The University of California, Davis offers a Master of Accounting (MAcc) designed to prepare graduates for CPA licensure and leadership roles in public accounting, corporate finance, and consulting. In the first 80‑120 words, the program delivers a rigorous curriculum, flexible delivery formats, and strong industry connections, making it a top choice for those seeking advanced accounting expertise.
- Program Structure and Curriculum
- Core Course Sequence
- Elective Options (choose two)
- Delivery Formats
- Admissions Requirements
- Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid
- Career Outcomes and Salary Expectations
- Licensure Preparation
- Student Support and Resources
- How to Apply – Step‑by‑Step Timeline
- Why Choose UC Davis for a Master of Accounting?
Program Structure and Curriculum
The UC Davis MAcc is a 30‑credit, 12‑month program divided into three semesters. Core courses cover financial accounting, audit, tax, and managerial accounting, while electives let students specialize in areas such as forensic accounting, data analytics, or sustainability reporting.
Core Course Sequence
- Financial Accounting and Reporting
- Auditing and Assurance Services
- Taxation of Individuals and Entities
- Managerial Accounting and Decision Making
- Accounting Information Systems
Elective Options (choose two)
- Forensic Accounting
- Data Analytics for Accounting
- International Taxation
- Sustainability and Integrated Reporting
- Advanced Auditing Techniques
Delivery Formats
Students can enroll full‑time on the Davis campus or opt for the part‑time evening format, which spreads coursework over 18 months. Both tracks share identical curricula and faculty, ensuring equal academic quality.
Admissions Requirements
Admission is competitive and evaluates academic performance, quantitative aptitude, and professional potential.
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution (any major accepted)
- Minimum 3.0 GPA (higher GPA recommended for competitive applicants)
- Official GRE or GMAT scores (average accepted scores: GRE Quantitative 155+, GMAT 600+)
- Resume highlighting relevant work experience (preferably 1‑2 years in accounting or finance)
- Two letters of recommendation
- Personal statement describing career goals and fit with UC Davis
Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid
Costs are subject to annual adjustment; the figures below reflect the 2024‑2025 academic year.
| Metric | Estimate or Range | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Full‑time tuition (30 credits) | $30,600 | Resident California students |
| Full‑time tuition (30 credits) | $45,900 | Non‑resident and international students |
| Part‑time tuition (per credit) | $1,020 | Same rates for residents and non‑residents |
| Annual fees (student services, health, etc.) | $1,200 | Applies each academic year |
| Average scholarship awarded | $5,000‑$10,000 | Based on merit and need; competitive |
Career Outcomes and Salary Expectations
Graduates typically pursue CPA licensure and enter public accounting firms, corporations, or government agencies. UC Davis tracks placement for the past five years:
- 94% employed or enrolled in further study within six months
- Top hiring firms: Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG, and regional firms such as Miller Knoll
- Average first‑year salary: $78,000 (CPA‑qualified) – $92,000 (non‑CPA roles in tech or finance)
Licensure Preparation
The curriculum aligns with the 150‑hour CPA education requirement. The program includes a dedicated CPA exam review workshop and offers access to the UC Davis CPA Review Center, which provides practice exams, study groups, and faculty coaching.
Student Support and Resources
UC Davis provides a suite of resources to enhance student success:
- Career Services: resume workshops, interview prep, and employer networking events
- Accounting Society: peer mentorship, guest speaker series, and community outreach
- Research Opportunities: collaboration with the Department of Accounting faculty on applied projects
- Technology Labs: access to SAP, Oracle, and data‑analytics software
How to Apply – Step‑by‑Step Timeline
Prospective students should follow this timeline to meet typical deadlines:
| Date or Period | Event | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Early September | Application opens | Allows early submission for priority review |
| Mid‑October | GRE/GMAT test dates | Ensures scores are available for admission review |
| December 1 | Priority deadline | Higher chance of scholarship consideration |
| January 15 | Final deadline | Last date to be considered for Fall intake |
| March‑April | Admissions decisions | Gives time to arrange finances and housing |
Why Choose UC Davis for a Master of Accounting?
UC Davis combines academic rigor with a collaborative community. Its accounting faculty are recognized researchers, and the school's location near the Sacramento and San Francisco Bay Areas provides abundant internship and job opportunities. The program's strong CPA focus, flexible delivery, and robust career services make it a durable investment for accounting professionals.