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. Our admissions counselors can help you understand easy solutions to complete the requirement. Contact us by email or schedule an appointment.
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:
