- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university
- Open to graduates regardless of major who have a quantitative foundation with an interest in building a career in Accountancy
Master of Science in Accountancy
STEM Certified – OPT Extension Eligible #1 CPA PASS RATE More often than any school in the past 25 years #1 in BIG FOUR JOB PLACEMENT Wake Forest MSA graduates are more likely to land in the Big 4 than those from any other school 99% Employment (Class of 2025 at 6 months)
Master of Science in Accountancy (MSA) Student Day in the Life
Spend a day with Christopher Dickerson in the Wake Forest MS in Accountancy program as he balances graduate coursework, collaborates with peers, pursues his passions beyond the classroom and engages in a close-knit campus community.
Learn About MSA Program Tracks
A detailed overview of the available learning tracks, core curriculum and timelines for the Master of Science in Accountancy at the Wake Forest University School of Business.
MSA Career Outcomes
Wake Forest MSA graduates are making a difference at some of the world's top companies. Here are a few of their stories.
Living the Dream
Tynan Hamilton, MSA Graduate, Senior Accounting Analyst, Disney
As a Senior Accounting Analyst at Disney Music Group, Tynan Hamilton always dreamed of working for the Walt Disney Company and joined their Accounting and Finance Rotation Program shortly after graduation.
Crushing Personal and Professional Goals
Janelle Lewis, MSA Graduate, Audit Manager, Deloitte
Janelle Lewis is pursuing personal goals and crushing career milestones as she works as an Audit Manager at Deloitte and has completed a thru-hike of almost 2,200 miles on the Appalachian Trail.
Real Learning for The Real World
Chantal Mosley, MSA Graduate, VP, Wholesale Credit Delivery Optimization Associate, Truist
Wake Forest’s MSA program prepared me for my career by providing an environment fostered by teamwork, endurance, and dedication. Each class was thoughtfully designed to offer realistic scenarios, which I now encounter in the workplace each day.
Growth Beyond the Classroom
Ryan Risse, MSA Graduate, Senior Accountant, CWCapital
At Wake Forest I was surrounded by nurturing professors, faculty and fellow students. My network expanded and I experienced academic and professional growth, as well as personal development.
Developing the Whole Person
Alejandro Gonzalez, MSA Graduate, Senior Associate - Capital Markets & Advisory Services, PwC
I chose Wake Forest because of their renowned reputation as a graduate school and the intimate classroom experience I had with faculty throughout my undergraduate experience. The faculty at WFU truly care about the whole student. The professors are always readily available to answer questions about my career track.
The MSA Experience
Explore the Wake Forest University School of Business Master of Science in Accountancy program through the voices of students. Hear firsthand how the program fosters a close-knit community, prepares students for the CPA exam, and equips them with the skills and confidence to launch successful careers in Big Four accounting and beyond.
“At Wake, it offered the best opportunity for Double Deacs, to come back and be able to explore a program in which you already knew the students, who already knew the faculty and come back here and actually live out your passion, live out your dreams and be able to reach your goals as a professional.”
Jamarea Johnson
“As we've gone through our case studies and different projects, there's been some level of ambiguity where we've had to figure out for ourselves what's important, what we need to deliver to the client, and be able to learn for ourselves rather than just be given a set of instructions. That has helped me a lot because there's lots of gray area in business. Being able to create that skill set, I feel will benefit me in the future.”
Christian Stover
“This program has had one of the biggest impacts on me, preparing me for working for a Big Four and also just preparing me for the CPA. I feel like I've gone into this program with the mindset that I was nervous, and now I feel very confident that I can succeed in both these areas.”
Lyla Vaughn
“I wanted to get all the interdisciplinary benefits out of coming to school and have a better understanding about the fullness of the world of business. One of the great things about the Wake Forest School of Business is it puts you sort of in the center of everything and provides you an understanding of finance, private credit, accounting, auditing, tax – all of these subjects, and you have them at your fingertips.”
Christopher Dickerson
“Everyone in the program was studying for the CPA test or studying for the same classes, so we were able to study together as well as there were many opportunities to bond outside of the classroom. We did a couple of activities as a graduate program, and those were really helpful, just to build those connections within the program.”
Christian Theobald
“The highlight of my experience in this program definitely has to be the professors and my peers and how supportive I have felt throughout this entire program. My professors really helped me succeed. And I would also say being a part of the student organizations has been really fulfilling.”
Soha Fakhar
MSA Average Class Profile
Class statistics averaged over the most recent three cohorts
110
Total Students
47%
Female
21%
Underrepresented Groups
26%
International
47
Colleges/Universities Represented
17
Majors Represented
3.6
Average GPA
647
Average GMAT
MSA Ambassadors
Wake Forest MSA Ambassadors are current students who are available and eager to answer any questions you might have. Our Ambassadors know the MSA program and the path to get there better than anyone, so they can give you the first-hand student perspective you need. We encourage you to reach out any of the ambassadors listed below via email regarding questions about the program, application process, career resources, internships, life at Wake Forest, living in Winston-Salem, or any other questions you may have.
Elizabeth Bowers
Why did you choose to pursue the MSA at Wake Forest?
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Because it's a good school that will help me in whatever I end up deciding to do with my life.
What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?
There have been a lot of small moments where people have been kind or noticed me, like when someone invited me to sit and study with them the first day (and pretty much every day since) or the Mindful Mondays with Mary. I expected to struggle to make friends and connect, but that hasn't been the case at all.
What is one of your favorite spots on campus and/or Winston-Salem? Why?
I really like the house I'm staying at because of my window seat and front porch.
Nicholas Knobel
Email
City: Orlando, FL
Undergraduate School:
Wake Forest University
Major/Minor:
Accounting; Minor: Entrepreneurship
Why did you choose to pursue the MSA at Wake Forest?
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CPA requirements and building knowledge in areas that I wouldn't have been interacting in when I start work at PwC.
What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?
It's the Friday night events that are sporadically put on by students for me. It doesn't feel robotic and has helped me to ease my stresses with the new program.
What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?
I'm a big fan of Reynolda Village. I'm a photographer (or at-least when I have time), so I love the untouched look of the village and the gardens are quite lovely.
Catherine Hunter
Email
City: Charlotte, NC
Undergraduate School:
Anderson University
Major/Minor:
Accounting | Philosophy, Emergency Services
Why did you choose to pursue the MSA at Wake Forest?
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My undergrad sources masters students directly to AU, so I had a very streamlined admission process with Wake.
What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?
Bonding with my cohort!
What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?
One of my favorites is the Remedy coffee house in downtown Winston. Fairly priced and a great atmosphere.
Emma Rhodes
Why did you choose to pursue the MSA at Wake Forest?
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The program speaks for itself, after meeting some of the professors in the prgram at the graduate weekend, it helped me to understand that the professors genuinely care to see their students succeed.
What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?
The opportunities and resources available to me have helped to get started in my job search and feel more comfortable walking into interviews and networking opportunities.
What is one of your favorite spots on campus and/or Winston-Salem? Why?
Louie and Honey's Bakery, the cinnamon rolls!!
Braeden Reeder
Email
City: Rome, GA
Undergraduate School:
Anderson University
Major/Minor:
Accounting, supply chain management
Why did you choose to pursue the MSA at Wake Forest?
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I chose to pursue the MSA at Wake Forest because of the strength of the program, the community and resources it offered, and my great experiences with the recruiting team.
What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?
I chose to pursue the MSA at Wake Forest because of the strength of the program, the community and resources it offered, and my great experiences with the recruiting team.
What is one of your favorite spots on campus and/or Winston-Salem? Why?
Farrell Hall is of course an amazing building to study or just do life in. Outside of the school of business, I enjoy going to the local restaurants and hanging around on the quad on campus.
Shelby Scott
Email
City: Minneapolis , MN
Undergraduate School:
High Point University
Major/Minor:
Finance major with and Accounting minor
Why did you choose to pursue the MSA at Wake Forest?
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I chose the MSA program at Wake Forest to further prepare myself to take the CPA exam and gain additional skills to turn me into an emerging young professional. I chose Wake Forest based on its caring and devoted professors and faculty who push students to grow and be their very best. Wake's advanced curriculum and implementation of AI in the classroom were very influential.
What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?
The most impactful part of my program experiences has been the people and resources Wake Forest offers. While the program is rigorous, the numerous amounts of support you receive from your classmates and professors is extremely helpful. Wake Forest has lots of programs to help you be successful both in and outside of the classroom. The university wants you to succeed and provides you with the resources to protect your mental and physical well-being to reach your goals.
What is one of your favorite spots on campus and/or Winston-Salem? Why?
While still very new to campus and Winston-Salem, my favorite place so far would have to be Reynolda Village. Reynolda has lots of unique shops and restaurants that are within walking distance from campus. It is a great way to get a change of scenery and some exercise.
Gabriella Nabitaka
Email
City: Kampala, Uganda
Uganda
Undergraduate School:
DePaul University
Major/Minor:
Economics/ Mandarin
Why did you choose to pursue the MSA at Wake Forest?
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Initially, it was recommended by an alumni (Diffie). After doing some further research, I was attracted by the top tier faculty and the high CPA pass rate.
