UVA’s School of Continuing and Professional Studies recently launched a graduate-level accounting certificate. This fully online program is designed to help both newcomers to accounting as well as mid-level professionals advance their careers in accounting, prepare for the CPA exam, and gain expertise in areas like auditing, taxation, commercial law, and managerial finance.
Q: How do students benefit from the program?
- Career Advancement: Whether you're entering the field or looking to move up, the certificate equips you with in-demand skills.
- CPA Preparation: Courses fulfill advanced accounting coursework requirements for CPA exam candidacy (however you should check your state’s specific requirements).
- Flexible Learning: Learn while balancing personal and professional responsibilities.
- Expert Faculty: Instructors are industry professionals who understand the needs of adult learners.
- Same Tuition for All: In-state and out-of-state students pay the same rate.
- Synchronous Online Classes: Engage with instructors and peers in real time.
Graduate-level Accounting webpage
Q: What does the curriculum include?
A: The program consists of 24 graduate credits across 8 courses. Required courses include:
- Intermediate Accounting I & II
- Accounting Information Systems
- Introductory Auditing
- Introduction to Taxation
Electives include: (choose based on interest)
- Managerial and Cost Accounting
- Advanced Auditing
- Fraud Examination
- Forensic Accounting
- Corporate Governance and Ethics
- Federal Accounting
…and more.
Q: How long does it take to complete the program?
A: You can finish in as little as 15 months by taking two courses per term. However, students with full-time jobs are encouraged to start with one course per semester until they complete intermediate-level coursework.
Q: What are the admission requirements?
A:
- A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.
- Submission of unofficial transcripts with the application (official transcripts required upon admission).
- Completion of Introductory Financial Accounting (ACCT 3010) or equivalent within the past five years.
- If you haven’t completed this prerequisite yet, we still encourage to you submit an application. Once you’ve applied, we can help you determine a path forward to complete the requirement and receive admission to the program. These paths include:
- Enroll in and complete ACCT 3010 with UVA SCPS as a visiting student prior to your term of admission.
- If you are located within Virginia, enroll in ACC 211 within the Virginia Community College system.
- Enroll in and complete an equivalent course at a regionally accredited college or university. We can work with you to ensure the course satisfies the prerequisite requirement.
- If you haven’t completed this prerequisite yet, we still encourage to you submit an application. Once you’ve applied, we can help you determine a path forward to complete the requirement and receive admission to the program. These paths include:
Q: When can students begin, and what are the deadlines?
A: The program has three start dates: January, May, and August.
Application deadlines include:
- November 1 (for a January / Spring start)
- April 1 (for a May / Summer start)
- Jul 1 (for an August / Fall start)
Q: What is the cost of the program?
A:
- Tuition: $629 per credit hour + $12 fee per credit hour
- Total Estimated Cost: $15,384 for the full program
- Payment Plans: Interest-free semester-based plans are available
- Scholarships: May be available
Q: Will this program help me get licensed as a CPA?
A: Yes, the coursework contributes to CPA exam eligibility. However, students must verify licensure requirements in their specific state. You will want to refer to the AICPA and NASBA directories.
Q: What kind of support will I receive as a student?
A:
- Academic Advising: Personalized program plans and guidance
- Technology Support: 24/7 help via Canvas and UVA IT Services
- Career Resources: Job prep, networking, and employment trend insights
- Mental Health Services: Free access to TimelyCare, a virtual mental health platform
Q: Who teaches the courses?
A: You’ll benefit from seasoned accounting and finance professionals like Gary Brooks, Richard Evans, and Bret Hood, all of whom bring real-world experience and a passion for teaching adult learners to the classroom.
Q: How do I apply?
A: Visit the Graduate-level Accounting webpage to learn more and begin your application. You’ll need to submit transcripts and meet the prerequisites. You can also take up to two courses as a Visiting Student before formally applying.
Final Thought:
If you're looking to boost your accounting credentials, prepare for the CPA exam, or transition into a new career path with flexible and compelling instruction, then consider UVA’s Graduate-Level Accounting Certificate.
Explore how UVA's online graduate-level accounting certificate can advance your career:
