How long will it take to complete the Master of Accountancy Program?

That depends. Since it's a 30-hour program, full-time students who begin the program in the fall semester can complete the entire program in one (1) calendar year by taking 12 hours each in the fall and spring semesters and 6 hours during the summer. Part-time students and those requiring completion of prerequisites will take longer.

Is there a time limit for completing my degree?

Yes. All courses taken at WCU or transferred in from another institution must be completed within six years.

What are the prerequisites to the Master of Accountancy Program?

Prerequisites are Intermediate Accounting I, Income Taxes, Finance, Microeconomics, Management, and Statistics. These prerequisites can be completed at WCU or at other institutions. See table of prerequisite equivalences of area universities and community colleges.

Can I take classes at another institution and transfer them in to apply toward at degree at WCU?

Yes, with certain limitations. With advance approval of the program director, students may transfer in up to 6 hours of graduate-level credit from another regionally accredited institution. Forms are available on the website of the graduate school.

Can I take just a class or two, or do I have to be enrolled as a degree-seeking student?

Individuals may be admitted as “non-degree seeking” by applying to the graduate school and providing unofficial transcripts showing completion of an undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited institution. Upon formal application and acceptance into the program, up to 12 hours of graduate courses (with a grade of “B” or better) may later be transferred to apply toward a degree.

What computer technology is required?

Although computer labs are available on both the WCU and UNCA campuses, it is recommended that students have access to current technology (including high speed Internet access) at home and/or at work (with consent of your employer, of course). A laptop computer equipped with wireless capability is useful, but not required.

What computer skills are necessary?

A solid working knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation software is essential to getting the most out of your educational experience at WCU. We have found that most business organizations use the Microsoft suite of office products (i.e., Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).

Is there a student organization for Master of Accountancy students?

Yes, there are several organizations to serve the personal and professional needs of our Master of Accountancy students:

• The Cullowhee-based student chapter of the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) has both social and professional events for accounting students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Dues are currently $5 per semester. Faculty advisors are Dr. David Coffee and Dr. Beth Jones.
• The Western Carolina Chapter of the NCACPA (centered primarily in the greater Asheville area) offers student memberships, which are available for $20 per year, and include all benefits of regular membership, including monthly business luncheons and professional development materials and events.
• WCU is in the process of applying for a chapter charter for the internationally recognized honorary society Beta Alpha Psi. Chapter advisor will be Dr. Susan Swanger.

What resources are available to assist students in finding suitable employment?

In addition to the networking opportunities provided by participation in student organizations, several formal activities occur each academic year:

• Accounting Career Day – During fall semester each year WCU hosts employers for an interview day. Employers from business, government, and not-for-profit organizations come to campus to interview both undergraduate and graduate students for full-time, part-time, and internship positions.
• Accountancy Fall Banquet – Sponsored by many of the companies that recruit our students, the Fall Banquet is an opportunity to recognize our scholarship and award recipients; meet fellow students, alumni, advisory board members, faculty and university administration; as well as just have some fun.
• Meet the Firms Night – During spring semester each year, WCU hosts an “information fair” in the greater Asheville area where students can informally chat with company representatives.
• Career Services office at WCU – The resources of the WCU Career Services office are available to all WCU students. These include resume preparation, interviewing skills, and job search assistance. The director of career services is Ms. Mardy Ashe.