What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?
So far, meeting the people that make the program has been really inspiring. The professors are incredibly knowledgeable and care about their students. In addition, interacting with my peers has been great. They are all so motivated and willing to help each other out with classes and school life.
What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?
My favorite spot is the enclave room on the right side of the third floor. Its a great place to study, people watch, or have an interview.
Seth Evans
Email
City: Boiling Springs, SC
Undergraduate School:
Anderson University
Major/Minor:
Accounting and Finance Majors, Music Minor
Why did you choose to pursue the MSA at Wake Forest?
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I knew coming in that this was one of the best accounting programs in the country.
What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?
Realizing the amount there still is to learn and know about accounting.
What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?
My favorite spot on campus is the study area in Farrell on the second floor.
Sy'rai George
Why did you choose to pursue the MSA at Wake Forest?
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I chose to pursue MSA at Wake Forest because of its reputation and because the school holds the title of #1 CPA pass rate in the country. That was a big deciding factor for me as an aspiring CPA because I want to take advantage of all the resources that are available to really excel and be successful in all 4 sections
What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?
The most impactful part has been connecting with the other MSA students so quickly. I was pretty nervous coming into the program so having friends in the same courses as me has been very fulfilling.
What is one of your favorite spots on campus and/or Winston-Salem? Why?
One of my favorite spots on campus is the Sutton Recreation center because I get access to various fitness classes and machines that allow me to stay fit.
Kaitlyn Wirth
Email
City: Mooresville, NC
Undergraduate School:
UNC Wilmington
Major/Minor:
B.S. in Business Administration with an Accountancy Concentration
Why did you choose to pursue the MSA at Wake Forest?
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I chose to pursue the MSA at Wake Forest because Wake Forest had been my dream school since high school. Beyond that personal connection, I was extremely attracted to the program’s strong CPA exam success and its emphasis on preparing students for the future of the accounting profession. The focus on AI, innovative thinking, professional development, and building a strong sense of community made the program stand out to me. I wanted a program that would prepare me not only to pass the CPA exams, but also to enter my career as a more well-rounded and forward-thinking professional.
What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?
Orientation has been one of the most impactful parts of my program experience so far. It gave me the opportunity to meet so many new friends, become more comfortable with the program and its expectations, and begin building relationships with faculty and staff. Starting a new graduate program can feel overwhelming, but orientation made Wake Forest feel like a community very quickly and helped me feel much more confident and excited about the year ahead.
What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?
One of my favorite spots is Airstream because I love getting coffee there! During one of my first days at Wake Forest, I went to Airstream with some of the new friends I had just met. It is a simple memory, but it felt like one of my first real steps toward building my community here. Now, I associate it with both great coffee and the friendships I have started forming at Wake Forest.
Ashley Difuidi
Why did you choose to pursue the MSA at Wake Forest?
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I decided to pursue the MSA at Wake Forest because I wanted to be challenged and be outside my comfort zone. I also wanted to pursue the MSA at Wake Forest because I felt very welcomed here and I truly believe that Wake Forest will help me in my personal, professional, and career endeavors.
What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?
The most impactful part of the program thus far was orientation week. I liked meeting my fellow classmates as well as the professors in the program. It was very organized and it got me excited to start school again. I especially liked the integration of AI in the program and how we will be learning skills that can set us apart from other candidates.
What is one of your favorite spots on campus and/or Winston-Salem? Why?
I really like Farrell Hall because I find the building so beautiful and spacious. I like going to the lower level because there are usually free study spaces there. I enjoy the bagel place, and the living room is a great area with natural lighting.
Khylah Pugh
Email
City: Renton, WA
Undergraduate School:
Pitzer College
Major/Minor:
Science Management - Public Health
Why did you choose to pursue the MSA at Wake Forest?
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I was drawn to Wake Forest because of its top-ranked program, the breadth of resources available to students, the vast alumni and recruiting network, and the fact that the MSA program embraces diverse academic backgrounds, instilling confidence that I will be able to succeed in the program just as well as my peers who majored in accounting in undergrad.
What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?
Everyone I've met throughout the process - from my initial meetings and communications with Susie as I applied to the program, to my interview for the program with Alex Peoples and John Butler & Ann Brooks for the scholarship, to my meetings with Mary Knapp and Julie Brannon, to just a few weeks ago when I was able to finally meet other members of this year's cohort - is phenomenal. Being in the presence of people that are easy to be around, have conversations with, and are personable makes the challenging program a lot more bearable.
What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?
I've always found solace in being outdoors, so I enjoy escaping Farrell Hall and walking along the Reynolda trail - it's a nice way to take a study break and chat with friends :)
Valentina Nava Moran
Email
City: Woodstock, GA
Undergraduate School:
Berry College
Major/Minor:
Accounting and Finance; Spanish minor.
Why did you choose to pursue the MSA at Wake Forest?
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I did not have any plans to pursue a master's program until I attended Future in Focus and met all the incredible, hard-working people from Wake. Through this experience, my eyes were opened to all the opportunities out there that I did not previously believe were within my reach.
What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?
I have enjoyed getting to interact with my classmates and learning more about the other students in my program! It is so interesting to learn where everyone came from and each of our undergrad experiences, and getting to spend this year with others who are in a similar stage of life. The culture at Wake is truly welcoming and all of us feel like we belong despite knowing that we will only be here for a year.
What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?
I am still getting to know this new city and campus but one of my favorite places so far has been Reynolda Village. It is such a beautiful place for a walk and I enjoy going to the bookstore with my housemates. I also love walking the trail that connects it directly to campus. Going on walks and spending time in nature is one of my favorite ways to destress, so having such easy access to this place has been one of my favorite discoveries in the area.
Harmony Kothari
Email
City: Mumbai
India
Undergraduate School:
Transylvania University
Major/Minor:
Accounting and Psychology
Why did you choose to pursue the MSA at Wake Forest?
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I chose the MSA program because of its CPA pass rates, great faculty and its recruitment. Additionally, I also really enjoyed talking to people here.
What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?
I think my interactions with faculty members have been the most impactful because they were willing to help me out from the very beginning and have tons of information to offer. They're also very passionate about their jobs which helps me interact with material and classes better.
What is one of your favorite spots on campus and/or Winston-Salem? Why?
I think Farrell is my favorite spot because I'm able to see my friends everyday and talk to the professors easily if needed
Iyanna Jackson
Email
City: Kingston, Jamaica
Jamaica
Undergraduate School:
University of The District of Columbia
Major/Minor:
Accounting and Finance
Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?
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I chose to pursue MSA at Wake Forest because of my accounting background from undergraduate, I wanted to deepen my expertise in audit and prepare for the CPA exam and what better school than Wake Forest, which has the #1 CPA pass rate. I like that the program is highly career-focused, with the majority of students graduating with job offers, which is especially valuable in today’s competitive job market. I’ve also heard inspiring stories from alumni who shared that the MSA program prepared them for their careers, with each class thoughtfully designed around realistic scenarios they now face in the workplace every day. I love that Wake Forest truly sets students up for success.
What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?
"
I think the most impactful part of this program experience is learning the importance of being prepared for class. Reviewing materials beforehand and writing down questions helps me actively engage in discussions, clarify concepts in real time, and make the most of each class session.
Also the networking opportunities at each event that allows me to connect with students in other programs or other professionals. "
What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?
My favorite place is the study rooms in Farrell Hall, especially the large room on the second floor. I spend most of my time there because it’s very quiet, the temperature is just right, and it has a whiteboard where I can work out problems and study effectively.
MSA Events
Consider joining us for our next MSA event
Nov
13
@12:00 PM
School of Business AI Workshop: AI Once, Automate Forever
AI Once, Automate Forever Using AI to Build Repeatable Business Solutions Wake Forest School of Business faculty share how they're using AI todaypractical skills and workflows that go beyond prompting, which you can apply the next day! "AI Once, Automate Forever" will be led by Associate Teaching Professor Dr. Kyre Lahtinen. This workshop will be delivered in two formats: in-person and virtual. For those who prefer to attend in-person, the workshop will be held on the WFU Reynolda campus in Farrell Hall (room 151). For those who prefer virtual delivery, a Zoom link will be emailed the day prior to the workshop. You must select which format you prefer when registering. All workshops will be recorded and shared with registrants. No AI background is necessary to attend. Open to the WFU community and free to the public. Registration is required. You are welcome to register one guest. We hope you can join us! Additional workshops will be offered in this series. Check the School of Business calendar for details.
Nov
22
@2:00 PM
Fall Faculty and Guest Artist Dance Concert
The Fall Faculty & Guest Artist Concert will feature modern, jazz, contemporary and classical ballet choreography by our dance faculty and renowned guest choreographers, under the direction of Nina Lucas Rice. This fall faculty choreographers include Chris Martin, Tina Yarborough Liggins, Christina Soriano, Nina Lucas Rice, Chelsea Hilding, Sam Shapiro, and Kara Wilkes. Past guest artists have included: Heather Malloy artistic director of Terpsicorps Theatre of Dance; Broadway dancers Matthew Loehr and Mark Price to name a few. Tickets available starting November 10: https://theatre.wfu.edu/box-office/ticket-policy/
Nov
30
@7:00 PM
Lighting of the Quad
Join us for one of Wake Forests most cherished traditions, Lighting of the Quad! Gather on Hearn Plaza on Monday, November 30th, starting at 7:00 PM as we celebrate the holiday season with lights, music, and community spirit. Watch as the Quad glows with hundreds of lights, enjoy seasonal refreshments, and share in the joy of this beloved campus tradition with fellow Deacs.
Dec
01
@6:00 PM
School of Business Holiday Happy Hour - Charlotte
Let's Gather and Share in the Holiday Cheer! Bring your holiday cheer! The School of Business is hosting a special Holiday Happy Hour at the Pearl, the new home for the WFU Charlotte Center. Reconnect with fellow local alumni, share in the festive spirit, and make new connections over casual conversation. Your $10 registration fee includes two drink tickets (beer/wine) and appetizers. Guests are welcome, however registration is required. We encourage everyone to dress in their favorite festive holiday attire.
Dec
02
@5:00 PM
Center for Global Programs and Studies Night Market
The annual Night Market is the signature event of International Education Week (IEW), serving as a reminder that campuses play a special part in shaping the awareness of our role in global living. The Wake Forest community is encouraged to explore the value of education abroad, the richness that is brought into our classrooms and departments by international faculty, staff and students, and the benefits derived from all international programs on campus. Join us on Manchester Plaza for food, music, games, vendors and a relaxing time with friends.
Dec
02
@5:30 PM
School of Business Holiday Happy Hour - Winston-Salem
Let's Gather and Share in the Holiday Cheer! This December, the School of Business is hosting a special Holiday Happy Hour at the iconic 500 W 5th street building in downtown Winston-Salem. It's the perfect spot for a festive holiday gathering! Join local business alumni to reconnect, share in the festive spirit, and make new connections over casual conversation. Your $10 registration fee includes two drink tickets (beer/wine) and appetizers. Drop-in anytime between 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. and toast the merry season together! Guests are welcome, however registration is required. We encourage everyone to dress in their favorite holiday attire.
Articles
Review articles that highlight industry trends and career paths in Master of Science in Accountancy (MSA).
Fact vs. Fiction - The CPA Exam
Is A Masters In Accounting Worth It?
What Can I Do With A Masters In Accounting?
Earning a Masters in Accounting Versus an MBA in Finance
Exclusive Edge: Financial Markets & Transactions Track
From Internship to Impact: Wake Forest MSA's Paid Tax Season Internships
"One of the Most Beautiful Campuses in the World"
Wake Forest's stunning Georgian architecture and lush, impeccably maintained grounds offer both grandeur and tranquility, making the campus not just a setting for academic pursuit, but also a celebrated destination that embodies classic collegiate charm and natural beauty.
“With its stately Georgian architecture and meticulously landscaped gardens, Wake Forest’s campus embodies classic Southern charm.”
The 64 Most Beautiful College Campuses in America
“Wake Forest blends the built and natural worlds with steeples and domed roofs peeking out above the ground’s lush greenery and treelines.”
Most Beautiful College Campuses in America
“The Georgian-style buildings, clad in Old Virginia Brick with limestone details and decorative wrought iron, create a unified, timeless aesthetic.”
The 45 Most Beautiful College Campuses In The South
“The most recognizable campus building is the Wait Chapel, which is named after the university's founder Samuel Wait.”
25 of the Most Beautiful College Campuses In the South
“Ranked the most beautiful college campus in NC, going up against stunning school's like Duke and UNC Chapel Hill.”
The Most Beautiful Universities in the World
“Choosing a college isn’t only about academics or cost, it’s also about finding the place you’ll call home for the next few years.”
This Is the Most Beautiful College Campus in the U.S.
Winston-Salem, NC
The "City of Arts and Innovation" offers an affordable, vibrant lifestyle with a thriving arts scene, outdoor activities, and safe walkable neighborhoods.
Meet Your MSA Team
If you have any questions regarding the enrollment process, student life, faculty, curriculum or career resources, please schedule a consult. We look forward to helping you!
Dr. Jon Duchac
Delmer P. Hylton Accounting Professor; Associate Dean for Accountancy Programs; Professor
Susanne Lange (Susie)
Senior Associate Director, Enrollment Management Recruiting
Mary M. Knapp
Associate Director, MSA Integrative Student Services
Julie Brannon
Assistant Director, Market Readiness and Employment
AACSB International
The School of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International). The School of Business' Accountancy Program attained the supplemental accounting accreditation.
