M.S. in Accounting
There’s a reason our graduates’ first-time CPA exam pass rate is almost 30% higher than the national average. Our rigorous MSA program cultivates in-depth understanding of how accounting affects organizations and society while strengthening necessary analytical skills. Courses focus on practical concepts, and students learn from accomplished faculty who possess valuable industry experience.
Students with and without accounting backgrounds are encouraged to apply to the MSA program. Our dedicated academic advisors will work with students to design individualized course paths and ensure the successful completion of degree requirements.
Questions about graduate admissions or programs? Email us or call us at 617-552-3920.
182,000+
Boston College Alumni
41,000+
Carroll School Alumni
Tuition and Aid
An MSA from the Carroll School is an excellent investment in your future. We offer merit-based scholarships and financial assistance to qualified applicants. Loan and work study programs are also available.
Program Curriculum
All students have 12 months to complete the program. Students begin the program in September and complete their degree requirements in May or August, depending upon individual course load. Once admitted, students receive a personalized course worksheet, which outlines their individual course plan. Specific course plans take into account each student’s prior academic experience. Below are examples of what an individualized course plan might look like.
Accounting Majors
| Core Courses | Credits |
|---|---|
| Taxes and Management Decisions | 3 |
| Financial Statement Analysis | 3 |
| Assurance and Consulting Services | 3 |
| Elective Courses* | Credits |
| Accounting Electives (3) | 9 |
| Non-Accounting Electives (4) | 12 |
| Total Credit Hours/Courses | 30/10 |
Non-Accounting Majors
| Business Courses | Credits |
| Economics/Micro-Economics | 3 |
| Financial Management | 3 |
| Statistics | 3 |
| Business Law (U.S. based) | 3 |
| Information Systems | 3 |
| Accounting Courses | Credits |
| Financial Accounting Practice I | 3 |
| Financial Accounting Practice II | 3 |
| Internal Cost Management and Controls | 3 |
| Federal Taxation (U.S. based) | 3 |
| Financial Auditing (U.S. based) | 3 |
| Core Courses | Credits |
| Taxes and Management Decisions | 3 |
| Financial Statement Analysis | 3 |
| Assurance and Consulting Services | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours/Courses | 39/13 |
Course information: Look up course information and schedules.
The CPA Exam: If you are interested in taking the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam, required courses vary by state. For specific CPA requirements by state, please visit the "Exams" section of the NASBA website.
Community Service: The Carroll School has a proud tradition of service to our community. In keeping with that tradition and with our Jesuit heritage, all Carroll School graduate students must fulfill a requirement to serve others through meaningful work as volunteers. Read our service guidlines.
MSA Class Profile
Enrollment
| Total Class Size | 43 |
| Admit Rate |
61% |
Academic Profile
| Average GMAT Score | 658 |
| GMAT Score 80th Percentile Range | 608-720 |
| Average Undergraduate GPA | 3.61 |
| Women | 72% |
| AHANA* | 2% |
| International | 86% |
Undergraduate Majors
| Accounting | 51% |
| Business | 9% |
| Economics | 5% |
| Finance | 9% |
| Formal, Physical, and Life Sciences |
5% |
| Double Major | 19% |
| Other | 2% |
This data represents students who enrolled in the MSA Program in Summer and Fall 2019.
*African-American, Hispanic, Asian and Native American.
“What I found to be truly rewarding at Boston College was the opportunity to gain real-world business perspectives and connect with incredible professors and colleagues.”
Jenny Penafiel (MSA ’18)
Tax Consultant, Global Employer Services, Deloitte
“The faculty sincerely cares about their students, helping them in any way possible whether with coursework or job searches. The curriculum is built in a way that you can gain valuable knowledge in different areas of business while still concentrating on accounting and preparing for the CPA exam.”
Nolan Dilorio (MSA ’17)
Financial Services Office Tax Associate, EY