By: MOFD Staff
Earning a master’s in accounting or finance is an excellent way to advance your career, earn in-demand credentials, and increase your earning potential. Earning your degree from a small college (defined as having fewer than 3,000 undergraduate students) often means more individualized attention, a closer relationship with faculty and peers, less competition for internship opportunities, and increased networking. Small colleges offer a variety of accounting and finance master’s degree formats including traditional classroom programs, online programs, and hybrid programs.
Methodology
We created this list of 50 great small colleges for a master’s in accounting and finance from an initial list of over 90 schools we researched using the NCES College Navigator. To be included in our list, we established that the school needed to be regionally accredited, offer either a master’s in finance or a master’s in accounting (or both), and feature opportunities such as internships, online course offerings, or professional development and skill training. Programs were then sorted by average graduate student tuition according to College Navigator. Below is our list of 50 great small colleges offering a master’s in accounting and finance.
50. Babson College – Wellesley, Massachusetts
Master of Science in Finance
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $89,550
Student Population: 3,357
While Babson College may be small, the master’s in finance program is mighty. The program may be completed in just nine months using the two-semester option, saving a significant amount of time and money. Students learn in-depth financial and quantitative skills, along with problem solving and application. The two-semester program starts with an orientation in August, followed by core courses using experiential instruction. An ethics practicum begins the spring semester, teaching students the importance of integrity and ethics in the finance world. Graduates have found exciting opportunities with companies such as Barclays Capital, Johnson and Johnson, and Fidelity Investments.
49. Hendrix College – Conway, Arkansas
Master of Arts in Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $47,250
Student Population: 1,208
Unique Features
Hendrix College is a small liberal arts college affiliated with the United Methodist Church. A low student-faculty ratio of 10:1 and an average class size of 16 means students receive individualized attention throughout their time at Hendrix. The master’s in accounting is an eight-course program, two required courses and six electives. Elective courses include auditing, taxation, business law, and cost accounting. Students should have an undergraduate degree in accounting, economics, or economics and business to apply for this master’s in accounting program. Graduates have gone on to successfully work for companies such as the Federal Reserve Bank and Administration, Dillard’s, and Baptist Health.
48. Clark University-Worcester, Massachusetts
Master of Science in Finance, Master of Science in Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $46,848
Student Population: 3,122
Unique Features
Clark University is one of the best grad schools for business according to U.S. News and World Report and is accredited by the AACSB. As one of the best small colleges for accounting and finance master’s degrees, Clark is also recognized by the Princeton Review for excellence. The master’s in finance program prepares students for a career in banking, investment management, trading, insurance, and corporate finance. The master’s in accounting satisfies the education requirement to sit for the CPA exam in certain states. Both programs feature small class sizes and convenient course offerings at multiple campuses.
47. Augustana University – Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Master of Professional Accountancy
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $34,000
Student Population: 2,133
Unique Features
The Master of Professional Accountancy from Augustana University is a four-plus-one degree program, allowing students to earn their undergraduate and graduate degrees in just five years. The program meets the educational requirement to sit for the CPA exam in most states. Students will learn principles of accounting through real-world experiences and become familiar with the codifications for the Financial Accounting Standards Board and Government Accounting Standards Board. Augustana is one of the best small colleges for an accounting degree with a student to faculty ratio of about 12:1 and renowned faculty.
46. University of Dallas-Irving, Texas
Master of Science in Accounting, Master of Science in Finance
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Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $33,750
Student Population: 2,542
Unique Features
Founded in 1956 as a Catholic institution, the University of Dallas is considered one of the top 15 Catholic colleges in the country by Forbes magazine. The University of Dallas at Irving offers both a master’s in finance and a master’s in accounting. The master’s in finance from this top small school prepares students to take the CFA level 1 exam to earn the Chartered Financial Analyst designation. This 30 credit hour program is comprised of just 10 courses that can be taken in the fall, spring, or summer. An intermester offering is also available, allowing students to complete a course in just two evenings and a Saturday every week for three to four weeks. The master’s in accounting is a 33-credit hour program that prepares students to sit for the CPA exam and pursue a career in taxation, forensic accounting, assurance, or consulting.
