Flexible Online MSA: From CPA Prep to Career Growth

Settled in the heart of Chicago’s financial district, the Kellstadt Graduate School of Business and Driehaus College of Business at DePaul University bring the expertise, academic rigor and legacy of a top-tier business education to its online Master of Science in Accountancy (MSA) program.

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To learn more about DePaul University’s online MSA program fill out the fields below to download a brochure. You can also call (800) 950-0232 (toll-free) or (312) 676-6438 to speak to one of our admissions advisors.

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$8,000 Guaranteed Scholarships for Incoming Students
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About the Program

Online MSA Degree Curriculum

As a master of science degree, DePaul’s program provides a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of accounting principles and practices that goes beyond the foundational education of a master’s in accounting (MSA) degree.

The degree consists of 8 core courses plus a choice of 4 electives. This refreshed curriculum is available starting with the fall 2023 term. This format is modeled on the most recent CPA exam structure, and individual courses directly align with exam content. Students can watch course recordings on their own time, attend select courses on campus, stream classes live or choose a mix of all modalities.

This tech-driven program leverages DePaul’s 10 years of online accounting expertise, while incorporating updated features that address students’ changing needs. A recent, evolving addition is a cohort model that encourages collaboration and interaction with peers and professors in live settings.

The DePaul online Master of Science in Accountancy (MSA) program provides students with an ideal balance of core accounting concepts and advanced knowledge.

Featuring a wide variety of elective options, students can personalize their curriculum to their specific career plans, while also acquiring the fundamental skills required across the accounting industry.

Those who want to take the CPA exam will benefit from a curriculum that has been modeled after the core sections and disciplines of the exam.

This is a flexible program designed by industry experts with working professionals in mind. Students can complete the full program online or come to campus for select in-person classes.

The coursework features live sessions with award-winning faculty members, giving students direct access to extensive knowledge and first-hand experience. DePaul also leverages its location in the heart of Chicago to bring in expert perspectives from local, national and global firms.

Is the Online MSA Degree Right for You?

Our online Master of Science in Accountancy program accepts students from a range of professional backgrounds, including:

  • Career changers, including those from non-business backgrounds, who are looking to enter the accounting field.
  • Business professionals who want to elevate their career and position themselves for a new role or promotion.
  • Prospective CPA candidates who want to prepare for the exam while also adding advanced skills.

No previous accounting or business degree is required to apply.

If you would like personalized advising on whether the MSA is a good fit for your goals, contact us to speak with an admissions advisor.

Students meeting at the DePaul Chicago campus

CPA Exam Prep

Just as the CPA exam has evolved so that test takers can focus on the area most relevant to their needs, our MSA has been enhanced to offer greater options and versatility to students.

We have reimagined our curriculum to match the most recent evolution of the CPA. Students can take courses that correspond with the core exam areas and choose electives that match the exam’s three discipline sections.

CPA certification adds credibility and recognition within the accounting field. Having a CPA license can open up new career opportunities, boost earning potential and can pave the way for leadership roles.

DePaul Chicago campus

About DePaul University

Teaching and learning are our priorities at DePaul. That might seem obvious, but we're the largest private university whose faculty members' priority is teaching. We're committed to an educational experience that weaves together mind, place, people and heart.

We pride ourselves on building personalized connections between faculty and students, which is why we maintain fewer than 40 students across all classes.

Our MSA program is highly distinguished and accredited by the AACSB.

About the Kellstadt Graduate School of Business

The Kellstadt Graduate School of Business at DePaul University is part of the Driehaus College of Business, one of the oldest business schools in the U.S. Kellstadt is where accomplished and aspiring leaders come to hone their skills to accelerate—or redirect—their careers. This is where you’ll develop and deepen your skills and business sense, with a perfect balance between theory and reality, analysis and action.

Our focus on practical, applicable knowledge gives our students a unique edge in the career market. The overwhelming majority of our alumni (95%) are employed full-time in a role that is related to their degree.

91% of Kellstadt graduates were employed, continuing education or pursuing other goals within six months of graduation.
Comprehensive Curriculum Modeled on the CPA Exam
The online MSA curriculum was designed to prepare graduates to pass the latest evolution of the CPA exam and thrive in their chosen career path.
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AACSB Accredited
One of the first business schools in the United States, the Driehaus College of Business has continued its legacy of business excellence with the online MSA. Our online MSA aligns with the rigorous standards set by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business-International (AACSB). Both the College of Business and the School of Accountancy & MIS are accredited by the AACSB.
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No GRE/GMAT or Business Degree Required
The online MSA is open to applicants from a range of academic and professional backgrounds who have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. No GMAT/GRE scores are required for admission.
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Guaranteed Scholarship for Incoming MSA Students
As part of our commitment to make graduate education more accessible, the Driehaus College of Business offers a guaranteed $8,000 scholarship to all incoming MSA students.
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Taught by Award-Winning Faculty
Our accounting faculty are award-winning professors and CPAs with recognition from the Big Four accounting firms and academic communities. Students benefit directly from their expertise through interactive live sessions.
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Learn more about DePaul's MSA.

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