Accounting and Analytics, M.S.
Master of Science
About this program
The Master of Science in Accounting and Analytics prepares you for leadership roles in accounting with a focus on data-driven decision-making. You will study areas such as financial and managerial accounting, ethics, auditing, and accounting data analytics. The program also builds your skills in problem-solving, teamwork, and communication. With flexible electives and preparation for CPA licensure, you can tailor your studies to match your professional goals in today’s technology-driven accounting field.
Program Curriculum and Requirements
Program Scope
The Master of Science Accounting and Analytics (MSAA) program is a STEM-designated graduate degree that integrates advanced accounting and data analytics. It builds technical and professional skills in areas such as auditing, taxation, ethics, and management—preparing graduates for careers across business, government, and nonprofit sectors.
STEM Designation: Beginning Spring 2026, international students may qualify for up to 36 months of Optional Practical Training (OPT).
Why Choose the MSAA at SFSU — in the Heart of San Francisco
- Up to 36 months of OPT for international students
- Gain advanced accounting and analytics skills in a leading financial and tech hub
- Prepare for CPA exam, leadership, and career growth across the Bay Area and beyond
- Access diverse scholarships and dedicated faculty mentorship
Fast-track MS in Accounting and Analytics
For applicants who qualify for the fast-track path, the MSAA program can be completed with as few as 10 courses. To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Hold a four-year bachelor’s degree in business from an AACSB-accredited school
- Have completed the bachelor’s degree within seven years of starting the MSAA program
- Earned a 3.0 GPA in the last 60-units of the undergraduate degree
Applicants who meet these requirements will have all 700-level MSAA courses waived.
Flexible MS in Accounting and Analytics
- Designed for working professionals seeking part-time study
- Open to students with a four-year, non-business bachelor’s degree
- Convenient late afternoon/evening classes
- Flexible learning modes available (online and in-person classes)
- Customize your own schedule
Program Learning Outcomes
- The student will demonstrate accounting knowledge by creating and analyzing financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
- Demonstrate the ability to create and apply relevant accounting tools to analyze business decisions in various functions (e.g. marketing, finance, human resources).
- Demonstrate knowledge of contemporary trends in the profession and their impact on multiple stakeholders (e.g. management, stockholders, employees, investors, and the community).
- The student will be an effective communicator and team member.
- Deliver an effective, organized, and persuasive oral presentation.
- Collaborate effectively in a team environment.
- Create and deliver clear and well-organized documentations.
- The student will be a critical thinker and an analytical problem solver.
- Utilize quantitative and qualitative analysis to critically engage with accounting problems.
- Identify and analyze modern issues at the intersection of accounting and technology.
- The student will actively address international and ethical challenges that accountants face in their professional roles.
- Recognize ethical dilemmas and apply relevant professional conduct codes to resolve them responsibly.
- Demonstrate a clear understanding of global issues impacting accountants and respond to them with ethical integrity.
Admissions Information
The admissions committee reviews an applicant's overall qualifications and takes the following requirements into consideration.
Required for all applicants:
- completion of a degree equivalent to a four-year U.S. bachelor’s degree from a recognized university
- grade point average: final GPA of bachelor’s degree, or the last 60 semester units or 90 quarter units of college coursework completed, must be at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale). Or earned a master’s degree with a 3.0 GPA. Applicants with a GPA between 2.75 and 2.99 may be admitted on an exceptional basis
- Resume
- Transcripts
- Statement of Purpose
- Letter of Recommendation (LOR) - Optional
- GMAT/GRE Test Score - not required (strongly encouraged for applicants with a GPA below 3.0)
Applicants who demonstrate outstanding professional experience but do not meet some of the above criteria may still be admitted into the program, conditional upon completing additional requirements that will be listed in the admissions offer.
Applicants who demonstrate outstanding professional experience but do not meet some of the above criteria may still be admitted into the program, conditional upon completing additional requirements that will be listed in the admissions offer.
English Language Proficiency Test
An English Language Proficiency Test is required of all applicants who have earned their undergraduate degree from a country where the official language is not English. Any of the following tests taken within the past two years are accepted:
- TOEFL Internet-Based Test minimum score of 88 (taken before January 2026) or 4.5 (taken after January 2026)
- IELTS score of at least 6.5
- Pearson Test of English (PTE) minimum academic overall score of 59
- Duolingo English Test minimum score of 120*
*Our admissions department strongly recommends that applicants take the TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE English Test. Applicants should only submit Duolingo English Test scores if none of the other examinations are available to them.
International Student Admissions
Students who feel they may need additional English language skills training may consider studying first at San Francisco State University’s American Language Institute (ALI)
At ALI, students have the opportunity to improve:
- lecture listening
- note-taking
- oral presentation
- academic advancement in reading and writing skills
In addition, students become better oriented with the American educational system. Attending the ALI program is strongly recommended if students have not met the GMAT verbal or TOEFL requirements, or to improve their English proficiency and academic skills in preparation for graduate studies.
An English Language Proficiency Test is required of all applicants who have earned their undergraduate degree from a country where the official language is not English. Any of the following tests taken within the past two years are accepted:
- TOEFL Internet-Based Test minimum score of 88 (taken before January 2026) or 4.5 (taken after January 2026)
- IELTS score of at least 6.5
- Pearson Test of English (PTE) minimum academic overall score of 59
- Duolingo English Test minimum score of 120*
*Our admissions department strongly recommends that applicants take the TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE English Test. Applicants should only submit Duolingo English Test scores if none of the other examinations are available to them.
International Student Admissions
Students who feel they may need additional English language skills training may consider studying first at San Francisco State University’s American Language Institute (ALI)
At ALI, students have the opportunity to improve:
- lecture listening
- note-taking
- oral presentation
- academic advancement in reading and writing skills
In addition, students become better oriented with the American educational system. Attending the ALI program is strongly recommended if students have not met the GMAT verbal or TOEFL requirements, or to improve their English proficiency and academic skills in preparation for graduate studies.
Spring 2026 admission: November 15, 2025
Fall 2026 admission: May 1, 2026
Ready to apply? Visit the Graduate Students page to get started.
Graduate Business Programs Inquiry Form
We’re Here to Help
Questions about the program or how to apply? Don’t hesitate to reach out.
Graduate Business Programs Admissions
Give us a call, send an email, or visit our office: San Francisco State University Downtown Campus, 198 McAllister Street, 2nd Floor, San Francisco, CA 94102. Office Hours: Monday–Thursday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Amy Chang
- Professor
- Graduate Coordinator