45. Texas Lutheran University – Seguin, Texas
Master of Accountancy
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $30,550
Student Population: 1,443
Unique Features
Texas Lutheran University is a top small college offering a Master of Accountancy. Founded in 1891, TLU has a longstanding commitment to lifelong learning and the Lutheran faith. Ranked by both the Princeton Review and U.S. News and World Report as one of the best colleges in the West, TLU is a great place to study accounting. Students can earn their master’s in accounting by completing a concurrent bachelor’s and master’s degree in accounting or by completing a stand-alone master of accountancy. The Master of Accountancy boasts a 100-percent internship placement rate as well as a 100-percent job placement rate.
44. Juniata College – Huntingdon, Pennsylvania
Master of Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $24,800
Student Population: 1,433
Unique Features
Juniata College is a vibrant community with a safe campus, community involvement, study abroad opportunities, and a student body ready to make a difference in the world. The Master of Accounting program can be completed in just one year requires students to complete both financial economics and a course in accounting research, which is unique to most accounting degree programs. Class size is small and students have the opportunity to work together in teams to study and come up with solutions to real-world accounting problems and scenarios.
43. Millsaps College – Jackson, Mississippi
Master of Accounting-MAcc
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $23,568
Student Population: 865
Unique Features
Millsaps College is a small liberal arts college affiliated with the Methodist Church founded in 1890. Millsaps has been ranked by the Princeton Review, Kiplinger’s, and The Fiske Guide to Colleges for academic excellence. Almost 95-percent of Millsaps faculty hold a PhD or higher in their field of study. The incredibly low student to faculty ratio of 1:9 guarantees students receive individualized attention throughout the program. The 30 credit hour Master of Accounting from this top small college is open to individuals with and without an undergraduate degree in accounting or business (prerequisites may be required). Students have the opportunity to study abroad for three or six weeks to study business and culture in another country. Internship experiences are also incorporated into the program, providing students with the opportunity to gain professional work experience.
42. Christian Brothers University – Memphis, Tennessee
Master of Accountancy
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $12,988
Student Population: 2,034
Unique Features
Christian Brothers University in Memphis, Tennessee is a private Catholic institution founded in 1871 and accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The Master of Accountancy program can be completed as an intensive 10-month program, or at a slower pace of up to five years. Concentration areas are available in both Forensic Accounting and Financial Management. The Master of Accountancy from this top small school is ideal for students who want to earn their CPA, CFE, or CMA certification and increase their salary potential. With over 1,000 accounting alumni in 39 different states, the networking possibilities are endless.
41. Bay Path University – Longmeadow, Massachusetts
MS in Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $14,670
Student Population: 3,444
Unique Features
Bay Path University in Massachusetts in a four-year private institution considered one of the fastest-growing baccalaureate colleges by the Chronicle of Higher Education Almanac. The Master’s in Accounting is a 100-percent online program that can be completed in just eight months of study. Three concentrations are available including Public Accounting, Private Accounting, and Forensic Accounting. Multiple start states are available throughout the year, and there are no classes during the accounting busy season. Students have the opportunity to complete an internship experience during the business season or just take time off. Courses meet the criteria for CPA requirements in most states.
40. Fairleigh Dickinson University – Madison, New Jersey
Master of Science in Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $22,186
Student Population: 3,483
Unique Features
Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus is located on a picturesque ridge with a nice mix of both historical and modern buildings. While primarily a residential campus, there are many adult, graduate, certificate, and undergraduate commuter students who take advantage of the close-knit atmosphere and low student to faculty ratios. The Master in Accounting program at FDU-Florham features two distinct tracks that prepare students to take the CPA exam and become licensed. Students who have already earned their undergraduate degree in accounting can complete the 30 credit hour program which includes 15 credits of required coursework and 15 credits of electives. Track B is for students who have not earned a bachelor’s in accounting. Students in Track B must complete 24 credits of accounting courses and an additional 24 credits of business courses. Fairleigh Dickinson University is accredited by the AACSB.
39. University of St. Thomas-Houston, Texas
Master of Science in Accounting and Master of Science in Finance
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $20,934
Student Population: 3,223
Unique Features
The University of St. Thomas in Houston offers both a master’s in finance and a master’s in accounting through the Cameron School of Business. Accredited by the AACSB, the Cameron School is considered a top notch business school. The master’s in accounting is a 36-credit hour program that prepares students for the CPA examination as well as how to succeed as accountants. The master’s in finance is a 30-credit hour program specifically designed for working financial professionals. UST offers low student to faculty ratios with an average class size of just 14 students. Flexible scheduling options make these programs ideal for those with busy schedules.
