Job applicants with strong credentials from accredited accounting degree programs in Texas are in a good position to find competitive employment in the Lone Star State. Outpacing the rest of the country, the current Texan economy is strong across business and industry sectors, creating more new jobs than any other state. Consequently, qualified accountants are also in demand since every business needs accountancy experts to help financial operations run smoothly. In response, post-secondary schools in Texas are expanding graduate accounting programs to provide the state with future accountancy professionals who can be leaders across business platforms.

Tarleton State University

College of Business Administration

Earning a diploma from Tarleton means benefiting from effective teaching, scholarship, research, experiential learning and service opportunities to enjoy cutting-edge careers that contribute to society in a meaningful way. The 115-year old school offers over 91 programs of study, some of the most popular being housed in the College of Business Administration, which focuses on providing relevant, innovative programs for tomorrow’s business leaders. The Master of Accounting degree furthers career goals for accountancy professionals while providing the advanced skills and clock hours required to sit for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam.

Related Resource: How Much Does a CPA Make?

Master of Accounting (MAcc)

Candidates for the MAcc degree must have a bachelor’s in accounting to enroll in the 30-credit hour graduate program. Instruction emphasizes practical application of accounting principles which culminate in the technical proficiency and leadership skills industry employers seek in qualified accountants. The curriculum includes seven advanced courses covering accounting theory, federal income tax, financial statement analysis, government and not-for-profit practices,research methods, and professional business ethics, and three advanced courses of choice from management, cost control, information systems, additional federal tax practices, health care finance, or auditing, and completion of an approved elective.

Accreditation

  • Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (COC-SACS)
  • Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)

Contacts
Tarleton State University
College of Business Administration
Business Building, Room 103
Jodie Dearing, Graduate Program Manager
Stephenville, Texas 76402
Phone: (254) 968-9055
Email: jdearing@tarleton.edu
Website: http://www.tarleton.edu/COBAWEB/afe/graduate.html

Texas A&M University

Mays Business School

Since becoming Texas’ first public institution of higher learning in 1876, TAMU has nurtured a premier learning environment for a diverse student population. Instructional programs continue to evolve as evidenced by the development of one of the most recognized accredited accounting degree programs in Texas. TAMU frequently ranks at the top of national publications such as Finance Times, U.S. News & World Report, and Bloomberg Businessweek for affordability, educational excellence and preparation of its students for the work force. Additionally, surveys taken since 2011 in publications like the New York Times and The Wall Street Journal, indicate that business leaders place TAMU in the top tier of schools for considering graduate recruits.

Master of Science in Accounting

A non-thesis program, this master’s spans 37-39 credit hours of instruction depending on which track candidates take. The basic program pairs experiential learning opportunities with core instruction of advanced accounting principles and specialization electives. Candidates must have an undergraduate degree in accounting or approved background experience. Coursework in either track leads to completion of the credit hours required to sit for taking the CPA exam.

  • Assurance Services, Information Management Track
    The focus of this track hones in on written and oral communication skills necessary for consultative services. The curriculum emphasizes advanced accounting principles and financial management in areas such as corporate taxes, auditing, information systems, international practices, ethics and business law.
  • Tax Consulting, Financial Planning Track
    This track emphasizes the important relationship between taxation and business operations. Graduates learn the skills to assess tax problems, conduct research with appropriate databases and interpret the tax code efficiently. Coursework highlights study of tax management, partnerships, real estate transactions, corporate taxes, international tax laws, financial accounting and management, business law and ethics.

Accreditation

  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC)
  • Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

Contacts
Texas A&M University
Mays Business School
4113 TAMU
College Station, Texas 77843
Terri Zimmerman
MS Accounting adviser
Phone: (979) 845-9679
Email: tzimmerman@mays.tamu.edu
Website: http://mays.tamu.edu/degrees-and-majors/masters/acct-ms/

Texas Christian University

Neeley School of Business

TCU believes in helping students learn to adapt to rapidly changing societal and economic demands that affect careers and communities. To that end, the university’s Neeley School of Business has created programs that rank highly in assessments of top educational experiences from publications such as Bloomberg Businessweek, The Economist, and U.S. News & World Report. Students from around the world enroll to participate in experiential studies that prepare them for fast-paced jobs in business and accounting careers.

Master of Accounting (MAc)

Students may enter this program with credentials from Neeley’s undergraduate Professional Program in Accounting or with approved bachelor’s coursework from another institution. The master’s accountancy curriculum covers 30 credit hours with focus on critical thinking skills and professional development competencies. Full-time students can complete this master’s in two semesters and the program provides the necessary hours to qualify for taking the CPA exam.

Students have the option to concentrate in one of three areas: Taxation, Assurance Services, Financial Reporting and Valuation. All candidates take 18 credits of advance core business classes and 12 hours from the area of concentration and approved electives. MAc graduates find competitive employment in a number of business settings, including: banks, major corporations, financial investment groups, commercial industries, tax preparation services, government agencies and non-profit organizations.

Accreditation

  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC)
  • Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

Contacts
Neeley School of Business at TCU
Dan Rogers Hall, Room 340
2900 Lubbock
Fort Worth, Texas 76109
Phone: (817) 257-7223
Email: PPAccounting@tcu.edu
Website: http://www.neeley.tcu.edu/Academics/Master_of_Accounting/MAc_Curriculum_and_Pre-Requisites.aspx

Texas State University

McCoy Graduate School of Business

Home to more than 35,000 students, TSU stands out as one of Texas’ most diverse universities. Academic instruction occurs at two campus locations: San Marcos and at Round Rock, north of Austin. Program foundations include technology, research and innovative practice design with students having multiple opportunities for applying learned skills in realistic work settings. On 2015 rankings, the university is #222 out of 892 colleges as rated by Niche and comes in at #50 for regional universities in the West according to U.S. News & World Report. Additionally, TSU’s business college partners with Bloomberg Businessweek to promote professionalism among students and encourage their exploration of current business trends.

Master of Accountancy (MAcy)

Candidates with a broad background in accounting theory and practice are good fits for this master’s program, which emphasizes the ethical implications of financial reporting and auditing procedures. Graduates with this degree can take the CPA exam and begin careers as tax professionals, auditors, financial planners, business consultants, financial planners, and controllers. Coursework covers 33 credits of core and elective requirements covering: taxation, auditing, financial information systems, professionalism and ethics, and accounting research.

Master of Science in Accounting and Information Technology (MSAIT)

This technology-oriented degree focuses on management techniques for accounting information systems and provides in-depth study of IT auditing, controls, governance, and compliance issues. Instruction delivery comes from the department of Accounting and the Computer Information Systems and Quantitative Methods Department. The 30 credit curriculum is comprised of advanced accounting and business studies and information technology classes focused on database management and information security.

Accreditation

  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC)
  • Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

Contacts
Texas State University
McCoy College of Business Administration
Graduate Programs – Department of Accounting
601 University Drive
McCoy Hall #530
San Marcos, Texas 78666
Laurie Brown, Adviser
Phone: (512) 245-2566
Email: laurie.brown@txstate.edu
Websites:

Texas Tech University

Rawls College of Business, Graduate School

The hallmarks of a Texas Tech education are nationally recognized academic instruction combined with cutting-edge research foundations that distinguish graduates from the rest of the pack. Personalized degrees and experiential learning opportunities further promote students who can competitively compete for jobs in the global marketplace. TTU currently stands at #132 for national rankings in 2015 as reported in U.S. News & World Report.

Master of Science in Business — Accounting Audit (MSA)

Based on the business and accounting credits of incoming students, this non-thesis, 36-credit curriculum for the MSA takes one to two years to complete. Program success depends upon developing conceptual skills, technical abilities, oral and written communication, and analytical research skills to advanced accountancy competency levels. Graduates with this degree find successful employment in public, private, government and non-profit settings. In addition to completing rigorous advanced accountancy studies, students also complete an internship working with business professionals. Candidates can personalize their degree by focusing study in Auditing and Financial Reporting or Taxation.

