As the accounting field evolves, you may wonder whether a Master’s in Accounting (MS) or a Master’s of Science in Accounting Analytics is the right choice for you. UMass Lowell offers both degree programs, which are similar in several ways:
Both graduate programs:
- Satisfy the educational requirements to take the Certified Public Accounting (CPA) exam if you are not already CPA-certified
- Are housed in the highly respected, AACSB-accredited Manning School
- Offer flexible formats enabling you to complete all courses online or through a mix of online and on-campus offerings
- Will elevate your expertise and career prospects
However, the career paths available to those with a Master’s in Accounting versus a Master’s in Accounting Analytics can be quite distinct. Here’s a breakdown of what each program offers to help you determine the best fit for your goals, interests and professional aspirations.
The Master’s in Accounting: Deepen Your Accounting Expertise
UMass Lowell’s MS in Accounting allows you to customize your degree by choosing from multiple options:
- General Accounting
- Corporate Accounting Leadership
- International Business
All options will give you advanced knowledge in core accounting practices like financial reporting, auditing, taxation and cost management. This program has fewer STEM course requirements, but you may take several STEM courses as electives. If you are an international student, this program is not classified as a STEM-designated degree program. However, F1 student visas are available since many courses are available on campus.
You’ll build a solid foundation in high-level accounting practices that prepare you for public and corporate accounting roles. You’ll qualify for careers as a CPA, auditor, tax preparer, financial specialist and more.
The Master’s in Accounting Analytics: Where Accounting Meets Data
Do you want to understand financial data and how to extract insights and guide accounting strategy? If so, the MS in Accounting Analytics is for you.
This innovative program combines traditional accounting principles with analytics and data science. You’ll be able to explore topics like:
- Big data and accounting information systems
- Data visualization and predictive analytics
- Forensic accounting and fraud detection
- Technology applications in financial decision-making
Unlike the MS in Accounting, this program requires you to complete more STEM courses. It qualifies as a STEM-designated degree program. International students may apply for optional practical training in the U.S. for up to three years after graduation.
It’s a future-focused program that prepares you for roles at the intersection of accounting and data, where the demand is booming. This program may be ideal if you want to leverage technology to help clients make smarter financial decisions, uncover trends, detect fraud and help organizations adapt to a data-driven world.
Which Program Is Right for You?
Choosing between the MS in Accounting and the MS in Accounting Analytics comes down to your career goals. If you’re drawn to traditional accounting or are interested in International Business or Corporate Accounting Leadership, the Master’s in Accounting provides an ideal pathway.
If you’re passionate about leveraging data and technology to solve financial problems and want to future-proof your skills in a tech-driven field, the Master’s in Accounting Analytics opens the door to some of the fastest-growing areas in business and finance.
Take the Next Step
No matter which program you choose, you’ll join a dynamic community of students and faculty at UMass Lowell’s highly ranked Manning School of Business. Both degrees offer you flexibility, practical learning and a network that will support your career long after graduation.
Explore both programs today and envision where your next step can take you:
Master of Science in Accounting
Master of Science in Accounting Analytics