Accounting (Doctoral) at Michigan State University

Programme overview

The Ph.D. in Accounting at Michigan State University's Broad College of Business prepares doctoral candidates to become researchers and educators at top research universities. The programme keeps about 12 full-time, in-residence students and emphasises collaborative research between doctoral students and faculty.

Faculty: Eli Broad College of Business | Department: Department of Accounting and Information Systems | Duration: Five years for most students; some complete in four years | Intake: Fall (August) only, full-time | Study mode: full-time | Location: East Lansing, MI, United States

What you will study

Students take PhD-level microeconomics in the first semester, four Doctoral Seminars in Accounting Research (ACC 950) covering auditing, financial and managerial accounting and taxation, a minor of at least 9 credits (e.g. microeconomics, finance, organizational behavior, operations management or psychology) and at least 12 credits of research-methods and statistics courses. Students without an AACSB-accredited business degree complete business core coursework. The programme includes two research projects, a three-part comprehensive exam and a dissertation defended before a committee of at least four members.

Career pathways

Accounting professors and researchers at research universities; graduates also hold distinguished chairs, journal editorships, department chair and dean positions, and national accounting policy-making roles.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

At least a bachelor's degree from a recognised institution and a superior academic record; GMAT required, minimum score 600 (less than five years old); TOEFL minimum 100 (internet), 250 (computer) or 600 (paper) for applicants whose first language is not English, even with a US degree (less than two years old); three letters of reference; statement of personal goals (no more than two double-spaced pages) covering accounting interests, fit with MSU and career objectives; transcripts from all prior degrees. Decisions weigh GMAT scores, business work experience, GPA, recommendation letters and the personal essay; interviews may be requested. Application deadline January 15, with earlier submission recommended.

Tuition is charged per credit, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

Intake: Fall (August) only, full-time

Duration: Five years for most students; some complete in four years

Apply through the official page: https://admissions.msu.edu/apply/graduate-students

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