38. Albertus Magnus College – New Haven, Connecticut
Master of Science in Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $20,520
Student Population: 1,456
Unique Features
Albertus Magnus College in Connecticut is a private, liberal arts institution founded by the Dominican Sisters of Peace. Over 90-percent of full-time faculty hold a PhD or other terminal degree in their field. Albertus Magnus College is a top small college for accounting, offering a one year program with accelerated eight-week courses and five different start dates each year. Class sizes are small and students have the opportunity to choose between blended or online classes as they progress through the program. Graduates have gone on to become CPAs, grants administrators, corporate accounting managers, and non-profit accountants.
37. Wagner College-Staten Island, New York
Master of Science in Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $21,780
Student Population: 2,218
Unique Features
Wagner College is a private liberal arts college on Staten Island offering service-learning, internship opportunities, and research. The master’s in accounting is a one year program taught in small cohorts that teaches students to become accounting professionals. Undergraduate accounting students can also take part in the program as a five-year accounting program. Students interested in earning their master’s in accounting as well as their MBA in accounting can complete an additional 18 credits and earn both degrees.
36. Goldey-Beacom College – Wilmington, Delaware
Master of Science in Finance
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $20,106
Student Population: 1,493
Unique Features
Goldey-Beacom College is a private, non-profit college located just outside Wilmington, Delaware. The master’s in finance from this top small college prepares students for a career in financial analysis and asset management through a curriculum that incorporates coursework in equity analysis, investment management, corporate finance, and risk analysis. The 36 credit hour program is grounded both in theory and actual practice, allowing students to transfer their knowledge effectively to the workplace.
35. Dominican University-River Forest, Illinois
Master of Science in Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $20,400
Student Population: 2,990
Unique Features
Dominican University is a Catholic university located outside Chicago, Illinois. Dominican University offers a master’s in accounting through the Brenna School of Business, an AASCB accredited business school. The program is designed to prepare students for the CPA examination. Students complete between 33 and 39 credit hours (depending on undergraduate coursework) covering areas such as federal taxation, financial reporting, cost management, auditing, and international accounting.
34. Walsh College – Troy, Michigan
Master of Science in Accountancy, Master of Science in Finance
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $12,255
Student Population: 2,006
Unique Features
Walsh College is a non-profit business school offering 13 different master’s degree programs in business and technology. Class size is small, and courses blend online and on-campus experiences to provide students with flexibility. Programs are designed for students with at least two years of work experience in their area of study. The master’s in finance from this top small college is a 36 credit hour program including eight core courses, three concentration courses, and a capstone experience. Concentrations are available in financial management and financial services. The master’s in accountancy has two program tracks. The Master of Science in Accountancy is designed for students without an accounting background who plan to enter the field. The Master of Science in Accountancy for Accounting Graduates is a great choice for those who already have an accounting bachelor’s degree and want to advance their career. Walsh College is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
33. Golden Gate University – San Francisco, California
Master of Accountancy, Master of Science in Finance, Master of Science in Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $19,620
Student Population: 2,515
Unique Features
Located in the heart of the San Francisco Financial District, Golden Gate University offers programs in business, management, taxation, and law. The master’s in finance is offered entirely online or through a blend of online and classroom courses. Concentrations are available in corporate finance, investment management, or a general concentration. The master’s of accountancy program prepares students for a career as a CPA or CMA accountant. Courses are offered in-person and students may work toward their degree on a part-time or full-time basis. Students also have the opportunity to complete their degree in just 12 months through a day cohort program that also provides employment assistance after graduation. The Master of Science in Accounting is another program offered at GGU, designed for students with an undergraduate degree in finance who want to advance their careers.
32. University of Charleston – Charleston, West Virginia
Master of Forensic Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $16,584
Student Population: 2,623
Unique Features
The University of Charleston is a small non-for-profit college offering the first Master of Forensic Accounting (MFAcc) in the country. The MFAcc is offered as a hybrid program with a combination of online and in-class instruction. Students can earn their degree in just 16 months and only need to visit campus eight times. Designed for the working professional, the program is flexible to accommodate busy schedules. Faculty are active practitioners in the industry, sharing their knowledge and expertise with students throughout the program. Graduates have gone on to work in fraud investigations, economic damages, and business valuations.
31. La Roche College-Pittsburg, Pennsylvania
Master of Science in Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $18,420
Student Population: 1,443
Unique Features
La Roche College is a Catholic university located just outside Pittsburg on a beautiful 80-acre campus. This top small college’s master’s in accounting program prepares students for the CPA exam and licensure. The 30 credit hour program features small class size (about 12 students in each class), and personalized attention by faculty holding terminal degrees in their area of instruction. Students have the opportunity to participate in research opportunities, applying their knowledge and skills to an outside organization. Courses cover areas such as fraud examination, wealth management, international accounting, and modern accounting information systems.
30. Caldwell University-Caldwell, New Jersey
MS in Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $17,910
Student Population: 2,189
Unique Features
Caldwell University is a Catholic university ranked 104th by U.S. News and World Report in their ranking of Regional Universities North. The master’s in accounting from this top small college for accounting is designed for students who want to increase their knowledge in accounting and qualify for CPA licensure. The program is open to those with and without an undergraduate degree in accounting, but prerequisite courses may be required. This 30 credit hour program features a 50/50 balance of required core courses and electives. Full-time students have the opportunity to complete an internship opportunity to gain professional experience.
29. Chatham University-Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Master of Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $17,766
Student Population: 2,336
Unique Features
Considered one of the top green colleges in the country by both The Princeton Review and Forbes, Chatham University is both innovative and engaging. Ranked by U.S. News and World Report as one of the best colleges in the Regional Universities North category, Chatham University is a well-respected institution offering a Master of Accounting degree. The master’s in accounting is a 30-credit hour program features a hybrid schedule where students alternate class session weeks during the spring and fall semesters. The program prepares students to take the CPA and CMA examinations and start their career in the field of accounting. Chatham University is accredited by the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education, an indicator of a quality business program.
28. Edgewood College – Madison, Wisconsin
Master of Science in Accountancy
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $17,856
Student Population: 2,190
Unique Features
Located in Madison, Wisconsin, Edgewood College is a co-educational liberal arts college affiliated with the Catholic Church. Most classes have less than 20 students, with the average class size being around 15. The School of Business is accredited by the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs. The Master of Science in Accountancy program features a rigorous curriculum focused on critical thinking, real-world experience, and values-based management. Courses are offered online or in the classroom year-round. Students have the opportunity to take advantage of internship experiences to build their professional portfolio. Graduates have accepted positions in a variety of settings including public accounting, private industry, and governmental organizations.
27. Florida Institute of Technology – Melbourne, Florida
Master of Science in Accounting and Financial Forensics
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $22,338
Student Population: 6,279
Unique Features
Florida Institute of Technology is a top small school for accounting and finance, ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a Tier 1 Best National University and by Forbes as one of the countries “Best Value” Universities. The Master of Science in Accounting and Financial Forensics is a classroom-based, 30 credit hour program preparing students for an exciting career in this cutting edge area of accounting. Courses cover information such as forensic data mining, auditing theory and application, fraud examination, and forensic accounting. The capstone course experience focuses on current topics in accounting and advanced problems, preparing students for what they might encounter in the workplace.
26. Adrian College – Adrian, Michigan
Master of Science in Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $18,600
Student Population: 1,856
Unique Features
Considered the #1 Up and Coming College in the Midwest by U.S. News and World Report, Adrian College features a student-centered learning environment with real-world experience. This top small school for accounting features a 30 credit hour Master of Science in Accounting that can be completed in just nine months. Students are eligible to sit for the CPA or CMA examination after earning their degrees. Courses include business law, financial statement analysis, and fraud examination, and advanced taxation. Students have the opportunity to register for internship opportunities to gain professional work experience.
25. Medaille College – Buffalo, New York
Master of Science in Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $21,176
Student Population: 2,146
Unique Features
Medaille College in Buffalo, New York is a private, four-year institution offering courses on campus and online. This small top school for a Master’s in Accounting offers a one year program that can be completed on campus by attending class just two nights per week. Students complete this 30 credit program by taking 24 credits of core courses and six credit hours of accounting electives in areas such as strategic marketing, organizational behavior and development, and strategic operations management. Field experience is required as part of the program to get hands-on experience.
24. Keystone College – La Plume, Pennsylvania
Accountancy MAcc Program
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $15,600
Student Population: 1,424
Unique Features
Keystone College is located on a small rural campus and provides students with individualized attention, a variety of clubs and organizations, and benefits from as the Keystone Promise, which provides career development services after graduation. The Accountancy MAcc degree from this top small school for accounting is a 30 credit hour program offered online. This program can be completed in just one year of study and allows students to sit for the CPA exam. Students complete two courses every seven weeks and are expected to finish in a year. While the program is open to students with an undergraduate degree in an area other than accounting, there are prerequisite courses that must be completed prior to admission into the program.
