The master’s in accounting program at Seton Hall University has earned the endorsement of the Institute of Management Accountants, one of the largest and most respected associations focused exclusively on advancing the management accounting profession.
IMA’s Endorsement of Higher Education initiative recognizes programs that meet high educational standards, enabling students to pursue and earn the CMA (or certified management accountant) credential.
Seton Hall’s 30-credit M.S. in accounting program (known as M.S.A.C) is designed for graduates without a bachelor’s degree in accounting who are interested in financial analysis and detail-oriented work.
The program provides expertise in financial systems, auditing and tax regulations while developing the analytical and numerical skills essential for success in accounting or finance. The M.S.A.C. prepares students to sit for the CPA exam in New Jersey, New York and most other states.
Joyce Strawser, the dean of the Stillman School of Business at Seton Hall, obviously was thrilled.
“Being endorsed by IMA is a significant achievement that will better equip our students for successful careers in management accounting,” she said. “This recognition speaks to the strength of our curriculum and the value it brings — not only to our students’ future careers but also to the organizations they will serve.”
The Stillman School is also the only school in northern New Jersey with dual accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB Internation) — the highest standard of achievement for business schools and earned by only five percent of schools worldwide granting business degrees at the bachelor’s level or higher. Only 194 of these select schools maintain supplemental accreditation in accounting, with the Stillman School of Business among them.
To qualify for endorsement by IMA, schools must meet the following criteria: (1) The program must substantially cover the CMA exam content; (2) The program must have adequate faculty resources to deliver this content; (3) The program must be accredited by a recognized accreditation organization; (4) A faculty member must be designated as an IMA campus advocate.
IMA’s globally recognized CMA program is a relevant assessment of advanced accounting and financial management knowledge in areas such as financial planning, analysis, control and decision support — each of which is increasingly critical in meeting the changing needs of business and, therefore, essential learning for students of accounting and finance.
Danielle DiMeglio, the director of graduate accounting programs and instructor of accounting and taxation, said the impact of the program is huge.
“The IMA endorsement brings a new dimension to Seton Hall’s accounting program, expanding opportunities for students — especially those in our M.S.A.C. program — who are stepping into accounting for the first time,” she said.
“With a stronger focus on management accounting, this partnership opens doors to careers in financial planning, analysis and strategic decision-making, giving our students the skills and certifications needed to excel as future leaders in this area.”
With flexible options, the program offers full- and part-time enrollment, with classes available on Seton Hall’s South Orange campus and asynchronously online to suit any schedule. Full-time students can complete the program in as little as 12 months, while part-time students typically finish within two years.
