- Paper critiques
- Presentation critiques and video feedback
- Resume critiques
- Self-awareness development
- Mock interviews
- Team building challenge
- Communication and leadership workshops
- The Second City Improvisational Workshop
- Communication and leadership resource library
Master of Accounting Science (MAS)
Gain valuable leadership skills while building accounting expertise.
In our nationally ranked Master of Accounting Science program, you'll learn to integrate advanced accounting knowledge with leadership and professional skills. Our graduate faculty members will prepare you for success in today's complex business environment.
At a Glance
30 credit hours
Online and in-person
Full-time, part-time and accelerated (4+1) options
Start in the fall, spring or summer semester
National Rankings
The College of Business and MAS program have achieved longstanding national recognition for excellence. Explore our rankings and accomplishments.
CPA Exam Eligibility
Earning your MAS degree fulfills all educational requirements to be eligible to sit for the CPA exam as dictated by the Illinois Board of Examiners (IBOE).
Testimonial
At NIU, the accountancy program has many groups and programs where you can take a leadership role. There, you can develop key skills that are important in the business world but are not taught in the classroom. Your time at the College of Business is what you make of it.
Career Outlook for Master of Accounting Science (MAS) Program
Average mid-career salary for alumni:
Top job titles for alumni:
Top employers for alumni:
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How to Apply
Admission is competitive and limited to candidates who demonstrate high promise of success in the program. You willl need to submit the following materials:
- Official transcript from each college or university from which you graduated
- Resume
- Statement of purpose
You will apply through the Graduate School.
- Fall application deadline: Aug. 1
- Spring deadline: Dec. 10
- Summer deadline:
Curriculum and Requirements
Our program will advance your knowledge of accounting and complementary business areas, as well as build your decision-making, communication, team-building and other professional skills.
Ernst & Young Leadership and Professional Development Center
The Ernst & Young Leadership and Professional Development Center offers workshops and events designed to enhance your leadership and accounting skills as part of the MAS program. The center also provides access to trained professionals who will help you work toward career success.
The center is open most weekdays as a place for study groups and meetings. Contact us at jellis2@niu.edu.
Faculty
Our faculty bring diverse experiences, backgrounds, scholarship and expertise from various areas across accounting science. They’re committed to facilitating engaging learning experiences in and outside the classroom.
Frequently Asked Questions
The MAS program is taught on the DeKalb campus and online.
Most classes are offered online and asynchronously. In-person classes are during the day, while a few are offered in the early evening. Summer courses are limited.
A full-time master's program is very challenging. We recommend working with the graduate program advisor to create a part-time course plan that works with your schedule.
Earning your MAS degree fulfills all educational requirements to be eligible to sit for the CPA exam as dictated by the Illinois Board of Examiners (IBOE).
Contact Meghann Cefaratti at mcefaratti@niu.edu for additional information.
Contact Us
Department of Accountancy and FinanceBarsema Hall
740 Garden Road
DeKalb, IL 60115
815-753-1637
accy@niu.edu