23. Clark Atlanta University – Atlanta, Georgia
Master of Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $16,290
Student Population: 3,911
Unique Features
Clark Atlanta University is a private urban institution with a rich African-American heritage. Clark Atlanta University was created in 1988 from a consolidation of Atlanta University and Clark College. The Master of Arts in accounting from this top school for accounting is a 30 credit hour program that can be completed in just two semesters. Students can choose graduate electives in areas such as finance, marketing, management, economics, and decision science. Required courses include international accounting, cost management systems, fund accounting, and advanced accounting.
22. Our Lady of the Lake University – San Antonio, Texas
Master of Science in Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $16,326
Student Population: 3,149
Unique Features
Our Lady of the Lake University has a positive reputation for alumni giving (14-percent), campus ethnic diversity, and a high percentage of classes with fewer than 20 students according to U.S. News and World Report. OLLU is a coeducational comprehensive institution offering 14 different master’s programs including the master’s in accounting. This top small school for accounting features a weekend program that can be completed in just one year.
21. City University of Seattle-Seattle, Washington
Master of Professional Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $11,430
Student Population: 2,113
Unique Features
The City University of Seattle is a top small school for accounting serving both working adults and transfer students. Ranked by U.S. News and World Report for being among the top 20 online programs for veterans, CityU is dedicated to the education and professional development of adult learners. The Master of Professional Accounting is an online program with the flexibility to allow students to move at their own pace. Students are prepared to sit for the CPA, CMA, and CGMA exams. Small class size allows students to talk to their professors and peers on a regular basis. The curriculum allows students to take core courses and select the remaining of their courses from areas including public accounting, information security audit, finance, global management, and management accounting applications.
20. Spalding University-Louisville, Kentucky
Master of Science in Business Communication-Concentration in Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $12,825
Student Population: 1,758
Unique Features
Spalding University is an inclusive private institution following the traditions of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth. With the most racially diverse student body of all private institutions in Kentucky, Spalding supports a variety of students with different beliefs, abilities, backgrounds, and educational goals. The unique master’s in business communication with a concentration in accounting is offered in the classroom or online, from the comfort of your own home, and can be completed in just 10 months. Students are prepared to sit for the CPA exam and advance in their careers. There are no GRE or GMAT scores required to be accepted, and students are welcome to apply regardless of whether they have an undergraduate business degree.
19. New England College – Henniker, New Hampshire
Master of Science in Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $14,088
Student Population:2,521
Unique Features
New England College in New Hampshire is located just 15 minutes from the state capital and 90 minutes from Boston. NEC is dedicated to experiential learning and faculty are both experienced in the field and dedicated to the education of their students. The master’s in accounting is a 40 credit hour program preparing students to work in auditing and risk management, banking, financial services, non profits, and governmental organizations. Students are prepared to sit for their CPA exam as well as other programs such as the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) and the Certified Internal Auditor (CIA). Courses align with the AICPA areas of decision modeling, risk analysis, measurement, reporting, research, strategic thinking, and legal.
18. Oklahoma Christian University – Edmond, Oklahoma
Master of Accountancy
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $11,250
Student Population: 2,228
Unique Features
Ranked as one of the best universities in the west by both The Princeton Review and U.S. News and World Report, Oklahoma Christian University is a top small school for an accounting degree. The Graduate School of Business from Oklahoma Christian University offers an onsite or 100-percent online Master of Accountancy as well as a hybrid program for those who want the best of both worlds. Students complete 18 credit hours in accounting and 12 hours in another business related discipline. Graduates are prepared to sit for the CPA exam and pursue a career with major corporations or accounting firms.
17. Fontbonne University – Saint Louis, Missouri
Master of Science in Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $13,950
Student Population: 1,290
Unique Features
Fontbonne University was founded in 1923 as a private liberal arts Catholic university. This top small school for accounting offers a 30 credit hour evening program of eight-week courses. The program is open to those with and without an undergraduate degree in accounting. Courses include accounting and business strategy, auditing, federal income taxation for individuals, and accounting information systems. Fontbonne University has an Anti-Fraud Education Partnership.
