UAB’s Master of Accounting program curriculum has two areas of focus: CPA Preparation and Accounting Information Systems.
CPA Preparation
A student following this focus of study is interested in becoming a CPA and wants to pursue a career in public accounting or a higher-level accounting or auditing position in a corporate, not-for-profit, or government organization. CPA preparation is formally incorporated in the program. Graduate from UAB, passing all four sections of the CPA exam and be eligible to become a Certified Public Accountant.
Accounting Information Systems
A student following this focus of study typically pursues an accounting or auditing position in a corporate, not-for-profit, or government organization with plans to advance in accounting or move to a different role in the organization. The curriculum blends advanced accounting courses with study in one of three areas of information systems:
- Business Analytics
- Cybersecurity
- IT Management
Students earn a graduate certificate in selected area of information systems in addition to a Master of Accounting degree and are still able to pursue a CPA license later if they choose.
How to Match a Focus to Your Career Goals
CPA Preparation
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I have an undergraduate degree in accounting. I want to pursue a MAc degree and obtain my CPA license.
- Enroll in our MAc program following the CPA Preparation focus of study.
- Apply for a scholarship for Becker study materials, if needed.
- Graduate from UAB with a MAc degree, pass all four sections of the CPA exam, and be eligible to become a Certified Public Accountant.*
*Our degree plans are structured to meet the requirements to become a CPA in Alabama. Although most states have very similar requirement, if you desire to become a CPA in a different location, please check by state for CPA requirements and reach out to us with any questions.
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I have a business (non-accounting) OR a non-business undergraduate degree. I want to pursue a MAc and obtain my CPA license.
- Enroll in our Accounting Bridge Certificate program and take additional business-related courses for the foundational knowledge in accounting and business. The need for additional business-related courses varies depending on the state where you intend to apply for the CPA exam. Our MAc program director/advisor can advise you on these requirements.
- Transition into the MAc program following the CPA Preparation focus of study.
- Apply for a scholarship for Becker study materials, if needed.
- Graduate from UAB with a MAc degree, pass all four sections of the CPA exam, and be eligible to become a Certified Public Accountant.*
*Our degree plans are structured to meet the requirements to become a CPA in Alabama. Although most states have very similar requirement, if you desire to become a CPA in a different location, please check by state for CPA requirements and reach out to us with any questions.
Accounting Information Systems
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I have an undergraduate degree in accounting. I want to pursue a MAc degree but do not plan to obtain my CPA license at this time.
- Enroll in our MAc program following the Accounting Information Systems course of study.
- Select your electives in one of the following areas – Business Analytics, Cybersecurity, or IT Management – and receive a graduate certificate upon graduation, along with your MAc.
- Graduate from UAB with a MAc degree and a graduate certificate.
-
I have a business (non-accounting) OR a non-business undergraduate degree. I want to pursue a MAc degree but do not plan to obtain my CPA license at this time.
- Enroll in our Accounting Bridge Certificate program to obtain a foundation in accounting.
- Transition into our MAc program following the Accounting Information Systems focus of study.
- Select your electives in one of the following areas – Business Analytics, Cybersecurity, or IT Management – and receive a graduate certificate upon graduation, along with your MAc.
- Graduate from UAB with a MAc degree and a graduate certificate.
