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Students
Tuition Fee
Start Date
Medium of studying
On campus
Duration
12 months
Program Facts
Program Details
Degree
Masters
Major
Accounting | Auditing | Forensic Accounting
Area of study
Business and Administration
Education type
On campus
Timing
Full time
Course Language
English
About Program

Program Overview


Master of Science in Forensic Accounting

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Forensic Accounting is a graduate degree program that prepares students to investigate white-collar crime and financial fraud. The program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and meets the 150-hour education requirement for initial CPA licensure in New York.


Program of Study

The program consists of 30 credits and can be completed in two semesters of full-time study. The curriculum includes:


  • Statistical Methods for Forensic Accounting and Assurance
  • Fraud Examination
  • Financial Statement Fraud and Corporate Governance
  • Digital Forensics
  • Financial Statement Analysis
  • Advanced Cost Management
  • Auditing of Advanced Accounting Systems
  • Research Seminar in Accounting
  • One accounting elective
  • One business elective

Career Paths

Forensic accountants analyze financial records, trace funds, locate hidden assets, investigate transactions, and interview people involved with white-collar crimes. Sample job titles include:


  • Forensic Accountant
  • Forensic Auditor
  • Certified Fraud Examiner
  • Associate Forensic Advisor
  • Risk Assurance Associate
  • Investigative Auditor
  • Director of Loss Prevention
  • Fraud Investigator
  • Bankruptcy Analyst
  • Compliance Officer

Sample potential employers include:


  • The Big Four: Deloitte, Ernst & Young, KPMG, PricewaterhouseCoopers
  • Mid-Size Firms: Baker-Tilly, BDO Seidman, CBIZ, Citrin Cooperman, Grant Thornton, Mazars, RSM, Hilltop, UHY Advisors
  • Corporations: Bain Capital, Cantor Fitzgerald, Comcast, Ayco (division of Goldman Sachs), IBM, MGM Resorts, Moody's, Showtime Networks, Viacom, Xerox
  • New York State Government: Office of the State Comptroller, Office of the Attorney General, Department of State, Division of Criminal Justice Services, Department of Taxation and Finance
  • United States Federal Government: Department of the Treasury, Internal Revenue Service, Department of Defense, Government Accountability Office, Securities and Exchange Commission

Admissions Requirements

  • Transcripts from all schools attended
  • Three Letters of Recommendation (one academic reference is required, but two academic references are preferred)
  • Resume
  • Statement of Goals (one to two pages discussing what you have to offer the program and what you wish to get out of the program)
  • GMAT Official Scores (a waiver will be applied for students who have a GPA of 3.5 or higher)

Student Learning Objectives

  • Demonstrate proficiency in the interpretation and application of the typical techniques utilized to manipulate and misrepresent the financial condition of the company.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the legal and regulatory environment surrounding the detection of employee and management fraud in the corporate setting.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the ethical responsibilities of accountants and the importance of ethics in the financial reporting process.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the impact of the global business environment on the practice of forensic accounting.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the impact of technology on the practice of forensic accounting.
  • Demonstrate an ability to communicate complex forensic accounting issues.
  • Demonstrate an ability to critically analyze complex reporting environments with respect to fraud.

Supplemental Degree Programs

Graduate students can typically request a supplemental degree in one or more subordinate degrees without needing to go through the full admissions process again. Supplemental programs available with this degree include:


  • Africana Studies CGS
  • Community College Leadership CGS
  • Demography CGS
  • Information Security CGS
  • International Education Management CGS

Program Outline


Degree Overview:


Master of Science in Forensic Accounting (MSFA)

  • Overview:
  • This program equips graduates with the skills to investigate white-collar crimes such as money laundering, insurance fraud, and embezzlement. Students learn to analyze financial records, trace funds, locate hidden assets, and interview suspects. The curriculum emphasizes both public accounting practice and advanced topics relevant to forensic accounting, preparing graduates for prestigious certifications in the field.
  • Objectives:
  • Interpret and apply techniques used to manipulate financial statements.
  • Understand legal and regulatory aspects of detecting fraud.
  • Appreciate ethical considerations in financial reporting.
  • Analyze complex reporting environments for potential fraud.
  • Communicate forensic accounting issues effectively.

Outline:


Program of Study:

  • 30-credit program
  • Completion time: 2 semesters (full-time)

Curriculum:

  • Required Courses:
  • Statistical Methods for Forensic Accounting
  • Fraud Examination
  • Financial Statement Fraud and Corporate Governance
  • Digital Forensics
  • Financial Statement Analysis
  • Advanced Cost Management
  • Auditing of Advanced Accounting Systems
  • Research Seminar in Accounting
  • One accounting elective
  • One business elective

Assessment:


The program utilizes several assessment methods

  • Exams: Assess student understanding of core concepts and application.
  • Projects and Assignments: Evaluate research and analytical skills, problem-solving, and written and oral communication.
  • Case Studies: Analyze real-world scenarios and apply theoretical knowledge to solve complex challenges.

