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Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is one of the most sought-after profiles for accountants. Research claims that a CPA in the US could earn an average salary between USD70,235 and USD461,014.
However, succeeding at the CPA test is challenging for most aspirants—even more so considering the constant evolution of the field. In today’s data-rich world, accounting analytics is decidedly gaining more prominence.
Traditionally, accountants have worked with data in the form of numbers related to taxes, revenues, and expenditures. However, with the recent emergence of Big Data and analytics tools, accounting firms are incorporating such modern technologies into their business models.
With the introduction of accounting analytics, professionals in the field are now leveraging data science technologies to uncover new insights and patterns in finance as well as perform predictive analysis, increase efficiency, and manage risks.
Hence, to become a certified public accountant, one must have the right skill set that the industry demands and for this, undertaking the right course is key.
Also, please note that the candidates are required to have a bachelor’s degree in accounting to be eligible for this programme.
Why take up the MSAA programme?
The MSAA programme from the University of Louisville is STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics)-designated and offers the essential tools, resources, and support to develop and enhance the candidates’ accounting skill set. In addition, as a STEM-Designated program, the MSAA provides international students with up to THREE YEARS of post-completion work authorisation in the USA.
While it helps you achieve the right skill set in accounting analytics, the programme also comprehensively covers the fields of accounting, auditing, and financial reporting, which are necessary for the CPA test.
The Master in Accountancy and Analytics programme offered by the University of Louisville was globally ranked #27 by Best Masters 2022. The MSAA programme offered by the university is the same but with a keener emphasis on the analytics skills needed to lead in the data-driven requirements of the current accounting industry.
What does the programme offer?
The Master of Science in Accountancy and Analytics is a 34-credit hour cohort-based programme. Graduates of the programme may also receive the Graduate Certificate in Managerial Analytics. This graduate certificate is a twelve (12) credit hour certificate that provides business professionals with the skills to thrive in a data-driven environment.
This programme is designed to:
● Equip graduates with technical accounting knowledge of GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles).
● Prepare graduates to assume leadership positions in the professional practice of accounting as Certified Public Accountants.
● Provide graduates with functional knowledge of data science from a managerial perspective.
● Impart graduates with a programmatic or professional understanding of data results effectively, especially in terms of data visualisation and data storytelling.
While in the programme, the candidates get unlimited access to Becker CPA or CMA Review software with the guided study. This could go a long way in helping them prepare for the CPA or CMA test. Becker CPA or CMA Review software is one of the topmost programmes in the market to help candidates prepare for the CPA or the CMA test.
Further, the MSAA programme includes a competitive 11-month paid internship, which helps you test your knowledge and skills in a real-life scenario. It also includes a 10-day international study trip or an online global-learning course. In addition, candidates can network with professionals and leaders in public accounting and other industries.
How to apply?
Visit the University website, create an application account, and then visit the College of Business graduate programs website to apply for the programme.
Candidates are required to attach two letters of recommendation, which should speak about the candidate’s character, academic aptitude, and other academic and professional achievements. The candidate must also provide the name and email address of the recommending persons.
Further, candidates must provide a personal statement. The personal statement is a one to a two-page document describing their interest in the University of Louisville’s MSAA programme. The document must define why the candidate has selected the University of Louisville, their short-term and long-term goals, and any additional information they feel is relevant.
The next steps are to provide their professional resume and official college transcripts from all colleges attended. No GMAT is required. Candidates with GMAT or GRE scores are welcome to provide them to strengthen their application. Scores of 700+ will be reviewed for additional scholarship consideration.
