Master of Professional Accountancy Online

Elevate your understanding of advanced accounting principles and practices. This comprehensive program helps prepare you to sit for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam.

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Program Overview

How does a Master of Professional Accountancy prepare you for the CPA exam?

Rise as an accounting expert with the Master of Professional Accountancy online program. This flexible, AACSB-accredited program provides an affordable route toward earning your CPA, with a robust curriculum aligned with the topics covered on the exam. It is ideal both for recent accounting graduates as well as those who have been working in the accounting field for years and are seeking upward career mobility. Courses are 100% online and designed to prepare you with the skills and knowledge to sit for the CPA exam.

Gain an advanced understanding of financial analysis, accounting information systems, management control systems, taxation, auditing and more. You will also study international business, marketing analysis, leadership and management.

An undergraduate degree in accounting or graduate degree in an accounting-related field is required for admission into this program.

Pitt State’s online Master of Professional Accountancy emphasizes advanced accounting knowledge in auditing, taxation and financial reporting, with coursework aligned to CPA Exam topics. It may be a strong fit for applicants with an accounting background who want to deepen technical expertise. If you are seeking a broader combination of accounting, leadership and business strategy, consider the online MBA in Accounting.

In the online Master of Professional Accountancy program, you will:

  • Analyze financial statements, extracting actionable data to make sound business and investment decisions
  • Explore the financial statement auditing process as it applies to public, private and nonprofit entities, including risk assessment, professional auditing standards and assurance services
  • Study financial strategy and taxation that impacts individuals and businesses, including capital gains, corporate transactions and partnerships
  • Use case studies to demonstrate an understanding of how to design, implement and assess management control systems
  • Understand the legal and ethical responsibilities of auditors
  • Gain leadership, critical-thinking, and team-building skills that drive organizational motivation and productivity
In the online Master of Professional Accountancy program, you will:+
  • Analyze financial statements, extracting actionable data to make sound business and investment decisions
  • Explore the financial statement auditing process as it applies to public, private and nonprofit entities, including risk assessment, professional auditing standards and assurance services
  • Study financial strategy and taxation that impacts individuals and businesses, including capital gains, corporate transactions and partnerships
  • Use case studies to demonstrate an understanding of how to design, implement and assess management control systems
  • Understand the legal and ethical responsibilities of auditors
  • Gain leadership, critical-thinking, and team-building skills that drive organizational motivation and productivity

Potential accounting career paths for graduates include roles such as:

  • Auditor
  • Tax Accountant
  • Internal Auditor
  • Financial Analyst
  • Forensic Accountant
  • Financial Reporting Analyst
  • Cost Accountant
  • Governmental Accountant
Potential accounting career paths for graduates include roles such as:+
  • Auditor
  • Tax Accountant
  • Internal Auditor
  • Financial Analyst
  • Forensic Accountant
  • Financial Reporting Analyst
  • Cost Accountant
  • Governmental Accountant

MPAcc or MBA in Accounting?

The MPAcc is designed for deeper accounting specialization and CPA-focused study. The MBA in Accounting combines accounting with management, strategy and leadership coursework for professionals pursuing broader business and financial leadership opportunities. Compare both programs to find the right fit.

$11,970* Total Tuition
As few as 12 months Duration
30 Credit Hours

Accreditation

AACSB logo

The Gladys A. Kelce College of Business at Pittsburg State University is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International).

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Need More Information?

Call 888-712-3017

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Tuition

How much does the online Master of Professional Accountancy cost?

Pittsburg State University offers affordable tuition prices. Tuition for the professional accountancy degree is the same for in-state and out-of-state students.

*Pittsburg State University’s tuition rates and fees are reviewed annually by the Kansas Board of Regents and subject to change prior to each new academic year.

View additional tuition information +

Program Per Credit Hour Per Course Per Program
MPAcc $399 $1,197 $11,970*

Tuition breakdown:

$11,970* Total Tuition
$399 Per Credit Hour

Calendar

When can you start the online Master of Professional Accountancy program?

This MPAcc program is delivered in an online format ideal for working professionals, conveniently featuring multiple start dates each year. Get started at PSU—choose the date that works for you.

Please note that all tuition payments are due at 8 a.m. on the day of the Tuition Deadline.

View full calendar +

TermProgram Start DateApplication DeadlineDocument DeadlineRegistration DeadlineTuition DeadlineLast Class Day
Fall 210/12/269/28/2610/5/2610/7/2610/9/2611/27/26
Spring 11/19/271/13/271/12/271/13/271/15/273/5/27
Spring 23/15/273/1/273/8/273/10/273/12/274/30/27
Summer6/7/275/14/275/31/276/2/276/4/277/23/27

Now enrolling:

1/13/27 Apply Date
1/19/27 Class Starts

Have questions or need more information about our online programs?

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Ready to take the rewarding path toward earning your degree online?

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Admissions

Do you need a GMAT to apply for the Master of Professional Accountancy?

We value your experience. An undergraduate degree in accounting or a master’s degree in an accounting-related field gives you a foundation for success in the MPAcc online program from Pittsburg State University, meaning no prerequisites or leveling courses are required. Please review these admission requirements so you can get started on your online Master of Professional Accountancy program.

Should I choose the MPAcc or MBA in Accounting?

Consider the MPAcc if you already have an accounting background and want advanced study in auditing, tax and financial reporting, particularly in support of CPA preparation. Consider the MBA in Accounting if you want to pair accounting skills with a broader business and leadership curriculum.

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree in accounting from a United States accredited institution
  • 3.0 GPA or higher
  • Resume
  • No GMAT or GRE required
  • No prerequisite or foundation courses required

The MPAcc requires an undergraduate degree in an accounting-related field. Applicants interested in graduate accounting study who do not meet this requirement may want to explore Pitt State’s online Online MBA in Accounting, which does not require an undergraduate degree in accounting.

View all admission requirements for domestic students +

  • Bachelor’s degree in accounting from a United States accredited institution
    • Students nearing completion of their undergraduate accounting degree may apply for conditional admission to the online MPAcc program. However, they will not be permitted to begin coursework until their official transcript has been received.
  • 3.0 GPA or higher
    • 2.7-2.9 GPA may be considered with additional support materials requested by the admissions committee
  • Resume
  • No GMAT or GRE required
  • No prerequisite or foundation courses required
  • A $35 application fee is required of all applicants

Note: Prospective KCOB Graduate Assistants and dual-degree/exchange students are not eligible to apply to the online MPAcc program.

Official Transcripts directly from all colleges/universities attended and other documents should be mailed to:

Pittsburg State University

Graduate and Continuing Studies

ATTN: Janet Miller

1701 South Broadway Street

Pittsburg, KS 66762

Official electronic transcripts can be emailed to Janet Miller at [email protected]

Pittsburg State University reserves the right to request that applicants provide supplemental application materials as needed (i.e., letter of recommendation).


View all admission requirements for international students +

International Applicants must meet all of the admission requirements for domestic students as well as the following:

  • Provide official post-secondary transcript(s) from each college or university attended
  • Students with foreign transcripts must submit an original course-by-course evaluation by a NACES accredited evaluation agency (ex: WES or ECE)
  • English proficiency requirement
  • Students must meet one of the following language requirements:
    • TOEFL score of 550/79
    • IELTS overall band score of 6.5 with no band score below 5.5
    • PTE score of 53
    • Duolingo score of 110 with no section score below 100
    • For admission purposes, tests scores are valid for two years from the date of examination
  • English proficiency waivers/exemptions are available for students who meet the following:
    • Completion of 24 credit hours at an English-speaking institution/academic program (must be able to be verified by Pittsburg State University staff)
    • Students whose native language is English and who are citizens of the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, English-speaking Canada, and some Caribbean islands.
  • $35 application fee
  • A copy of your passport or government issued photo ID could be required to cross check your full, correct legal name

Pittsburg State University reserves the right to request that applicants provide supplemental application materials as needed (i.e., letter of recommendation).

Please note that enrollment in our online program requires unrestricted access to technology such as a computer or laptop, webcam, speakers and microphone. In addition, you will need reliable access to the internet. Extensive firewall limitations, particularly outside the U.S., may impede your ability to participate in required course activities.

The Pittsburg State online MPAcc program permits international students to apply and enroll when accepted while residing outside of the United States. The online MPAcc program is not qualified to admit students who wish to enter the United States through a student visa, nor does it qualify a student for work authorization in the United States, such as in Optional Practical Training (OPT) programs.

Courses

How do MPAcc courses align with CPA exam topics?

Expand All [+]

You must take the following courses:

Duration: 7 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
The tax research process and the sources of tax authorities are focused upon to provide the tools to answer specific federal tax questions.
Duration: 7 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
A case-study course that focuses on using corporate financial statements to make business and investment decisions. Emphasis is on practical application and special attention is given to cultivating critical thinking skills, analytical skills, and the ability to effectively communicate analyses to interested parties.
Duration: 7 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Focuses on the design, evaluation, and effective implementation of management control systems using a case-based format.
Duration: 7 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
An applied study of the financial statement auditing process. Includes assessment of financial accounting system risks and controls, professional auditing standards, auditors' ethical and legal responsibilities, and other assurance services provided by public accountants.
Duration: 7 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
A study of the accounting procedures for state and local governmental entities and nonprofit organizations, emphasizing generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and required financial statements.
Duration: 7 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
A study in income tax transactions that impact individuals and business entities, including selected topics in capital gains transactions, corporate transactions, and partnerships.
Duration: 7 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Concepts and methods for incorporating global variables and conditions into the strategic decision-making of the firm.
Duration: 7 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
An in-depth study of leadership, organizational design and the interactions between individuals, groups and organizations. Emphasis will be given to an experiential exercise in leadership and team-building. Other topics include organizational behavior, motivation, HRM, and other management processes.
Duration: 7 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Management-oriented approach to marketing analysis and planning emphasizing the behavioral sciences, and economics and marketing theory.
Duration: 7 Weeks weeks
Credit Hours: 3
Financial management of the firm, emphasizing financial planning, capital budgeting and cost of capital. Case method.

MPAcc Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. The online MPAcc at Pittsburg State University is built around the CPA exam. The curriculum is directly aligned with CPA exam topics including auditing and attestation, tax research and regulations, financial statement analysis, governmental accounting, and financial strategy. Completing the 30-credit program satisfies the 150-semester-hour education requirement to sit for the CPA exam in most U.S. states.
Total tuition for Pitt State's online MPAcc program is $11,970, charged at $399 per credit hour across 30 credit hours — or $1,197 per 3-credit course. Tuition is the same for both in-state and out-of-state students, making it one of the most affordable AACSB-accredited online master's in accounting programs available.
A Master of Professional Accountancy (MPAcc) focuses on specialized accounting study, including auditing, taxation and financial reporting, with coursework aligned to CPA exam preparation. An MBA in Accounting combines advanced accounting coursework with broader business strategy, management and leadership studies. If your goal is to deepen your accounting expertise and prepare for the CPA exam, the MPAcc may be the more direct path. If you're seeking accounting knowledge paired with broader business and leadership skills, the MBA in Accounting may be a better fit. Both programs are offered by Pitt State at the same $11,970 total tuition.
Pitt State's online MPAcc can be completed in as few as 12 months. The program consists of 30 credit hours delivered through 10 courses, each 7 weeks long. With multiple start dates each year — including Spring, Summer, and Fall terms — you can begin and pace the program around your schedule.
A cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher is required for admission to Pitt State's online MPAcc program. Applicants with a GPA between 2.7 and 2.9 may still be considered with additional support materials requested by the admissions committee.
Yes. Pitt State's online MPAcc is offered through the Gladys A. Kelce College of Business, which holds full AACSB International accreditation. AACSB accreditation is the highest standard in business education, held by fewer than 5% of business schools worldwide. It signals to employers that your degree meets rigorous academic and professional standards.
Yes. Pitt State's online MPAcc is specifically designed for working professionals. All coursework is 100% online with no required campus visits. Courses are delivered in 7-week formats across multiple start dates each year, allowing you to fit graduate study around your existing work and personal schedule.
Graduates of Pitt State's online MPAcc are prepared for advanced roles across public accounting, corporate finance, government, and nonprofit sectors. Common career paths include: Auditor, Tax Accountant, Internal Auditor, Financial Analyst, Forensic Accountant, Financial Reporting Analyst, Cost Accountant, and Governmental Accountant. The CPA-aligned curriculum also positions graduates to sit for the CPA exam and pursue licensure.
Yes. Pitt State's online MPAcc requires a bachelor's degree in accounting from a U.S.-accredited institution, or a master's degree in an accounting-related field. No prerequisite or leveling courses are required beyond your existing accounting degree — you can begin graduate coursework immediately.
Yes. Pittsburg State University charges the same tuition rate regardless of where you live. At $399 per credit hour, both in-state and out-of-state students pay $11,970 total for the 30-credit MPAcc program. Tuition rates are reviewed annually by the Kansas Board of Regents and are subject to change.
A master's degree in accounting is not necessarily required to become a CPA. However, CPA exam eligibility and licensure requirements vary by state and may include specific education, examination and professional experience requirements. Some states require 150 semester credit hours of education for licensure, which exceeds the 120 hours typically earned through a bachelor's degree. Pittsburg State University's online Master of Professional Accountancy (MPAcc) offers an affordable way to earn additional graduate credits while developing advanced accounting knowledge aligned with CPA exam topics. Completing an MPAcc does not automatically qualify graduates for CPA licensure, so prospective students should confirm the requirements with their state board of accountancy before enrolling.
Yes. Students who are close to completing their undergraduate accounting degree may apply for conditional admission. You will not be permitted to begin coursework until your official transcript confirming degree completion has been received by Pittsburg State University.

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