This is a one-year (30-credit) certificate program designed for those already holding a baccalaureate to continue their education and achieve their career goals with a solid foundation in accounting. The program accepts students with baccalaureate degrees in any field. There are two certificate tracks depending on the undergraduate major.
For those with degrees in a non-business major, the program will provide an intensive introduction to the accounting discipline. It is appropriate for individuals with current or expected future responsibilities in a managerial position to acquire the accounting skills essential for career advancement. Those employed in the engineering, legal, or medical professions with career goals towards management may find an accounting certificate particularly helpful.
For those holding a baccalaureate degree in a business major, there is an opportunity to acquire the credentials for a career in accounting by taking advanced courses in addition to obtaining a solid foundation in the discipline. Completion of this track in the certificate program qualifies a graduate to sit for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam in the State of Massachusetts as well as in many other states that have recently instituted the 150 hour credit requirement. The 30 credits earned in the certificate program can be used in conjunction with the 120 credits awarded in the standard undergraduate degree program to satisfy the requirements The curriculum covered in the program is also excellent preparation for taking the examination of the designation as a Certified Management Accountant (CMA).
Entrance to the Program
Applicants apply for acceptance to the PBCA Program through the Graduate Studies Office. Applicants follow the procedures for acceptance into the MBA, but in a curtailed form. They fill out the same application form as do MBA applicants and supply an essay and official transcripts of their college and other graduate degrees. However, they are not required to submit GMAT scores or recommendation letters.
Certificate recipients who wish to apply for admission to the MBA program must follow the application requirements and process described in the Graduate Catalogue. GMAT scores may be waived for students who complete the certificate program with a GPA of 3.5 or higher with no “C” grades.
Requirements