How Long to Get a Masters Degree in Accounting?

A Master’s degree in accounting (MAcc or MSA) provides advanced academic study. This specialized education deepens understanding of accounting principles, financial reporting, auditing, taxation, and business law. It is beneficial for individuals aiming to meet the 150 semester hours of education required for Certified Public Accountant (CPA) licensure in many states. The time to complete a Master’s in Accounting varies based on individual circumstances and program structures.

Standard Program Durations

The duration of a Master’s in Accounting program depends on enrollment status (full-time or part-time) and program design. Full-time MAcc programs typically require 12 to 18 months to complete, often encompassing 30 to 36 credit hours. Some intensive full-time programs can be completed in 8 to 10 months, structured over two semesters with summer sessions. Students in these programs usually take a heavier course load, often 9 to 12 credit hours per semester, allowing for quicker completion.

Part-time programs offer flexibility for individuals balancing education with professional or personal commitments. These programs typically range from 24 to 36 months, though some students may extend their studies up to four years. Part-time students typically enroll in a reduced course load, often 3 to 6 credit hours per semester. Accelerated programs are also available, which can be completed in less than a year for students with an undergraduate accounting degree. Some accelerated options allow students to begin graduate coursework during their senior year, enabling them to earn both degrees in a combined five years.

Key Determinants of Program Length

Several factors beyond enrollment status influence the time to earn a Master’s in Accounting. A student’s study load directly impacts completion speed; full-time students finish faster than part-time students. Programs often cap the number of years students have to complete their degree, ranging from three to six years, providing a maximum timeframe.

The program format (online, on-campus, or hybrid) also affects pacing. Online programs offer flexibility in course scheduling, allowing students to set their own pace or choose from multiple start dates. Some programs are cohort-based, where students progress on a fixed timeline, while others offer flexible enrollment. The university’s academic calendar, such as semester or quarter systems, can influence total duration due to varying term lengths. Additionally, some Master’s in Accounting programs may require internships, which can extend the academic timeline.

Prerequisite Coursework and Its Impact

A significant factor that can extend the duration of a Master’s in Accounting program, particularly for individuals without a prior undergraduate degree in accounting, is the requirement for prerequisite coursework. Many MAcc and MSA programs mandate specific foundational accounting and business courses. These typically include subjects like financial accounting, managerial accounting, intermediate accounting, and taxation.

Students who earned their bachelor’s degree in a field other than accounting will generally need to complete these prerequisite courses. This can be done before beginning the Master’s program or concurrently during initial stages of graduate study. Fulfilling these foundational requirements can add anywhere from six months to 1.5 years to the overall educational journey, depending on the number of courses and the student’s pace. Some universities offer “bridge” programs or structured prerequisite tracks designed to help non-accounting majors efficiently complete these courses, though they still contribute to the total time spent in higher education. These prerequisite courses generally do not count towards the credit hours required for the Master’s degree itself, but they are necessary to build the foundational knowledge for advanced accounting studies.