Northcentral University recently revamped its accounting program. Instead of a Master of Science in Accounting, you can now earn your Master of Accounting degree at NCU. To find out more about this change, we asked Associate Professor Angela Busila, PhD, CPA (IL), accounting expert at NCU.
What’s the difference between the Master of Science in accounting and Master of Accounting?
There is very little difference in the curricula of an MSA program and a MACC program. Some MSA programs may have more science or math content in the coursework. MACC programs focus on accounting rules, regulations, and procedures in the coursework. As well, MACC describes our program better for employers who are looking to hire our graduates
What do students learn in NCU’s MACC program?
The NCU MACC curriculum prepares students to work in the accounting profession. Course work in financial accounting, managerial accounting, individual and corporate taxation, cost accounting, and auditing are required. In addition, courses in accounting information system controls, accounting data analytics, and tax planning will be added options for the changes to the CPA exam in 2024.
The NCU program also prepares students for other certification options such as the CMA (Certified Management Accountant), the CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor), CIA (Certified Internal Auditor), and the ER (Enrolled Agent).
Who should consider enrolling in the MACC?
Anyone considering a career change to accounting should enroll in the NCU MACC program. For a student with an undergraduate degree outside of business, NCU offers the leveling courses needed to prepare students for the MACC courses.
In addition, anyone seeking to meet the 150-hour education requirement for CPA certification should consider the NCU MACC. With the NCU MACC, students interact one-to-one with industry experienced faculty while meeting the educational requirements for CPA certification.
About the Author
Dr. Angela Busila has been a licensed CPA since 1989 and has held positions in public accounting and industry as a controller and CFO and in government as an auditor. Most recently she has advised entrepreneurs and small business owners in implementing and maintaining accounting internal controls and accounting information systems such as QuickBooks and free web-based applications. In 2016, Dr. Busila passed the CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor) exam.
Dr. Busila has been teaching in higher education full time since 1999, including at Old Dominion University, Metropolitan State University, Regis University, and Elmhurst College. However, she believes that NCU is the best university she has taught at because of the one-to-one teaching through engagement model.
Dr. Busila currently lives in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains near the Shenandoah River in West Virginia. She enjoys walking in nature every day with her dog Arrow who is a very spoiled princess pittie mix. She also enjoys watching and attending sporting events and is a life-long Kansas City Chiefs fan.