Master of Science in Accounting (MSA)

A Master of Science in Accounting is much more than a pathway to CPA licensure—it is a gateway to a wide range of opportunities across the business world. Graduates gain a sophisticated understanding of financial reporting, strategic decision-making, risk management, and organizational operations, skills that are highly valued in virtually every industry.

Whether pursuing careers in public accounting, corporate finance, investment banking, consulting, entrepreneurship, or executive leadership, graduates leave the program equipped with the analytical expertise and business acumen needed to succeed. The competencies developed through advanced accounting study translate seamlessly into roles such as Financial Analyst, Controller, Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Business Consultant, Operations Manager, and other leadership positions.

The Saint Peter’s University Master of Science in Accounting provides a rigorous, affordable, and career-focused education designed to prepare students to become highly skilled accounting professionals and trusted business advisors. Distinguished by its emphasis on risk management, compliance, and the integration of artificial intelligence in accounting, the program equips students to navigate today’s increasingly complex regulatory environment and address the evolving challenges facing modern organizations.

For students seeking CPA licensure, the program is designed to satisfy the educational requirements of states that require 150 total credit hours to sit for the CPA examination. When combined with a 120-credit undergraduate degree, the Master of Science in Accounting together with our Bridge Program provides the coursework and credit hours needed to meet these requirements.

The one-semester Bridge Program establishes a strong foundation in accounting and business principles while providing the additional coursework necessary for CPA eligibility. Students then complete four semesters of advanced graduate-level accounting and business coursework, developing the technical expertise, critical thinking skills, and professional judgment required for long-term success in the profession.

Please Note: Our program is designed with the New York/ New Jersey CPA Exam requirements in mind. These requirements are similar in most states but are subject to change. Each of the 50 states or jurisdictions has its own set of fees and CPA Exam Requirements for education, residency, and age. It is the student’s responsibility to research his particular state's requirements to ensure this program meets his needs. For details on requirements in your state or jurisdiction, visit the American Institute of CPAs at aicpa.org and nasba.org.

We are proud to have partnered with the Frank J. Guarini School of Business at Saint. Peter’s University, a highly ranked university featuring an outstanding School of Business under the leadership of Gulhan Bizel, Ph.D., MBA.

Founded in 1872, the university offers more than 60 undergraduate and graduate programs to more than 2,600 undergraduate and 800 graduate students. US News and World Report ranked St. Peter’s among the Top 100 “Best Regional Universities in the North,” and Money Magazine ranked St. Peter’s and the “Most Transformative School” in the state of New Jersey.

Saint Peter’s University is regionally accredited by and a member of the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE or the Commission).

The Guarini School of Business at Saint Peter’s University has received specialized accreditation for its business programs through the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) located at 11960 Quivira Road in Overland Park, Kansas, USA.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of accountants and auditors is projected to grow 5 percent from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. About 124,200 openings for accountants and auditors are projected each year, on average, over the decade. In general, the employment growth of accountants and auditors is expected to be closely tied to the health of the overall economy. As the economy grows, more workers should be needed to prepare and examine financial records.

The degree program can be completed in four semesters (16 months). The optional Bridge Program requires one additional semester.

• Both a CPA and a traditional M.S. in Accounting can prepare you for a successful accounting career, but the CPA credential offers additional professional authority, career flexibility, and earning potential.

• Professional Credentials and Education

An M.S. in Accounting provides advanced accounting knowledge and graduate-level education. A CPA (Certified Public Accountant) goes a step further by completing 150 credit hours of education, meeting state licensing requirements, and passing the rigorous Uniform CPA Examination. The CPA credential is widely regarded as the gold standard in the accounting profession.

• Expanded Professional Authority

CPAs are licensed professionals who can perform audits, represent clients before the IRS, and provide certain attestation services that non-CPA accountants cannot. They are also highly sought after for tax, consulting, financial reporting, and advisory roles.

• Greater Career Opportunities

Many leadership and specialized positions either require or strongly prefer the CPA designation. CPAs are well-positioned for roles such as Controller, Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Tax Manager, Audit Manager, and Financial Consultant. The credential is recognized throughout the United States and respected internationally, creating opportunities across industries and geographic regions.

• Higher Earning Potential

Because of their advanced qualifications and broader scope of practice, CPAs typically earn more than their non-CPA counterparts. Entry-level CPAs often earn around $75,000–$80,000 annually, while experienced CPAs in leadership or specialized roles can earn well into six figures, with senior executives frequently exceeding $250,000 per year.

• The Bottom Line

An M.S. in Accounting provides a strong educational foundation, while the CPA credential adds professional licensure, expanded career options, and increased earning potential. For students seeking long-term advancement and leadership opportunities in accounting and finance, pursuing the CPA pathway can be a significant competitive advantage.

Applicants must have a Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution of higher education (e.g. yeshiva, college) with a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0.

Yes. A bachelor's degree from an accredited Torah institution qualifies applicants for consideration for admission to the M.S. in Accounting program. In addition, the credits earned through that degree can be applied toward the 150-credit educational requirement needed for CPA licensure.

This allows students with a yeshiva-based undergraduate education to build on their existing academic achievements while pursuing an advanced degree that prepares them for careers in accounting, finance, business leadership, and related fields.

Yes. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will be academically qualified to apply to sit for the CPA examination in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, subject to the requirements of the applicable state licensing board. The curriculum has been specifically designed to align with the educational requirements for CPA eligibility in these states, providing students with the coursework and credit hours needed to pursue licensure.

These requirements are similar in most states but are subject to change. Each of the 50 states or jurisdictions has its own set of fees and CPA Exam Requirements for education, residency, and age. It is the student’s responsibility to research his particular state's requirements to ensure this program meets his needs. For details on requirements in your state or jurisdiction, visit the American Institute of CPAs at aicpa.org and nasba.org.

Yes. Sara Schenirer and Saint Peter’s University are committed to providing an outstanding educational experience that combines rigorous academics, exceptional student support, and a learning environment that is respectful of Orthodox Jewish values and commitments.

Through its partnership with Sara Schenirer’s Men’s Division, Saint Peter’s University has worked closely with us to understand and accommodate the unique needs of Torah-observant students. Every effort has been made to create an educational experience that allows students to pursue their academic and professional goals while remaining true to their religious lifestyle and values.

In addition, the academic calendar is structured with the Jewish calendar in mind. No classes, examinations, or assignment deadlines are scheduled on major Jewish holidays, enabling students to fully observe these important holidays without academic conflict.

Students can therefore benefit from a high-quality, professionally focused graduate education in an environment that respects and supports their commitment to Torah life.