Program Overview

Master of Science in Taxation Program

The Master of Science in Taxation (MST) program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of taxation principles and practices. The program is offered by the David Nazarian College of Business and Economics at California State University, Northridge.

Program Overview

The MST program is a 30-unit cohort-based program that can be completed in 1.5 years. The program is designed for working professionals and offers a flexible schedule with no classes during busy tax seasons. The program meets California's 150-hour requirement for CPA licensure.

Admission Requirements

To apply to the MST program, applicants must:

• Submit an online application
• Have a four-year baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution
• Submit a personal statement describing their professional, academic, or personal background and how an MST will assist them in advancing their career
• Submit a resume
• Submit original or certified copies of all academic transcripts
• Submit two letters of recommendation from previous professors or supervisors
• Successfully complete an introduction to federal income taxation course and a financial accounting course from an accredited institution

Program Requirements

To graduate from the MST program, students must:

• Complete a minimum of 30 semester units of approved graduate courses
• Complete all coursework with a GPA of at least 3.0
• Complete Directed Comprehensive Studies in Taxation
• Be fully classified at the time of graduation

Curriculum

The MST program consists of 30 units of coursework, including:

• Core Skills (3 units): Tax Ethics, Research, and Communication
• Core Knowledge (15 units): Income Tax Concepts and Their Business Applications, Income Taxation of Corporations and Shareholders I, Income Taxation of Partnerships, Accounting Methods and Periods, and Federal Tax Procedure
• Fields of Specialization (9 units): Income Taxation of Corporations and Shareholders II, Income Taxation of Estates and Trusts, Taxation of Foreign Transactions and Taxpayers, Real Estate Taxation, State and Local Taxes, and Selected Topics in Taxation
• Tax Planning Focus (2 units): Contemporary Tax Planning Issues Seminar
• Culminating Experience (1 unit): Directed Comprehensive Studies in Taxation

Course Schedules

The program offers a cohort schedule with upcoming cohorts starting in Fall 2026, Fall 2025, and Fall 2024.

Tuition and Fees

The tuition for the MST program is $869 per unit, with a total of 30 units required to complete the program. The total tuition cost is $26,070, paid in five payments. Additional fees include a university application fee, books and supplies, and a graduation application fee.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

The program offers financial aid and scholarships to eligible students. The CSUN Financial Empowerment Fellowship provides up to $9,000 to deserving students who demonstrate academic excellence and promise. Other scholarship opportunities are available through the AICPA, CalCPA, and the Accounting and Financial Women's Alliance.