16. Averett University – Danville, Virginia
Master of Accountancy
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $11,790
Student Population: 612
Unique Features
Averett University is a Baptist college with a low student to faculty ratio and a diverse learning community. The Master of Accountancy from Averett University in Virginia features both online and on-campus courses, designed to give working professionals flexibility when completing their degree. The curriculum is designed to focus on specific areas of the CPA exam each semester. This method helps graduates successfully pass the CPA examination.
15. Shorter University – Rome, Georgia
Online Master of Accountancy
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $12,360
Student Population: 1,452
Unique Features
Considered a Best Value College by The Princeton Review and one of the Top 20 Southern Comprehensive Colleges by U.S. News and World Report, Shorter University is one of the top small schools for a master’s in accounting. The Master of Accountancy program is a 100-percent online program that can be completed in just 12 months of study. The program is designed for those with an undergraduate degree in accounting and prepares students to sit for the CPA exam. Courses cover current issues in accounting, legal and ethical issues, accounting information systems, and corporate and partnership taxation.
14. Wheeling University – Wheeling, West Virginia
Master of Science in Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $9,450
Student Population: 1,176
Unique Features
Wheeling University in West Virginia affiliated with the Catholic church. Students come from over 35 different states and 20 different countries, creating a diverse student community. WU offers a master’s in accounting that can be earned after just 10 courses of study with students attending class just one evening each week. Students learn through group projects, student-faculty interactions, and vibrant discussions with peers. The program meets the educational requirements in most states for students to sit for the CPA exam.
13. Hodges University – Naples, Florida
Master of Accountancy
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $13,500
Student Population: 1,051
Unique Features
Hodges University is a top small school for accounting, offering personalized service, a welcoming environment, multiple course delivery methods, and simplified enrollment. The Master of Accountancy program is offered both online and on campus to accommodate working professionals. The program can be completed in just one year, delivered through an accelerated format, or longer if students need to attend part time. Students may select an area of concentration in lieu of elective coursework, but this will increase the number of credits needed to graduate to 39. Coursework covers areas such as internal auditing, forensic accounting, tax practice and representation, and accounting trends and techniques.
12. Brenau University – Gainesville, Georgia
Masters of Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $12,834
Student Population: 2,842
Unique Features
Brenau University is considered one of the best regional universities in the south according to U.S. News and World Report. The Master of Accounting program is an online program designed for students who want to prepare for the CPA exam. Students develop the knowledge and skills needed to understand the accounting field and successfully pass the exam. Courses include taxation, accounting theory, advanced cost accounting, and financial management.
11. Nichols College-Dudley, Massachusetts
Master of Science in Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $23,400
Student Population: 1,592
Unique Features
Nichols College is a private college dedicated to building future leaders. This top small school for accounting offers an accelerated master’s in accounting that can be completed in just 18 months. Using the HyFlex learning system, students can decide the most convenient way to attend class on a week by week basis-online or on-campus. Students can add on an MBA degree by completing eight additional courses. They can also opt to complete their MSOL degree by finishing another six courses. Graduates who finish the program and complete an affiliated online prep course have a 90-percent pass rate on their CPA exam, significantly above the national average of 47-percent.
10. Cabrini University-Radnor, Pennsylvania
Master of Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $20,550
Student Population: 2,285
Unique Features
Cabrini University is a Catholic university founded in 1957. Located just two hours from New York City and two and a half hours from Washington DC, Cabrini is close to major financial districts. This top small school for accounting offers a Master of Accounting program that fulfills the educational requirement to sit for the CPA exam. Students learn about international and forensic accounting, develop leadership skills, and learn how to conduct accounting processes in an ethical manner. This program is ideal for students who have earned an undergraduate degree in accounting.
9. Bellarmine University-Louisville, Kentucky
Master of Science in Taxation
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $11,735
Student Population: 3,369
Unique Features
Bellarmine University is a small Catholic university with a low student to faculty ratio and highly educated faculty. Over 80-percent of faculty have completed the highest degree in their field, passing along that knowledge and expertise to their students in the classroom. The Master of Science in Taxation is designed for a variety of professionals including accountants, attorneys, financial planners, and recent graduates. Accredited by the AACSB, the curriculum is comprehensive and relevant to today’s issues in taxation. This program is offered entirely online, allowing students to continue working while attending classes.
