Accounting with Data Analytics MS

Master accounting in a data-driven world.

Accounting student wearing black suit and turtleneck.

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About the Program

Move your accounting career forward with the skills today’s employers expect. UMass Boston's Master of Science in Accounting with Data Analytics (MSA) program equips you with advanced accounting knowledge and analytical skills for a world shaped by AI and Big Data. Learn from experienced faculty and apply your skills through internships and real-world case studies. This STEM-designated program trains you to analyze accounting and financial data, preparing you for careers in public, corporate, and government accounting. The Accounting with Data Analytics MS program is offered in online, in-person, and hybrid formats, and international students may qualify for up to three years of optional practical training giving added flexibility for job searching and career opportunities.

Here’s your chance to:

Master the technical and functional skills needed for professional accounting careers.
Build ethical judgment and analytical expertise to solve complex problems with integrity.
Develop communication, teamwork, and leadership skills to thrive in collaborative, professional environments.

of Accounting with Data Analytics MS alumni are employed in the field

UMass Boston Survey Data, 2020-2022

industry partners offering networking, internships, and real-world opportunities

University Survey, 2025

median annual salary for accounting professionals with a master's degree

Research.com, 2023

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Attend the Online Graduate Open House on October 7!

Join us for an online open house to get your questions answered about graduate programs and the admissions process. Meet admissions staff, financial aid professionals, faculty, and academic advisors from various graduate programs. Learn more about your journey at UMass Boston.

Graduate students smiling while sitting at table and taking notes with laptops and tablets.

Career Possibilities

Move your career forward and gain the knowledge and credentials needed to earn professional certifications including CPA, CMA, CISA, and CIA. You will be ready for a wide range of accounting careers in public, corporate, government, and other sectors.

Here’s where this degree can take you:

Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
Corporate Accountant
Tax Accountant
Internal Auditor
Financial Analyst
Forensic Accountant
Government Accountant
Nonprofit Accountant

Example Employers of Program Graduates

UMass Boston Accounting with Data Analytics MS alumni launch careers at the “Big 4” accounting firms, as well as top companies in Boston and across the country, including:

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Attend an Information Session

Join an upcoming information session to learn more about Accounting with Data Analytics MS and the application process.

Student Stories

During my time at UMass Boston, I was able to build a strong foundation in accounting through rigorous coursework in preparation for the CPA. By taking a variety of advanced courses, I deepened my academic interest in accounting and research. With the guidance and support of my professors, I also had the opportunity to engage in seminars and further explore research-oriented thinking.

Kwonhee L., ’26

The MSA program gave me the opportunity to gain practical, real-world accounting knowledge. It prepared me to be more confident and competitive in the job market. With the strong foundation from the MSA program, I was able to pass all 4 CPA exams and become licensed after two years of working at a Big Four Firm.

Qingna Z., ’23

The faculty in the UMass Boston MSA program brought real-world examples into the classroom, making the courses challenging but relevant. The program prepared me for the CPA exam and my career in public accounting.

Spencer P., ’22

My experience in the MSA program at UMass Boston was a really important part of my journey. It felt like a clear and guided path that helped me understand what I wanted and led me to my role at KPMG. Some classes were especially interesting, and professors truly stood out for being open, supportive, and very knowledgeable in their fields. I learned how much the right experiences and connections can shape your direction—sometimes the right guidance at the right moment makes all the difference.

Kamila M., ’23

Plan Your Education

How to Apply

Deadlines:

Fall Deadline: June 15
Spring Deadline: December 1

Application Fee: The nonrefundable application fee is $75. UMass Boston alumni and current students that plan to complete degree requirements prior to graduate enrollment can submit the application without paying the application fee.

Applicants must meet general graduate admission requirements in addition to the program-specific requirements.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Apply as a Graduate Student

Financing Your Education

Estimate Your Program Cost: Get a feel for your expected program costs using the Graduate Program Cost Calculator.

Program Cost Information: For more detailed information on costs, visit the Bursar's website to learn more about Regular Session Tuition & Fees for in person courses and Special Price Tuition & Fees for online courses.

