Master of Science in Accountancy
Program Overview
The Master of Science in Accountancy (MSA) at Cal Poly Pomona prepares students in Southern California for advanced careers in public accounting, financial management, auditing, and taxation.
Designed for both recent graduates and working professionals, the program offers specialized, applied coursework aligned with industry standards and CPA preparation.
Students can choose between:
- General MSA (2 years)
- Accelerated MSA (1 year)
Both programs are AACSB-accredited and developed in partnership with the AICPA, ensuring relevance to today’s accounting profession.
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Fill out this form and we’ll follow up with personalized admission information, as well as invitations to campus info sessions and events.
At-A-Glance
Program Information
General MSA
- 4-year bachelor's degree
- Resume
- Personal Statement
- 2.7 or higher GPA (3.0 GPA recommended)
- GMAT score of 500+ (waived for Fall 2025 and Spring 2026)
- Official Transcripts
- TOEFL/IELTS for international student applicants
- Cal Poly Pomona English Language Institute (CPELI) offers English learning programs. CPELI level 6 is acceptable for satisfying CPP English proficiency requirement of SGSB graduate program admission purpose. Details can be found at https://www.cpp.edu/cpeli/.
Accelerated MSA
- 4-year bachelor's degree in accounting, OR bachelor's degree with advanced standing accounting coursework
- Resume
- Personal Statement
- 2.7 or higher GPA (3.0 GPA recommended)
- GMAT score of 500+ (waived for Fall 2025 and Spring 2026)
- Official Transcripts
- TOEFL/IELTS for international student applicants
- Cal Poly Pomona English Language Institute (CPELI) offers English learning programs. CPELI level 6 is acceptable for satisfying CPP English proficiency requirement of SGSB graduate program admission purpose. Details can be found at https://www.cpp.edu/cpeli/.
Visit our requirements page here for more information
General MSA: Can be completed in two academic years
Accelerated MSA: One year
Visit the curriculum page to see curriculum for both the general and accelerated MSA, and view roadmaps here
General MSA
Evening classes, Monday – Thursday, and Saturday classes
Accelerated MSA
Saturday classes only
Notice to Students: California State University programs for professions that require licensure or certification are intended to prepare the student for California licensure and certification requirements. Admission into programs for professions that require licensure and certification does not guarantee that students will obtain a license or certificate. Licensure and certification requirements are set by agencies that are not controlled by or affiliated with the California State University and licensure and certification requirements can change at any time.
Our MSA program does meet all states and territories CPA licensure education requirements.
For more information, please see:
Spring 2026
Domestic Students – November 1st, 2025
International Students – October 1st, 2025
Fall 2026
Domestic Students – July 1st, 2026
International Students – May 1st, 2026
Auditor
In auditor evaluates financial records, processes, and systems to ensure accuracy, compliance, and efficiency.
Budget Analyst
A budget analyst evaluates financial plans, monitors expenditures, and helps organizations allocate resources effectively to meet goals.
Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
A Certified Management Accountant (CMA) specializes in financial management, analyzing data to guide strategic decisions, budgeting, and performance management within an organization.
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) provides accounting services such as auditing, tax preparation, and financial consulting while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
A Chief Financial Officer (CFO) oversees an organization's financial strategy, planning, risk management, and performance to ensure financial health and growth.
Controller
A Controller manages an organization's accounting operations, including financial reporting, budgeting, and compliance with financial regulations.
Corporate Accountant
A Corporate Accountant handles a company's financial records, preparing reports, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance with accounting standards.
Taxation Systems Consultant
A Taxation Systems Consultant advises businesses on optimizing tax processes, ensuring compliance, and implementing efficient tax software and systems.
CITP Partner
As part of AICPA's Certified Information Technology Professional Credential, the CBA will incorporated AICPA's Model Information Technology Curriculum into the undergraduate accounting emphasis and Master of Science in Accountancy. Other Benefits include: A complimentary membership for students in the AICPA, which includes full access to the technology information, tools and resources. Promotion code for students and faculty to take the CITP exam at no cost while enrolled or within a year of graduation. Assistance from a designated AICPA contact to assist with questions about course materials and the CITP credential pathway.
