Master's of Accounting (iMSA)

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Master's of Accounting (iMSA)

Gies College of Business at the University of Illinois

Accredited degree

Offered by the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

18-36 months

8 courses total, 10-15 hours per week

$21,916-$28,096 USD total cost

Depending on elective course choices

No accounting background required

Designed for students of various backgrounds

100% online

Mixture of self-paced content with engaging live classroom sessions

Transform your potential into real-world accounting success

As one of the largest suppliers of leaders in the accounting profession,  Gies graduates include legions of accounting firm partners, CFOs, entrepreneurs, and other business leaders. 

  • 74% of iMSA graduates reported that they started a better job upon graduation

  • iMSA graduates tell us they received an average raise of 22% during and immediately after their iMSA program

This MS in Accountancy will enable you to gain a competitive advantage in the job market. Future employers search for candidates who excelled in studies and also possess important non-technical professional business skills. The iMSA team designs impactful opportunities for students to develop those skills.

Accelerate your career with measurable impact
With 74% of graduates earning better jobs and an average 22% pay increase, the iMSA helps you translate learning into measurable success.
Become a sought-after accounting professional
Gain the expertise employers value most, from audit and tax to financial reporting and data analytics. Earn desirable skills and position yourself as a competitive candidate for leadership roles across industries.
Learn from one of the world’s top accounting schools
Join a global network of Gies graduates who include accounting firm partners, CFOs, entrepreneurs, and business leaders. You’ll learn from the same top-ranked faculty that powers Gies’ reputation for excellence.
Build essential professional and leadership skills
Beyond technical mastery, the iMSA empowers you to strengthen communication, teamwork, and analytical thinking. Skills that will set apart successful accounting leaders in a rapidly evolving field.

Applications for Summer 2026 applications opening soon!

  • Applications open: January 5

Upcoming Events

  • December 17: MOOCs to Master's: How to Stack Gies Business Credentials - Register here
  • January 7: Gies Online Applicant Office Hours - Register here
  • January 12: Drop-In with Gies Online: Live Office Hours - Register here

Additional resources

Questions? Please contact Gies College of Business at giesonline@illinois.edu or attend an upcoming event.

Applications will open January 5

Learn more about the program.