The Master of Science in Accounting Data & Analytics (MSADA) program requires completion of: a minimum of 30 units (18 units in the advanced program and 12 units of elective coursework or the completion of a concentration); completion of 6 units of proficiency coursework and 15 units of accounting foundation courses or an undergraduate degree in Accounting; with a cumulative grade-point average of 3.00 or better in courses taken at Golden Gate University that are applicable to the program’s requirements. For further information regarding graduation requirements, see Degree Requirements for Graduate Programs.

All course prerequisites must be satisfied prior to enrolling in a given course and are indicated in the the course description for each course. Individual proficiency and foundation program courses may be waived for students who have an undergraduate degree in Accounting or who have previously completed comparable courses at a regionally accredited college or university. Students may not enroll in advanced program courses until they have completed the entire foundation program. Courses listed carry three semester units of credit unless otherwise noted.

ACCOUNTING FOUNDATION — 15 UNITS

Accounting foundation requirements will be waived for those students who have passed the U.S. CPA examination. Additionally, individual courses will be waived for students who completed them at GGU, or who completed comparable courses at other regionally accredited degree granting institutions, with grades of “B” or better.

ACCTG 1A

Introductory Financial Accounting (3 units)

ACCTG 1B

Introductory Managerial Accounting (3 units)

ACCTG 200A

Intermediate Accounting I (3 units)

ACCTG 200B

Intermediate Accounting II (3 units)

ACCTG 211

Auditing

ADVANCED PROGRAM — 18 UNITS

CORE REQUIRED COURSES — 12 UNITS

ACCTG 300

Accounting Research & Communication (3 units)

ACCTG 336

Introduction to Data Analytics for Accountants

ACCTG 339

Automation and Innovative Technologies

ACCTG 351C

Analysis of Financial Information for Accountants

CORE ELECTIVE COURSES — 6 UNITS

Select two ACCTG 300-level courses. Alternatively, students who do not pursue the Advanced Analytics for Accountants Concentration may select MSBA 328 in place of one of the two ACCTG courses.

ELECTIVE COURSES — 12 UNITS

Students may select any four ACCTG 300-level courses, excluding those required for the Advanced Program requirement listed above. Students can take ACCTG 398 Internship: Accounting for up to 6 units toward this requirement.

CONCENTRATIONS

• Advanced Analytics for Accountants
• CPA Applied Accounting
• Essentials of Leadership
• Taxation

Students may declare up to two concentrations in a given degree program. Students seeking to declare more than two concentrations will be required to appeal to the dean for approval. Students’ diplomas will list the concentrations that they had successfully completed at the time their degrees were conferred. Students may not declare additional concentrations after their degrees have been conferred.

CONCENTRATIONS

Students may declare up to two concentrations in a given degree program. Students seeking to declare more than two concentrations will be required to appeal to the dean for approval. Students’ diplomas will list the concentrations that they had successfully completed at the time their degrees were conferred. Students may not declare additional concentrations after their degrees have been conferred.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

All applicants should have earned an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution with at least a 3.00 grade-point average (GPA). Individuals with an undergraduate GPA below 3.00 are welcome to apply and will be considered for admission based on employment history, professional accomplishments, recommendations, etc. Certificate and open enrollment students must meet the same standards and prerequisites that apply to degree candidates.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Graduates of the Master of Science in Accounting Data & Analytics (MSADA) program will be able to:

• Identify accounting issues, research and effectively communicate the results orally and in writing.
• Demonstrate a defined body of knowledge of essential accounting principles and doctrines.
• Critically apply accounting principles to practical situations and to adapt to changing work environments.
• Make effective accounting decisions in an increasingly analytics and technology driven environment.
• Understand the business, legal, professional, and ethical context for a career as a professional accountant, including the ability to identify and appropriately act when ethical dilemmas are encountered.
• Demonstrate experience and skill in accomplishing objectives through collaboration and the use of technology tools increasing used in the accounting profession.

We are delighted that you are interested in the programs offered by the School of Accounting. Golden Gate University has been preparing accounting professionals for over 100 years, and our graduates are in positions of leadership in numerous public accounting firms and major corporations.

Our accounting program is highly relevant and focuses on skills that are in high demand. Included are concentrations aimed at helping you pass the CPA exam, developing leadership skills or advanced accounting analytics skills, or to gain a deeper understanding of taxation. Our programs, which are fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), are available both at our main San Francisco campus and online.

Should you have any questions about the School of Accounting, please feel free to contact us.

Amy B. McLellan, J.D., LL.M.
Dean, Graduate Programs (Business, Tax, Accounting)
Director, LL.M. Taxation & Estate Planning