S.C.) Title 26, including U.S.C. § 7201 (Tax Evasion) and U.S.C. § 7206(1) (False Return), and covers the legal, evidentiary and procedural challenges presented in the investigation and prosecution of tax and other white collar crimes. Credits: 4

Choose four credits in business analytics, finance, leadership, marketing or management.

Master the Skills of Accounting


The Merrimack Master of Science in Accounting provides you with the expertise needed to thrive in today’s dynamic financial landscape. Throughout the program, you’ll learn to:

Interpret financial data to ensure accurate reporting and regulatory compliance

Evaluate internal controls and risk management processes to enhance efficiency and safeguard assets

Apply auditing techniques to assess financial statements for accuracy and integrity

Provide data-driven insights to support informed financial decision-making for stakeholders

Customize Your MSA With an Industry-Focused Concentration


Merrimack’s MSA program offers three optional concentrations, allowing you to align your studies with your professional goals — or pursue a general MSA path without a concentration.

Courses within the concentrations are taught by industry-experienced faculty and are designed to reflect workforce demands and support relevant certifications.

  • Business Analytics
  • Forensic Accounting
  • Taxation

Alumni Success: Roles and Companies


The versatility of an M.S. in Accounting allows graduates to explore diverse career paths in areas such as public, corporate, government, non-profit accounting and more.

Merrimack’s MSA has nearly 200 graduates since its inception across a variety of industries and roles including:

Roles

  • Corporate controller
  • Finance reporting specialist
  • Internal audit specialist
  • Senior accountant
  • Senior accountant, treasury
  • Senior audit associate
  • Staff auditor
  • Tax accountant
  • Tax supervisor
  • VP of accounting

Companies

  • Amica Insurance
  • Baker Newman Noyes
  • Brooks Automation
  • Commonwealth of Massachusetts
  • Deloitte US
  • Grey, Grey, Grey LLP
  • KPMG
  • LGA
  • PwC
  • Tonneson and Co.

Student Support Resources

Students in the Girard School of Business benefit from a dedicated success team.

Support includes:

  • 1:1 advising and mentoring from the Girard School of Business graduate advising team
  • Access to LinkedIn Learning and Handshake
  • Professional development workshops
  • Math, writing and accessibility services through the Academic Success Center

Optional Executive Coaching Add-on Package

Unlock your full potential with executive coaching designed for career advancement.


  • Two executive coaching sessions focused on professional profile enhancements, including resume review, job search, elevator pitch and networking strategies (online, 50 minutes each)
Jill Huggett, Career Coach.

Jill Huggett, Career Coach

Jill Huggett is a certified professional career coach and certified professional resume writer for MCG Partners. Huggett also serves as a career coach with the Harvard Business School for their global network of alumni and current MBA students.


It’s Easy to Apply Online

A complete application includes:

  • Online application (no fee)
  • Official college transcripts from all institutions attended
  • Resume or LinkedIn profile
  • Interview or personal statement

GRE and GMAT scores are not required. Additional materials may be requested.

One year of relevant work experience is preferred (relevant work experience includes full-time work, internships and co-ops).

Key Dates and Deadlines

This program enrolls six times a year. Each term is eight weeks.

Term
International Application Deadline
Application Deadline
Classes Begin
Fall II
N/A
Friday, Oct. 10, 2025
Monday, Oct. 27, 2025
Spring I
Monday, Dec. 15, 2025
Monday, Jan. 5, 2026
Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026
Spring II
N/A
Monday, March 2, 2026
Monday, March 16, 2026
Fall II
International Application Deadline
N/A
Application Deadline
Friday, Oct. 10, 2025
Classes Begin
Monday, Oct. 27, 2025
Spring I
International Application Deadline
Monday, Dec. 15, 2025
Application Deadline
Monday, Jan. 5, 2026
Classes Begin
Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026
Spring II
International Application Deadline
N/A
Application Deadline
Monday, March 2, 2026
Classes Begin
Monday, March 16, 2026

M.S. Finance

EXPLORE PROGRAM

M.S. Business Analytics

EXPLORE PROGRAM

At Merrimack College, we’re proud of our long history of providing quality degrees to students entering the job market. Our faculty are more than just teachers. We are committed to helping you grow — academically, personally and spiritually — so that you may graduate as a confident, well-prepared citizen of the world.

  • Most Innovative Schools (No. 8)
  • Regional Universities North (No. 38)
  • Best Undergraduate Teaching (No. 20)
  • Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs (No. 82)
    (at schools where doctorate not offered)
  • Best Colleges for Veterans (No. 16)
  • Best Value Schools (No. 52)
  • Merrimack College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).

Tell me more about Merrimack’s programs.

By submitting this form, you agree to be contacted by Merrimack College and its partners via email, phone or text for program information and application guidance. You grant us permission to call or text you at this number, and that contact may be made using automated dialing systems and/or an artificial or prerecorded voice.

*This applies to new students entering the Spring I 2026 term. Does not roll over to subsequent terms. MBA excluded. Not combinable with other offers (i.e. Double Warrior, Fellowship, Partnership Discounts, etc). For CSC 6000, credit will be applied to their second course.