Texas Tech University

Master of Professional Accounting

The Master of Professional Accounting (MPAcc) at the Rawls College of Business is a 30-hour* graduate program launching in fall 2026, designed specifically for students without an undergraduate accounting degree who want to pursue professional careers in accounting and CPA licensure. With courses in financial accounting, auditing, taxation, accounting information systems, ethics, and business law, the MPAcc equips students with the technical knowledge and professional competencies required in today's accounting profession. Successful completion of the program meets the educational requirements to sit for the CPA Exam in Texas.

*The intermediate accounting sequence (ACCT 3304 and 3305) must be completed prior to admission. The Lyons School of Accounting offers these two courses online and in-person each summer, fall, and spring semester.

students

program highlights

 
 
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CPA-Focused Pathway

Designed for students without an undergraduate accounting degree, the MPAcc provides the academic foundation needed to sit for the CPA Exam in Texas. For students without an undergraduate business degree, Rawls College offers flexible options to complete any additional upper-level business hours online.

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Flexible Formats & Start Dates

Choose between in-person or online delivery with multiple start dates throughout the year. Full-time students can complete the program in as little as one calendar year, while part-time students progress at a pace that fits their schedule.

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Career Outcomes That Pay Off

Students benefit from strong recruiting relationships with top public accounting firms, high-paying internships often exceeding $40 per hour, and full-time starting salaries north of $75,000, positioning graduates for rapid career growth.

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Affordability Without Compromise

The MPAcc provides a low-cost pathway into the accounting profession with generous scholarship support available.

 

 

Career-Defining Curriculum

The MPAcc curriculum is designed to prepare students without an undergraduate accounting background for professional practice in public accounting, industry, consulting, and government/non-profit environments. The MPAcc curriculum maps to the content in the Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR), Auditing and Attestation (AUD), Taxation and Regulation (REG), and Information Systems and Controls (ISC) sections of the CPA Exam.  

Core courses include:

Taxation of Individuals

Taxation of Business Entities

Principles of Auditing

Audit Theory and Practice

Accounting Information Systems

Advanced Accounting Information Systems and Controls

Accounting Research and Communication

Advanced Accounting

Ethics in Accounting

Advanced Business Law

program format

 

The MPAcc program is a 30-hour master’s degree designed for students without an undergraduate accounting background and is offered in both on-campus and online formats. With multiple start dates throughout the year, the program provides flexibility for full-time and part-time students while preparing them for professional careers in accounting and CPA licensure.
 
Students develop technical and professional competencies in taxation, auditing, accounting information systems, ethics, and business law, gaining the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in public accounting, industry, and regulatory environments.

View sample degree programs »

faculty expertise

 

The Lyons School of Accounting faculty are experienced educators and industry-connected professionals with expertise across taxation, auditing, accounting information systems, ethics, and financial reporting. Their commitment to teaching excellence and applied research ensures students receive a rigorous, practice-oriented education aligned with the evolving demands of the accounting profession and CPA licensure.

Meet our faculty »

supporting your success

 
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Rawls Career Management Center

The Rawls Career Management Center (CMC) offers personalized support to help you explore career paths, connect with top employers, and develop the skills needed for career advancement in information systems and technology management.

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Techsan Connection

The Techsan Connection platform allows you to network with Texas Tech alumni and industry professionals to further boost your career prospects.

 

 

admissions

 

The admission process is the first step toward earning your degree. We will work closely with you to ensure your application process is personal, simple and successful.

Application Requirements

Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree and have successfully completed the intermediate accounting sequence (ACCT 3304 and 3305).

Unofficial Transcripts

Applicants must submit unofficial transcripts from any degree-awarding college or university, as well as any post-secondary institution attended. 

Resume

Applicants must submit a detailed current resume, indicating professional work experience—including start and end dates (month and year) for each position held. Provide accomplishments and skills acquired, including managerial experience.

Letter of Recommendation

Applicants are required to submit a formal letter of recommendation from an individual who know you in an academic capacity.

Essay

Applicants must submit an essay that outlines personal experiences, career goals, past challenges, and any other relevant information for the admissions committee to consider.

English Proficiency for International Students

All international applicants must provide proof of English proficiency before their applications can be considered for admission. Only your most recent measure of English proficiency is considered for admission purposes. This test is waived only for graduates of U.S. universities or universities in English proficiency-exempt countries. Applicants who have completed at least two consecutive years at a college or university in the U.S. or in an English proficiency-exempt country are also exempt from the English proficiency requirement.

Application Deadlines

Online:

  • Early Fall: Aug. 3, 2026
  • Late Fall: Oct. 5, 2026
  • Early Spring: Jan. 4, 2027
  • Late Spring: March 8, 2027
  • Summer: May 25, 2027

In-Person:

  • Fall: Aug. 17, 2026
  • Spring: Jan. 6, 2027
  • Summer: May 25, 2027

International students are encouraged to apply at least six months in advance when possible.

Apply Now

student resources

 

 

Matt Hart, Ph.D., CPA
Director, MPAcc Program
matt.hart@ttu.edu
806.834.2397

Kirsten Cook, Ph.D.
Director, Lyons School of Accounting
kirsten.cook@ttu.edu
806.834.7737

Events@Rawls