Accounting Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (C.A.G.S.)

Deepen your expertise in accounting with an advanced graduate certificate from Rowan University, in-person and created for experienced professionals in business and finance.

A Rohrer College of Business student poses for a photo outside of Business Hall on Rowan University's main campus.

Why choose Rowan’s accounting certificate program?

Today’s accounting professionals are navigating a career field that’s shaped by evolving standards, advancing technology and increasing complexity.

If you already hold a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree or a master’s degree in a related business field, Rowan University’s Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS) in accounting offers a practical and efficient way to strengthen your expertise and stay ahead of industry shifts. This certificate builds on what you already know, helping you grow into new responsibilities or prepare for certification and leadership opportunities.

Through advanced coursework offered by Rowan’s Rohrer College of Business, you’ll gain new knowledge and elevate your current skill set. Rohrer is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)—a distinction held by fewer than 5% of business schools worldwide. The certificate program’s flexible design allows you to personalize your learning around your goals in areas like managerial accounting, taxation, financial reporting, compliance and more. It’s a streamlined way to unlock opportunities and step confidently into what’s next.

Key Considerations

This graduate accounting certificate was designed with working professionals in mind, short, focused and aligned with your goals and schedule. Review program requirements, cost and Application Deadlines.

Quick Facts

2-3

Semesters To Complete

9

Credits

Application Deadlines

7/1

Fall Entry Term

11/1

Spring Entry Term

4/1

Summer Entry Term

Studying accounting at Rowan

Rowan University accounting graduate certificate offers a customizable experience you can shape around your interests and career goals. Learn more about the curriculum, how to apply and tuition information.

What You'll Learn

Designed for professionals who already hold an MBA or equivalent master’s degree, Rowan’s accounting graduate certificate allows you to build targeted expertise without committing to another full degree. This part-time, in-person program consists of three graduate-level accounting courses (nine credits), typically completed in two to three semesters.

You’ll personalize your learning by selecting courses from an approved list that align with your goals—whether that’s enhancing your understanding of financial reporting, strengthening your knowledge in tax strategies or gaining practical experience with accounting information systems. This certificate is an ideal option for seasoned professionals looking to stay current with evolving accounting standards, prepare for leadership roles or meet continuing education or credentialing requirements.

Accounting key courses

  • Advanced Accounting Information Systems and Business Process Controls
  • Financial Statement Analysis
  • Government and Not-for-Profit Accounting
  • Introduction to Federal Taxation
  • Special Topics in Accounting

Note: The course information above is not official and is subject to change. For an official list of available courses, please review the Rowan University Academic Catalog.

Student learning outcomes

By completing an advanced graduate certificate in accounting, you will:

  • Deepen expertise in advanced accounting principles and practices.
  • Strengthen skills in managerial decision-making, financial reporting and compliance.
  • Develop proficiency in areas such as taxation and accounting information systems.

How You'll Learn

Learning happens on your schedule from wherever you are. This in-person accounting certificate program fits around your existing professional life so you can immediately apply new knowledge in your current role or future endeavors. Courses are taught by expert faculty who bring real-world accounting experience into each class. With the program’s flexible pacing and no thesis requirement, you can sharpen your skills and expand your credentials on your terms.

Admission Requirements

Applying to Rowan’s advanced graduate certificate in accounting program is straightforward—review the application process to begin. After you finish your application, someone from the Rowan University Office of Admissions will contact you to confirm your application status or notify you of any missing items. There may be additional actions or materials required for admission to the program.

  • Completed application
  • $65 nonrefundable application fee
  • Master of Business Administration (or its equivalent) or specialized master’s degree from an AACSB-accredited institution of higher learning
  • Official transcripts from all colleges attended (regardless of number of credits earned)
  • Current professional résumé
  • Typewritten statement of professional objectives
  • In your personal statement, provide reasons for pursuing this program. Describe how you might use this program to advance your career (educational goals beyond the master's level, if applicable, are also relevant).

Tuition and Aid

At Rowan University, we pride ourselves on being vigilant and frugal about tuition. We work hard to provide quality education while seeking to reduce the barrier that college costs can present students.

Review graduate financial aid resources at Rowan.

Careers and outcomes

Our advanced graduate certificate in accounting prepares experienced business professionals like you for the next step toward what’s next in your career, whether that means taking on a leadership position, earning a promotion to a senior-level role, preparing for professional certifications such as the CPA or CMA or deepening your expertise in a specialized area. Additionally, after graduation, some students pursue other business certificates or continue their professional education to maintain licensure.
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Upcoming virtual information sessions and events

Want to learn more about Rowan University’s graduate accounting certificate, the application process or your course options? Attend a virtual information session to get your questions answered and meet Rowan faculty and staff. It’s a valuable way to discover how this certificate can elevate your expertise and fit into your professional journey.

Related programs

Explore other graduate business programs that can complement your skill set in accounting.
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Ready to learn more about Rowan?

From helping you find the right program to understanding how to apply, we’re here to make sure you get the information you need. Fill out the form to get started!
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Advance your accounting career

Rowan University’s Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study in accounting offers a focused, respected credential that ensures you stay current, meet new challenges and grow your impact in the field. We’re ready to help you go further, apply now!