8. Castleton University-Castleton, Vermont
MS in Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $11,574
Student Population: 2,196
Unique Features
Castleton University has been around for over 200 years, offering a quality liberal arts education to a diverse student body. The master’s in accounting from this top small college for accounting prepares students for a variety of licenses and credentials including the CPA, CMA, CFE, and CIA. The program focuses on four main areas of study including financial accounting and auditing, professional standards and ethics, management accounting and finance, and taxation. The job placement rate for graduates of this program is 100-percent and the pass rate on the CPA exam is above the national average.
7. Fairfax University of America-Fairfax, Virginia
Master of Science in Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $13,068
Student Population: 632
Unique Features
The School of Business at Fairfax University of America with the goal of providing an affordable education that aligns with the highest business standards. The Master of Science in Accounting is comprised of seven core accounting courses, three accounting elective courses and two thesis courses. Electives include unique offerings such as long term financial decisions, trading and risk management, and international accounting. The thesis opportunity gives students the chance to showcase their knowledge and skills designed to assess, maintain, and improve the financial, legal, and ethical stability of an organization. An option CPA Professional Preparation Course is available for students who want to pursue their CPA certification.
6. Wilson College – Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
Master of Accountancy
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $9,000
Student Population: 1,499
Unique Features
Wilson College was founded in 1869, fostering personal responsibility and integrity through student experiences both inside the classroom and outside in the real world. The Master of Accountancy program is a 30 credit hour program that can be earned in just one year. Students enrolled at Wilson College working on their bachelor’s degree can complete a 3+1 option and earn their bachelor’s and master’s degrees in just four years. Ten courses are required by this top small school for accounting in order to complete the degree program. Courses options include data mining, fraud examinations, forensic accounting, advanced auditing and assurance services, and business consulting.
5. Saint Joseph’s College – Standish, Maine
Master of Accountancy
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $9,470
Student Population: 2,106
Unique Features
Saint Joseph’s College in Maine is a private, Catholic university founded in 1912 by the Sisters of Mercy. There are about 1,000 students on campus, with the rest located around the world enrolled in online programs. The Master of Accountancy is a 36 credit hour online program designed for students with or without an undergraduate degree in accounting. Courses are offered in 10-week terms, with coursework combining ethics, leadership, and accounting principles.
4. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota – Winona, Minnesota
Master of Science in Accountancy
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $9,180
Student Population: 5,560
Unique Features
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is ranked as one of the best colleges in the Midwest by The Princeton Review and U.S. News and World Report. Founded in 1912 as a Roman Catholic institution, SMU offers undergraduate, bachelor’s completion programs, master’s and doctoral degree programs. The Master’s in Accountancy is a one year program with cohorts beginning each spring, summer, and fall. Students can elect to complete an on-campus, blended, or fully online program.
3. Bloomfield College – Bloomfield, New Jersey
Master’s in Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $7,840
Student Population: 1,685
Unique Features
Bloomfield College offers the lowest tuition rate in New Jersey of any private college. U.S. News and World Report considered Bloomfield the 14th most diverse National Liberal Arts College in the United States. The master’s in accounting from this top small college for accounting is a ten-course cohort program designed to prepare students to pass their CPA exam. Courses are taught in a seminar format, allowing students and faculty to collaborate and have vibrant discussions.
2. Delta State University – Cleveland, Mississippi
Master of Professional Accountancy
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $7,501
Student Population: 3,715
Unique Features
Delta State University is a small public institution with students from all over the United States and over 50 different countries. This affordable top small school for accounting has no out of state fees, making it a best buy for a master’s in accounting. The Master of Professional Accountancy is a 30 credit hour program made up of 21 credits of required accounting courses and nine credits of electives. Students can choose from over 20 different electives, tailoring their coursework to meet their professional needs.
1. Texas A&M University – Central Texas-Killeen, Texas
Master of Science in Accounting
Average Graduate Tuition Per Year: $12,000
Student Population: 2,464
Unique Features
Texas A&M University-Central Texas is an upper-level institution with a diverse student population. Courses are offered in traditional formats as well as online to accommodate students in the Central Texas area including Ford Hood. As a top small accounting school, Texas A&M University-Central Texas offers a 36 credit hour program designed for students who plan to become CPAs, CMAs, or CIAs. Class size is small to allow for personal interaction between students and faculty. Students interested in pursuing doctoral study in accounting will find this program to be a great stepping stone toward their educational goals.
Sources:
- College Navigator
- School Websites
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- How Are Finance and Economics Related?
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- What is the Difference Between a Master’s in Finance and a Master’s in Economics?
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- Top 10 Affordable Master’s in Finance Online Degree Programs
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