Apply for Financial Aid

Program Details

Accounting MS Application Requirements

Online application and application fee
GRE/GMAT not required
Current résumé highlighting professional and academic experience
Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended (United States bachelor's or equivalent required)
Two (2) letters of recommendation from professional or academic references
- Applicants must provide the name and email address for (2) references as part of the online application. Those references will receive an email notification directing them to a secure site to submit their recommendation. If references prefer to type a traditional letter, it should be sent as a PDF attachment referencing the applicant's name, student ID number, and program of interest to GADocs@umb.edu.
Statement of intent essay explaining your goals and reasons for applying to the program
International applicants: additional documentation required

Curriculum

Required Courses (21 Credits)

MBA AF 611, MBA AF 612, MBA AF 613, and MBAMGT 664 may be substituted with an approved three-credit graduate course in the list of Electives below.

MBA AF 611 - Financial Accounting and Reporting 3 Credit(s)
MBA AF 612 - Managerial Accounting and Analytics 3 Credit(s)
MBA AF 613 - Federal Taxation and Regulation 3 Credit(s)
MBA AF 614 - Auditing, Assurance, and Analytics 3 Credit(s)
MBA AF 618 - Accounting Information Systems 3 Credit(s)
MBA AF 640 - Accounting Data Analytics 3 Credit(s)
MBAMGT 664 - The Legal Environment of Business 3 Credit(s)

Electives (6 Credits)

Complete two three-credit graduate courses from below.

MBA AF 615 - Contemporary Topics in Financial Reporting and Analytics 3 Credit(s)
MBA AF 616 - Financial Statement Analysis 3 Credit(s)
MBA AF 623 - Financial Modeling 3 Credit(s)
MBA AF 631 - Sustainable Finance and Impact Investing 3 Credit(s)
MBA AF 633 - Advanced Tax Compliance and Planning 3 Credit(s)
MBA AF 636 - Applied Econometric Analysis of Business Data 3 Credit(s)
MBA AF 637 - Financial Reporting Fraud Examination 3 Credit(s)
MBA AF 690 - Industry Research Practicum 3 Credit(s)
MBA AF 699 - Master’s Thesis 3 Credit(s)
MBAMGT 650 - Organizational Analysis and Skills 3 Credit(s)
MSIS 613 - Information Security, Privacy, and Regulatory Compliance 3 Credit(s)

Capstone Course (3 Credits)

MBA AF 691 - Accounting Theory & Analysis 3 Credit(s)

For more information on curriculum, including course descriptions and degree requirements, visit the Academic Catalog.

Learning Outcomes

Achieve proficiency with respect to the functional or technical knowledge and skills required for professional accounting careers.
Gain knowledge and skills regarding professional integrity and ethics.
Gain problem identification and solving, critical thinking, and analytical skills.
Gain proficiency in the communications, teamwork, and leadership skills required for professional accounting careers.

Graduation Criteria

Complete 30 credits from ten courses including seven required courses, two electives, and one capstone course.

Prerequisite courses:

MBA AF 601 - Economics for Managers
MBA AF 610 - Accounting for Managers
MBA AF 620 - Financial Management
MBAMS 600 - Mathematical Analysis for Managers

Capstone: Completion of a research paper as part of MBA AF 691.

Statute of limitations: Five years.

Contact

Associate Director of Graduate Program Operations Stephanie Zuehlke
For all application questions, please email stephanie.zuehlke@umb.edu

Accelerate Your Accounting Career

Access financial support through graduate, research, and teaching assistantships and connect with industry leaders and alumni at MassCPAs events and the MSA-DA alumni speaker series, building a professional network that opens doors.

Hands-on experience in the Bloomberg Lab and access to Wharton Research Data Services (WRDS) give you practical skills in analyzing real financial and economic data that employers value. Our Boston location puts you in the heart of one of the most exciting job markets for accounting professionals. Leading firms like Deloitte, EY, KPMG, and PwC, along with governmental agencies, nonprofits, and other organizations, are right here in Boston, giving you direct opportunities to apply your skills and advance your career.

Academic Community

Explore the department and college that supports your journey in Accounting & Finance.