Teaching:


Approach:

  • Interactive and blended learning: Combines lectures, discussions, group activities, and case studies.
  • Strong faculty: Experienced professors with expertise in accounting, finance, and forensic investigation bring real-world experience to the classroom.
  • Access to research: Opportunity to participate in faculty research or independent research projects.

Careers:


Career Paths:

  • Forensic Accountant
  • Forensic Auditor
  • Certified Fraud Examiner
  • Investigative Auditor
  • Director of Loss Prevention
  • Fraud Investigator
  • Bankruptcy Analyst
  • Compliance Officer

Potential Employers:

  • Big Four accounting firms
  • Mid-size accounting firms
  • Corporations
  • Government agencies
  • Sample opportunities highlighted:
  • Ally Kiefer ( '17 ): Staff Accountant with enhanced fraud detection and prevention expertise acquired through MSFA.

Other:

  • The MSFA program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and meets education requirements for CPA licensure in New York.
  • The program is open to international students with a March 1 application deadline.
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About University
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Overview:

University at Albany, also known as the University at Albany - State University of New York, is a public research university located in Albany, New York. It is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system and has a long history, having been established in 1844. The university is known for its diverse academic programs, strong research focus, and commitment to public engagement.


Services Offered:

The university offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

    Academic Advising:

    Provides guidance and support to students in choosing courses, planning their academic careers, and navigating university resources.

    Libraries:

    Offers access to a vast collection of books, journals, databases, and other research materials.

    Career Services:

    Assists students in exploring career options, developing job search skills, and connecting with potential employers.

    Student Life:

    Provides opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, clubs, organizations, and social events.

    Residential Life:

    Offers on-campus housing options for students, fostering a sense of community and providing support services.

    Dining:

    Provides a variety of dining options on campus, catering to different dietary needs and preferences.

    Athletics:

    Offers a variety of intercollegiate sports programs for students to participate in or cheer for.

Student Life and Campus Experience:

Students at University at Albany can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university offers a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, clubs, organizations, and social events. The campus is located in a city setting, providing easy access to cultural attractions, entertainment venues, and dining options.


Key Reasons to Study There:

    Diverse Academic Programs:

    The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, allowing students to pursue their interests and career goals.

    Strong Research Focus:

    The university is a leading research institution, providing students with opportunities to engage in research projects and collaborate with faculty experts.

    Commitment to Public Engagement:

    The university is deeply committed to serving the community and addressing societal challenges through research, outreach, and public service initiatives.

    Faculty Access:

    The university has a low student-faculty ratio, ensuring that students have ample opportunities to interact with and learn from their professors.

Academic Programs:

The university offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

    Undergraduate Programs:

    Over 50 undergraduate majors across various disciplines, including the arts, sciences, humanities, social sciences, business, education, and engineering.

    Graduate Programs:

    A wide range of graduate programs, including master's and doctoral degrees, in fields such as business, education, public health, criminal justice, and the sciences.

    Online Learning:

    Offers a variety of online courses and programs for students who prefer flexible learning options.

Other:

The university has a strong alumni network, with over 195,000 alumni who support the university and its students. The university is also home to a number of research centers and institutes, focusing on areas such as nanotechnology, public health, and environmental science.

Total programs
265
Average ranking globally
#425
Average ranking in the country
#129
Admission Requirements

Entry Requirements:


U.S. Students:

  • NYSED-approved undergraduate degree in accounting: This degree must be from an accredited U.S. university or its equivalent.
  • Specific coursework: The degree must include 24 accounting credits and 36 business-elective credits.
  • GPA: While not explicitly stated, a strong GPA will likely be required for admission.

International Students:

  • NYSED-approved undergraduate degree in accounting: This degree must be from an accredited U.S. university or its equivalent.
  • Specific coursework: The degree must include 24 accounting credits and 36 business-elective credits.
  • English proficiency: International students must demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE scores.
  • The minimum score requirements are not specified.
  • March 1

Additional Notes:

  • Students who have been convicted of a felony should contact the Dean's Office of the program for guidance, as their criminal history may impact their ability to complete program requirements or meet licensure requirements for certain professions.

Language Proficiency Requirements:

While not explicitly stated, international students are likely required to demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE scores. The minimum score requirements are not specified.


Entry Requirements Summary:


All Students:

  • NYSED-approved undergraduate degree in accounting
  • 24 accounting credits and 36 business-elective credits
  • Application deadline: March 1

Additional Notes:

  • Felony convictions may impact eligibility.
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