Accreditation

  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC)
  • Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
  • Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)

Contacts
Texas Tech University
Graduate School
Administration Building 328
P.O. Box 42101
Lubbock, Texas 79409
Dr. Ralph Viator
Phone: (806) 834-0549
Email: ralph.viator@ttu.edu
Website:http://www.depts.ttu.edu/gradschool/DegreePrograms/degree_detailed.php?name=QnVzaW5lc3MgLSBBY2NvdW50aW5nIEF1ZGl0%20&%20degree_name=TWFzdGVyIG9mIFNjaWVuY2U=%20&%20degree_code=TVM=

The University of Texas at Austin

McCombs School of Business

Students and graduates from UT at Austin have something to shout about: Times Higher Education, a London-based journal, ranks the university among the best schools world-wide coming in at #28 internationally and at #6 for public universities in the United States. This comes as no surprise to UT’s staff and student body, who uphold the school’s mission of excellence in achievement, research and public service to fulfill meaningful careers. Furthermore, the Master in Professional Accounting has garnered the top spot for graduate accounting programs in the country according to U.S. News & World Report 2015 rankings.

Master in Professional Accounting (MPA)

The MPA core program covers 36 credits for candidates with a business or accounting undergraduate degree and up to 42 credits for those coming from other academic disciplines. Program length varies accordingly between 18-24 months for completion and prepares students to sit for the CPA exam. The program has a strong curriculum designed to challenge candidates to apply innovative solutions to solve real-world business problems. Students have unique opportunities for participation in the Distinguished Speaker Lyceum and placement in global business internships. Curriculum studies highlight: financial accounting and management practices, managerial accounting, national and international business law, accounting analysis and standards, assurance services, taxation principles, and information technology for accounting and control.

Accreditation

  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC)
  • Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

Contacts
The University of Texas at Austin
McCombs School of Business
1 University Station, B6000
Austin, Texas 78712
Jim Franklin, Director MPA Program
Phone: (512) 471-3527
Email: jim.franklin@mccombs.utexas.edu
Website: http://www.mccombs.utexas.edu/MPA/Prospective-Students/Traditional-MPA

The University of Texas at El Paso

College of Business Administration

The University of Texas at El Paso in an inclusive educational institution, reaching out to students from all backgrounds to achieve their career goals. This outreach is attested to by the online media company HispanicBusiness.com, which notes UTEP’s College of Business Administration and College of Engineering as being among the best in the country for Hispanics. Furthermore, the College of Business Administration builds upon community relationships to provide students with the experiential learning necessary to become leaders in global business and accounting careers.

Master of Accountancy (MAcc)

As with other accredited accounting degree programs in Texas, UTEP’s MAcc delivers a relevant, rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates for professional certification and competitive careers in accountancy. Program entry is based on prerequisite courses from accredited undergraduate degree programs. Some candidates may need to take additional coursework prior to officially starting master’s level work. Studies for the 30 credit MAcc degree encompass:

  • 18 credits in accounting geared towards the candidates concentration.
  • 6 credits in advanced business studies.
  • 3 credits in advanced business strategies.
  • 3 credits in organizational communication.

The Master of Accountancy program holds classes in the evening to accommodate working professionals. Students can opt to personalize the degree in either Taxation or Financial Accounting and Auditing.

Accreditation

  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC)
  • Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

Contacts
University of Texas at El Paso
College of Business Administration
500 W. University Avenue
Business Administration Building, Room 208
El Paso, Texas 79902
Marjorie A. Marinovic CPA, MAcc
Graduate Advisor
Phone: (915) 747-7765
Email: mamarinovic@utep.edu
Website: http://business.utep.edu/degrees/MACC/default.aspx

The University of Texas at San Antonio

College of Business

As part of the Texas university system, UTSA has three campuses in and around the city to provide multiple venues for collaboration with area industries that support experiential learning. Out of 1,000 universities, The Center for World University Rankings placed UTSA at #256 world-wide and at #103 for universities in the United States. The business college offers two ways to earn a Master of Accountancy: as a stand-alone program, or as part of a five-year program that allows for simultaneous completion of undergraduate and graduate degrees in the field. Both programs qualify graduates to sit for the CPA exam.

Professional Accounting Program (BBA and MACY)

Approved undergraduates earning a Bachelor of Business Administration may enter the Master of Accountancy program during their third year of study and go on to complete requirements for both degrees. Students must finish 120 credits of undergraduate study in general education and business requirements before being declared a master’s candidate. This program spreads out the 150 clock hours required for the CPA over the fourth and fifth years which is an advantage for many students.

Master of Accountancy (MACY)

Candidates entering the accountancy master’s program must hold an accredited bachelor’s degree from any field of study. For degree-holders from other disciplines, additional accounting coursework may be required. The 30-credit MACY curriculum encompasses studies in: managerial and financial accounting; focus coursework in either auditing services, managerial accounting, taxation or financial accounting; approved electives and completion of a capstone project.

Accreditation

  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC)
  • Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

Contacts
The University of Texas at San Antonio
College of Business
One UTSA Circle
San Antonio, Texas 78249
Phone; (210) 458-4331
Email: GraduateStudies@utsa.edu
Website:

The University of Texas—Pan American

College of Business Administration

Located in the beautiful Rio Grande Valley, UTPA has a special calling as a Hispanic-serving, educational institution. It offers all levels of degree programs and has been consistently ranked among the best top schools for Hispanics in the country, including a #4 ranking in the 2014 edition of The Hispanic Outlook in Higher Education. Students with an interest in accounting can pursue graduate degrees in one of two programs geared towards personal strengths and career ambitions. Both programs prepare graduates for taking the CPA exam.

Master of Accountancy (MACC)

This 36-credit program specializes in auditing and may be completed by those with a business or accounting bachelor’s in under two years. To accommodate a variety of work and family schedules, the MACC may be conducted online with the exception of 15 accounting hours that the state of Texas requires be completed in face-to-face settings. Coursework for the curriculum develops advanced competencies in:

  • Financial reporting and fraud examinations.
  • Ethics and legal issues.
  • Attestation and auditing.
  • National and international taxation principles.
  • Accounting practices that enhance decision-making.

Master of Science in Accounting (MSA)

The MSA also requires completion of 36 credits and can be completed in a little under two years for those with business or accounting backgrounds. The focus of the MSA is taxation and the curriculum highlights advanced studies in:

  • Tax topics and auditing practices.
  • Accounting theory.
  • Estates, trusts, and wealth transfers.
  • Managerial accounting.
  • Information technology and tax research.
  • Legal environments and professional ethics.
  • International taxation.

Accreditation

  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC)
  • Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

Contacts
The University of Texas-Pan American
College of Business Adminstration, BUSA 220
1201 West University Drive
Edinburg, Texas 78539
Dr. Andrew Anabila
Program Director
Phone: (956) 665-8084
Email: anabilaaa@utpa.edu
Websites:

Trinity University

Trinity University offers small, personalized programs to accommodate individual student needs for learning. Trinity has expanded its strong academic traditions by building state-of-the art facilities to enhance educational programs in all disciplines. The school lands at #1 for western regional universities in 2015 according to U.S. News & World Report and also ranks highly for regional and national colleges as reported by Forbes magazine. The graduate accounting program is also highly regarded for preparing students to pass the CPA exam and boasts a 100% job placement rate.

Master of Science in Accounting

The M.S. in Accounting is the culmination of a five-year program that earns a bachelor’s and master’s in accounting simultaneously. Students begin master’s level courses in their junior year, which helps to spread out the 150 hours required for CPA exam eligibility. Students with accredited bachelor’s from other accounting programs may also enter the M.S. in Accounting program. Advanced studies cover 30 credits in:

  • Accounting theory and finance.
  • Accounting information systems.
  • Managerial accounting, auditing and federal taxation.
  • Financial and non-profit accounting.
  • International accounting.
  • Legal, ethical and professional responsibilities.
  • Conflict management.

Accreditation

  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC)
  • Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

Contacts
Trinity University
School of Business
Chapman Center, Room 300
One Trinity Place
San Antonio, Texas 7821
Linda B. Specht, Director
Accounting Program
Phone: (210) 999-7348
Email: lspecht@trinity.edu
Website: http://new.trinity.edu/academics/departments/school-business/graduate-accounting-program

To meet the needs of business and industry, graduate accountancy programs in Texas are providing the rigorous academic training required of accountants for the 21st century workplace. Accounting graduates will gain the skills and competencies to take certification exams and demonstrate leadership on the job. At the same time, aspiring accountants will find a wealth of work opportunities across diverse business settings and be assured of career stability with advancement opportunities. For those who are ready to pursue a professional accountancy career, accredited accounting degree programs in Texas can make this goal a reality.”