MBA - Accounting
Master of Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting
Completion of Lincoln's graduate accounting curriculum further prepares graduates for certifications in accounting. The curriculum design, small class sizes, and individual instruction contribute to the success of our Accounting majors. Our graduates are in demand for top accounting career opportunities.
Delivery Format
Program Length
Start Terms
Program Basics
The Accounting emphasis prepares students for advanced careers in accounting and financial management while supporting eligibility for professional certifications such as CPA, CMA, and CIA. The program integrates rigorous accounting theory with applied financial analysis and reporting skills.
Accounting Skills
- Financial reporting and analysis
- Auditing and compliance
- Tax preparation and planning
- Regulatory and ethical decision-making
Core Courses
- ACC 543 Managerial Accounting (3)
- BAD 501 Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods (3)
- BAD 550 Corporate Finance (3)
- BAD 565 International Business (3)
- BAD 570 Operations and Supply Chain Management (3)
- BAD 573 Organizational Behavior and Administration (3)
- BAD 585 Business Strategy (3)
- ECO 525 Managerial Economics (3)
- MKT 526 Marketing Planning and Strategy (3)
- TOTAL HOURS - 27
Emphasis Courses
- International Accounting
- Internal Auditing
- MBA Accounting Internship
- Special Topics in Accounting
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75.
- Completed LU graduate application packet.
- Statement of purpose related to your program of interest.
- Letters of recommendation (3).
Accounting Emphasis Prerequisite Courses
- ACC 345 Individual Income Tax
- ACC 346 Intermediate Accounting I
- ACC 347 Intermediate Accounting II
(or equivalent with grade of C or better)
- Class scheduling: Fully online
- Typical course load per semester: 9 hours
- Online learning platform: Canvas-based courses
How to Apply
- Complete online application at LincolnU.edu
- Submit all required documents (transcripts, letters of recommendation, goal statement, resume)
- Pay a $30 application fee
- Application review by Graduate Studies and program faculty
- Once all documents are submitted, we request 10 business days for departments to review the application packet and respond.
- Admission decision notification
- Applicants will receive a notification letter with information regarding their admission status via their personal email. If admitted, this letter will include information regarding their student ID and University e-mail.
- Schedule a meeting with an advisor.
Don't know where to start? Contact Grad Studies at GradSchool@LincolnU.edu for guidance.
The federal financial aid eligibility deadline is July 1
Learn more about financial aid options
Graduate Studies Cost Calculator
Career Outcomes and Expectations
Accounting Careers
- Public or corporate accountant
- Auditor
- Government accountant
- Controller
- Chief financial officer
Accounting Certification Pathway
The Accounting emphasis supports progress toward the 150-hour requirement for CPA licensure when combined with undergraduate coursework or additional credits.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, but you must complete specific prerequisite courses before enrolling in upper-level accounting coursework. These include Intermediate Accounting I & II and Individual Income Tax (or equivalent courses with a grade of “C” or better).
Yes. The Accounting emphasis is designed to support preparation for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam. However, CPA licensure requirements vary by state, and students are responsible for confirming eligibility with their state board. Many states require 150 total credit hours, which may require additional coursework beyond the MBA.
Students may reach the 150-hour requirement by combining their undergraduate degree with the MBA Accounting emphasis or by completing additional coursework. Some students also pursue a second undergraduate major or additional graduate credits to meet this requirement.
In addition to the CPA, this emphasis can support preparation for:
- Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
- Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
- Students should review specific certification requirements to ensure alignment.