Penn State Great Valley launches Master of Professional Accounting program

MALVERN, Pa. — According to the Pennsylvania Department of Labor, accounting jobs are on the rise. Between 2014 and 2024, employment opportunities are expected to grow by nearly 10 percent. To help area professionals jumpstart their accounting career, Penn State Great Valley is offering a new master of professional accounting degree.

Launching in fall 2018, the 30-credit program is designed for individuals pursuing CPA licensure or an occupation in public accounting or corporate finance. Courses examine competencies covered in the CPA exam, including regulation, financial accounting and reporting, audition and regulation, and business environment and concepts.

“A master of public accounting degree can provide bigger and better career opportunities,” said Bo Ouyang, associate professor of accounting and the professor-in-charge of the program. “To become a certified public accountant in Pennsylvania, you must have 150 credit hours of education, and most undergraduate programs only provide 120 hours. This program is ideal for those looking to satisfy the remaining credit hours or advance their qualifications for promotions.”

The program culminates in a capstone course that focuses on a current issue in regulation. Building upon previous coursework, students will gain a big-picture understanding of accounting trends as they cultivate their presentation, problem solving, and critical thinking skills.

For students attending classes full-time, the master of professional accounting program can be completed in as little as one year.

Applications are currently open to start in fall 2018. Individuals interested in learning more are encouraged to attend an Open House from 5 to 7 p.m.on Tuesday, March 13. Registration is available on the Great Valley website.