Accounting/MBA

The Master of Science in Accounting/MBA at Northeastern University's D'Amore-McKim School of Business combines advanced accounting knowledge with practical business management and leadership skills. Designed particularly for recent graduates and early-career professionals, including those without an undergraduate background in accounting, the 15-month programme helps students build expertise in financial reporting, auditing, taxation and business analytics while gaining valuable professional experience through a paid corporate residency at a leading accounting firm.

Curriculum Structure

The programme follows an intensive 15-month structure, combining accounting courses, MBA subjects, an analytics concentration and a three-month corporate residency. Students progress through summer, fall and spring terms before completing their final summer coursework, developing both technical accounting expertise and a broader understanding of business management.

First Summer – Accounting and Business Foundations

Students begin by developing a strong foundation in financial reporting and organisational management. Through Corporate Financial Reporting I (ACCT 6220) and Managing the Organization (HRMG 6318), they learn how businesses prepare financial statements and manage their people and resources. They also study Corporate Financial Reporting II (ACCT 6221), Innovating and Creating Futures (INNO 6318) and Business Analytics (BUSN 6365), gaining an understanding of business innovation and how data can support financial and managerial decisions.

Fall Semester – Financial Reporting, Auditing and Taxation

The fall semester focuses on developing essential accounting and analytical skills. Students study Corporate and Governmental/Non-Profit Financial Reporting and Decision Making (ACCT 6222), Audit and Other Assurance Services (ACCT 6223) and Taxation of Individual and Business Entities (ACCT 6224). These subjects help them understand financial regulations, auditing procedures and taxation across different types of organisations. They also explore Information Systems and Technology (MGSC 6201) and Information Visuals and Dashboards for Business (MISM 6210), learning how technology and data visualisation support modern accounting practices.

Winter – Corporate Residency

Students undertake a paid, three-month corporate residency at a leading accounting firm, typically during the industry's busy season from January to March. They work on actual business assignments, contribute to accounting and auditing projects and learn from experienced professionals. This experience helps them understand workplace expectations, strengthen their technical abilities and build professional connections that can support their future careers.

Spring Semester – Strategic Accounting and Business Operations

After completing their residency, students return to academic study and explore how accounting connects with wider business operations. Courses such as Strategic Cost Management (ACCT 6226), Supply Chain Management (SCHM 6318) and Customer Value and the Enterprise (MKTG 6318) help them understand cost control, operational efficiency and customer-focused business decisions. They learn how financial information and business strategies work together to improve organisational performance.

Final Summer – Advanced Accounting, Analytics and Strategy

In the final stage, students deepen their knowledge of accounting regulations, financial management and analytical technologies. Courses include Corporate Governance (ACCT 6217), Accounting for Business Combinations (ACCT 6227), Financial Management (FINA 6318) and Data Mining and Machine Learning for Business (MISM 6212). They also study Contemporary Issues in Accounting Theory (ACCT 6228), Business Law and Professional Ethics (MGMT 6211) and Strategic Planning for the Future (STRT 6318), along with a business elective. These subjects help students develop the financial, analytical and management skills needed to take on greater responsibilities in the accounting profession.

Focus Areas

Financial Accounting, Corporate Financial Reporting, Auditing, Taxation, Accounting Theory, Corporate Governance, Business Analytics, Data Mining, Machine Learning, Financial Management, Strategic Cost Management, Information Systems, Data Visualisation, Business Law, Professional Ethics, Supply Chain Management, Business Strategy, Organisational Management and Financial Decision-Making.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be able to prepare and interpret financial statements, evaluate financial performance and apply accounting principles across different types of organisations. They will develop practical knowledge of auditing, taxation, corporate governance and financial reporting while learning to use data analytics, machine learning and information systems to solve accounting and business challenges. The programme also strengthens strategic thinking, communication, leadership and professional decision-making skills, preparing students to manage financial responsibilities and contribute to organisational growth.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

• AACSB Accreditation: Northeastern University's D'Amore-McKim School of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), an internationally recognised accreditation body for business schools.

• CPA Preparation: The programme provides accounting coursework that helps students prepare for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) examination and pursue professional accounting careers. Students should check the specific educational and licensing requirements of the state where they intend to practise.

• Industry Collaboration: The curriculum is developed in collaboration with leading accounting firms, helping students gain knowledge and practical skills relevant to the accounting profession.

• Professional Experience: The paid corporate residency provides exposure to real accounting assignments and workplace practices at leading firms.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

• Graduate Employment: Northeastern reports a 95% job placement rate for MS in Accounting/MBA graduates over the past five years, with graduates securing employment within three months of graduation.

• Corporate Residency: Around 95% of eligible students secure a corporate residency, and 90% of those students receive full-time job offers from their residency firms.

• Paid Industry Experience: Students earn an average of approximately USD 15,400 during their three-month corporate residency.

• Leading Employers: Previous corporate residency opportunities have included Deloitte, EY, KPMG and PwC.

• Career Opportunities: Graduates can pursue roles such as Staff Accountant, Senior Accountant, Audit Associate, Tax Consultant, Financial Analyst, Forensic Accountant, Internal Auditor and Accounting Manager.

• Alumni Network: The D'Amore-McKim Graduate School of Professional Accounting has more than 4,000 alumni, many of whom actively recruit graduates.

Programme Classification: This is a combined dual-degree programme leading to a Master of Science in Accounting and a Master of Business Administration (MBA). It is a single integrated programme rather than two separately enrolled degrees.