What can you do with a master’s in accounting? The Broad College of Business opens new graduate program for non-accounting majors

The Eli Broad College of Business at Michigan State University is expanding access to one of today’s most in-demand career paths with the launch of its new Master’s of Professional Accounting and Analytics (MPAA). Applications are now open for the program’s inaugural cohort, beginning in fall 2026.

Designed specifically for students without an undergraduate degree in accounting, the in-person master’s program creates a direct pathway for a career change to accounting, equipping graduates with both technical accounting knowledge and in-demand data analytics skills.

As the accounting industry faces a growing talent shortage and evolving CPA licensure pathways, Broad’s MPAA program is built to meet both student and employer needs.

Traditionally, entering the profession requires a bachelor’s degree in accounting followed by additional coursework to meet the 150-credit-hour CPA requirement. The MPAA program reimagines that pathway, welcoming students from disciplines such as economics, business, liberal arts and beyond, and providing the foundational coursework needed to transition into accounting careers. It recognizes accounting as a foundational skill that extends beyond traditional roles, supporting careers in entrepreneurship, consulting, corporate leadership and finance.

For many prospective students asking, “what can you do with a master’s in accounting?”, the answer is increasingly broad. Graduates are prepared for roles in growing fields across public accounting, corporate finance, consulting, analytics, non-profit, and more.

“This program was designed with today’s students and employers in mind,” said program director Shannon Mulally. “We’re creating a clear, accessible pathway for students from any academic background to build the technical and analytical skills needed to succeed in accounting and related fields.”

The 30-credit program can be completed in as little as 12 months and requires no prior accounting coursework beyond a bachelor’s degree. Students begin with foundational accounting courses before advancing into analytics and specialized coursework aligned with career goals.

Students can customize their experience through four concentration options:

• Accounting analytics
• Managerial analysis for decision making
• Taxation
• Transaction services

The curriculum is designed in collaboration with faculty, alumni, and employers to ensure graduates are prepared for high-impact roles across industries. Courses also support progress toward CPA licensure requirements.

The in-person format allows students to benefit from close interaction with faculty, cohort-based learning environments, and direct access to career services and employer recruiting.

With rolling admissions and a quick decision timeline, admitted students are onboarded early and connected to the Russell Palmer Career Management Center to prepare for fall recruiting cycles.

The Broad College is consistently recognized among the best accounting programs in the U.S., with its accounting program ranked #11 among public institutions by U.S. News & World Report. This reputation, combined with strong employer relationships and a global alumni network, positions graduates for success from day one.

The program also creates a new entry point into the Broad network for students who may not have studied business as undergraduates.

With access to career services, peer mentorship and alumni connections, students gain the support needed to navigate an accelerated, one-year program and transition into the workforce.

“Being the language of business, accounting is a foundational discipline that supports decision-making across every industry,” said Isabel Wang, chairperson of the Department of Accounting and Information Systems. “By opening this program to non-accounting majors, we’re expanding the pipeline of talent and preparing graduates who can bring new perspectives to a rapidly evolving profession.”

Applications for the fall 2026 cohort are currently being accepted on a rolling basis, with a deadline in early August. Students from all non-accounting undergraduate majors are encouraged to apply.

Learn more about the program and apply today at the webpage.