MBA with an Accounting Concentration

Are you ready to advance your career in the world of accounting? Willamette's MBA program with an accounting concentration might just be the key to unlocking your financial leadership potential. Whether you're interested in managerial accounting, financial accounting, or forensic accounting,  set yourself up for long-term success.

Pursue an MBA concentration in accounting

In the ever-evolving landscape of business and finance, having a deep understanding of accounting principles is invaluable. Willamette University sees the need for an MBA program with a specialized accounting concentration. Our accounting concentration is here to meet the demands of today's financial managers and professionals.

We designed our MBA accounting concentration with students at the center. Not only will you elevate your understanding of accounting beyond simple financial statements and bookkeeping, but you will also be immersed in the nuanced world of managerial accounting. This ensures that you have the knowledge and problem-solving skills to make impactful business decisions. Our focus is on nurturing your ability to communicate transparently with stakeholders, underlining the significance of clear financial reporting.

• Build skills with our MBA accounting concentration

  Students pursuing an MBA with an accounting concentration also benefit from the Atkinson Accounting and Finance Association. This vibrant community offers a platform for networking, leadership development, and access to valuable resources. It's not just a student organization; it's a bridge to a thriving professional network. Discuss cost accounting, financial accounting and reporting, and capital structure tactics.

  Dive into corporate governance principles, work through complex ethical problems, and build your skillset. Our students have gone on to pass the CPA exam, the CFE exam, the CMA exam, and the CIA exam. 

• Practical experience with real clients

  The accounting concentration stands out for its commitment to hands-on learning. Through elective courses, students collaborate with actual clients, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. This real-world experience not only reinforces concepts learned in the classroom but also sharpens essential skills for the professional world.

• Foundation courses and tailored electives

  Our wide selection of elective courses allows you to tailor your education to your career and goals. Students will have the opportunity to gain experience by reviewing case studies, managing funds, and working with clients. Some of the MBA accounting courses include:

  • GSM 5105 - Accounting for Managers
    • Go through the process of journal entries, work through financial reports, and analyze financial statements. Students can gain knowledge to make better pricing, investing, and budgeting decisions through this course. 
  • GSM 6013A/B Philanthropic Investment for Community Impact (two-semester course)
    • In this course, students manage a micro-organization. Students will award funds to local nonprofit organizations with high-impact social programs. It's an opportunity to understand the philanthropic landscape, gain management experience, and develop various skills.
  • GSM 6206 - Financial Statement Analysis
    • In this practical, hands-on course, students learn to read financial statements from businesses and nonprofit organizations. Students become proficient at assessing financial prospects, risks, and capacities, using various data analysis tools.
  • GSM 7251 - Internship (must be an internship in Accounting)
    • For those seeking real-world experience, this internship course allows you to apply what you've learned through professional settings. It's a chance to integrate theory with practice and gain valuable insights into the accounting profession.

  If you're looking for an accounting focus within your graduate degree, these courses will help you stand out. Even through our accounting concentration, students will still learn the fundamentals of marketing, finance, and management systems.

  However, our MBA program prepares students for all types of career options. We go beyond accounting, offering a deeper grasp of all things related to business and management. This approach will prepare you for a versatile career so that you can move up the ladder. Prepare for any career through our course options.

Professional certification pathways

Our MBA courses also align with some of the requirements for professional certifications. These certifications include the Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), Certified Managerial Accountant (CMA), Certified Public Accountant (CPA), and Certified Internal Auditor (CIA). Students interested in pursuing any certification should verify specific requirements with the relevant professional associations or governing bodies. Review credit hour information to discover additional coursework you might need to qualify for these certifications.

Plan your path to success

These courses provide an overview of the Accounting concentration within the MBA program. It's important to note that specific course offerings may vary from year to year. Therefore, it's advisable to consult the program administrators to plan your academic journey effectively.

Our career advisors and faculty members can also help you plan your path. We'll suggest course options, connect you with internships, and help you navigate the interview process. No matter what you need, we will offer the type of support you need to take the next step in your career.

Gain more from our MBA

Our program is different than other MBA programs. While you can choose to pursue an accounting specialization, our curriculum is holistic. We believe that learning more about the many facets of business can elevate your career growth and potential. 

We're more than just a business school, we're a school of management. We focus on hands-on learning to prepare students for a career. Students can earn credits through internships and apply classroom lectures to real-world scenarios.

Our professors are also your advocates. Our career service team are your guides. Every staff and faculty member at Willamette is here to help you thrive. Whether you need to practice your interviewing skills or you’re seeking experience in a specific field, we can help.

Students interested in accounting can get the practical experience and education they need to compete in the job market. We don't just offer an MBA program; we invest in your success and career journey.

We offer merit-based scholarships, MBA named scholarships, fellowship programs, and financial aid to make your MBA more affordable. We also have locations in both Portland and Salem to connect students with more options and a larger network.

Apply to our MBA Program