The UIS master’s degree in accounting provides advanced studies in accounting and related disciplines chosen by the student based on individual objectives. The degree is designed to enhance communication and critical thinking skills. A master’s degree in accounting enables students to achieve professional careers in the field, as well as to assume leadership roles in the public, private and government sectors. This program provides foundational knowledge for students preparing to sit for the CPA exam. Additional coursework and professional experience may be required to obtain the CPA license. There are several accounting scholarships offered specifically to accounting students.

Learning Outcomes

  • Apply technical competencies regarding accounting decisions and practices
  • Use data analytics and problem-solving skills within the accounting functional areas
  • Communicate effectively in business and accounting writing and plan and deliver oral presentations
  • Evaluate ethical issues that confront business and accounting professionals
  • Demonstrate effective teamwork skills
  • Mastery in financial reporting, auditing and taxation
  • Develop ethical reasoning in accounting practices
  • Apply accounting principles to business decision-making

Quick Facts

Tuition
On-campus: $5,340/yr*
Online: $5,764/yr*
Duration
2 years
Credit Hours
30

Accreditation

Accounting, MA Accreditation

Calendar

Don't miss an important date or deadline

Designed for working professionals, UIS programs feature multiple start dates per year, so you can begin at the time that best fits your schedule and complete your degree quickly. View the Academic Calendar

Now Enrolling

Apply by Date:
December 28, 2026

Start Date:
January 11, 2027

Apply Today!

Tuition & Aid

UIS is the most affordable option to earning your University of Illinois degree. Earn a world-class education for less than you’d expect.

Tuition Estimates

On-campus $5,340/yr*
Online $5,764/yr*

Based on 30 credit hours over 2 years.

*These numbers represent an estimate of the in-state tuition cost for this program and do not include fees. To get an estimate of the full cost of attendance check out the cost of attendance page and/or use the tuition calculator.

Admissions

Applying to UIS is simple

We've streamlined our admission process to save you time and effort. Just follow the steps below.

 

Review admission requirements

No specific admission requirements are listed at this time. Please contact the Office of Admission for more information.

International students, will you need an F-1 student visa to study on campus at UIS? Please review the International Applicants site for additional information.

Complete your application

An email address is required to create an account. To submit a paper application, visit the Resources & Forms page. Find more information about what type of student you are on the Student Types page. Applying for an online program is the same procedure as applying for an on-campus program.

Send your official transcripts

Email your official or certified academic records/transcripts to incomingtranscripts@uis.edu or through any of the major transcript platforms. Photocopies will not be accepted.

Submit required statements/writing sample

If you are a first-year student, a statement of 250-650 words is required for admission. We want to hear about your professional aspirations, intellectual interests, and personal experiences relevant to your choice of a specific academic program. You can upload the required documents on your application status page.

Pay your application fee

You can submit your non-refundable application fee online, after completing the online application. Alternately, it can also be mailed to the university, payable to University of Illinois Springfield.

Domestic students: Undergraduate - $50, Graduate - $60;

International students: Undergraduate - $60, Graduate - $75.

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Courses & Catalog Information

Career Outlook & Potential Earnings

Graduates of this program may find opportunities in the following careers. Data sourced from O*NET OnLine by the U.S. Department of Labor.

Accountants and Auditors

Bright Outlook

Examine, analyze, and interpret accounting records to prepare financial statements, give advice, or audit and evaluate statements prepared by others. Install or advise on systems of recording costs or

Median Annual Wage $83,680
Wage Range $56,020 – $144,090
Projected Growth Bright
Top Skills:
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Active Listening
  • Critical Thinking

Appraisers of Personal and Business Property

Appraise and estimate the fair value of tangible personal or business property, such as jewelry, art, antiques, collectibles, and equipment. May also appraise land.

Median Annual Wage $67,960
Wage Range $40,030 – $122,660
Projected Growth Average
Top Skills:
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Critical Thinking
  • Writing
Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree, Some college, no degree, Associate’s degree

Budget Analysts

Examine budget estimates for completeness, accuracy, and conformance with procedures and regulations. Analyze budgeting and accounting reports.

Median Annual Wage $91,640
Wage Range $62,250 – $136,660
Projected Growth Below Average
Top Skills:
  • Critical Thinking
  • Mathematics
  • Active Listening
Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree, High school diploma or equivalent, Master’s degree

Credit Analysts

Analyze credit data and financial statements of individuals or firms to determine the degree of risk involved in extending credit or lending money. Prepare reports with credit information for use in d

Median Annual Wage $83,510
Wage Range $56,250 – $169,230
Projected Growth Below Average
Top Skills:
  • Critical Thinking
  • Active Learning
  • Reading Comprehension
Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree

Financial Risk Specialists

Bright Outlook

Analyze and measure exposure to credit and market risk threatening the assets, earning capacity, or economic state of an organization. May make recommendations to limit risk.

Median Annual Wage $117,330
Wage Range $64,820 – $196,110
Projected Growth Bright

Financial Examiners

Bright Outlook

Enforce or ensure compliance with laws and regulations governing financial and securities institutions and financial and real estate transactions. May examine, verify, or authenticate records.

Median Annual Wage $94,160
Wage Range $56,230 – $174,200
Projected Growth Bright
Top Skills:
  • Critical Thinking
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Active Listening
Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree, Post-baccalaureate certificate, Master’s degree
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2026-08-24
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