Master of Accountancy (M.Acy.) Major in Accounting (Taxation Concentration)

ACC 5315. Selected Topics in Financial Accounting.

This course examines specialized financial accounting topics in financial reporting, including pensions and post-retirement benefits, deferred taxes, derivatives, share-based payments, and interim and segment reporting. It focuses on the application and analysis of accounting standards relevant to these areas and includes content aligned with the Financial Accounting and Reporting section of the CPA Exam. The course emphasizes interpretation of authoritative guidance and analysis of complex financial reporting issues encountered in auditing, taxation, and corporate accounting contexts. Prerequisite: ACC 3314 with a grade of “C” or better.

ACC 5316. Advanced Accounting.

This course provides an advanced study of accounting for business combinations and consolidated financial statements, with an emphasis on complex accounting issues encountered in practice. Students will learn to prepare consolidated financial statements. Topics may include mergers, acquisitions, foreign currency transactions, partnerships, segment and interim reporting, SEC reporting, and other advanced reporting matters. Students consult authoritative guidance and evaluate alternative accounting treatments to interpret financial reporting issues, support judgment, and communicate recommendations in a clear and professional manner. Prerequisite: ACC 3313 with a grade of “B” or better.

ACC 5320. Auditing.

This course provides an advanced study of auditing with emphasis on complex judgment, professional responsibilities, and emerging issues in practice. Students examine challenging audit areas identified by regulators, evaluate threats to professional judgment and decision-making, and consider the auditor’s ethical and legal responsibilities to business and society. The course also explores the use of data analytics in audit procedures and develops the ability to research, analyze, and communicate current auditing and regulatory issues in written and oral formats. Content aligns with topics included in the Auditing section of the CPA Exam. Prerequisite: ACC 4313 and ACC 3314 with a grade of "B" or better.

ACC 5323. Accounting Data Analytics.

This course examines the concepts, methods, and practical issues involved in applying data analytics to accounting problems. Topics include data cleaning, transformation, analysis, visualization, and interpretation of complex datasets. The course incorporates the use of software tools and applied exercises to analyze data in various accounting contexts. It also includes statistical analysis techniques and methods for communicating analytical approaches, results, and implications relevant to accounting and business decision-making. Prerequisite: ACC 3313 with a grade of "C" or better.

ACC 5340. Individual Income Tax.

A study of the tax concepts and issues involved in an individual’s employment and personal life, and in sole proprietorships, property transactions, tax administration and tax practice. Regulatory and ethical issues are incorporated into the discussion. Students cannot receive credit for ACC 5340 towards any master's degree in the McCoy College of Business if they have already taken and received credit for ACC 3308 or a course equivalent to ACC 3308 (taken at another institution). Prerequisite: ACC 3313 with a grade of “B” or better.

ACC 5350. Professional Accounting Research.

This course focuses on methods used to research, analyze, and resolve complex accounting issues using generally accepted accounting principles and authoritative professional guidance. Emphasis is placed on identifying relevant accounting literature, conducting research using the Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification, and documenting supported conclusions. The course includes communication of accounting research findings and the integration of conceptual accounting theory and technical knowledge in the analysis of case-based accounting problems. Prerequisite: ACC 3314 with a grade of “B” or better.

ACC 5352. Financial Statement Reporting and Analysis.

This course examines the principles and practices of financial statement reporting and analysis. It covers methods used to analyze and interpret financial reports for assessing firm performance. Topics include the structure, meaning, and limitations of financial statements, as well as analytical frameworks used to evaluate historical and current financial and non-financial information. The course also addresses forecasting techniques and the communication of financial analysis results in business contexts such as investment and lending decisions. Prerequisite: ACC 3305 or ACC 5361 either with a grade of "B" or better.

ACC 5355. IT Auditing.

This course examines contemporary IT audit practices with an emphasis on planning, collecting, and evaluating evidence related to the strategic, operational, and compliance objectives of information systems. Topics include system governance, risk management, internal controls, data integrity, and operational effectiveness. The course addresses the application of professional audit standards and methodologies used to evaluate information systems and related controls within organizational environments. Prerequisite: ACC 3305 with a grade of "B" or better.

ACC 5357. Regulation and Professionalism.

This course advances knowledge of taxation, business law, and regulatory issues relevant to the accounting profession. Emphasis is placed on expanding federal taxation concepts introduced in prior coursework. Topics include professional and legal responsibilities of accountants, commercial law, and the legal structure of business entities. The course also addresses current developments and changes in regulatory and tax environments, including compliance requirements, reporting obligations, and emerging policy considerations affecting accounting practice and professional decision-making in the current global environment. Prerequisites: ACC 3313 and [ACC 4328 or ACC 3308] both with a grade of "B" or better. Corequisite: ACC 5366 with a grade of a "B" or better.

ACC 5358. Exploring Accounting Oversight in Washington, D.C..

This course provides an immersive learning experience in the heart of Washington, D.C. The course bridges classroom theory with real-world practice by helping students understand how accounting, auditing, tax, and financial reporting are shaped through oversight, enforcement, and standard-setting. The course centers on guided visits and discussions with professionals at key institutions in D.C. that influence the accounting profession. By connecting these experiences to course concepts, students develop professional judgment, strengthen communication skills, and expand their awareness of the large variety of career paths available in the accounting industry. Prerequisite: ACC 4313 with a grade of "C" or better.

ACC 5361. Accounting Analysis for Managerial Decision Making.

This course introduces the principles and techniques of managerial accounting used to support planning, control, and decision-making in organizations. Students perform different cost accumulation and cost assignment methods, including job, process, and standard costing. They learn to distinguish direct and indirect costs. They perform cost-volume-profit analysis, budgeting, and performance measurement through tools such as the balanced scorecard. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, ethical considerations, and the clear communication of accounting information for effective managerial decision-making in a business environment.

ACC 5362. Cost and Managerial Accounting Theory.

This course examines advanced managerial accounting concepts used to generate, analyze, and interpret information for internal decision-making. The course emphasizes cost behavior, cost system design, performance measurement, and the strategic use of accounting information in planning and control. It also incorporates behavioral aspects associated with management control systems. Students evaluate how managerial accounting supports operational, tactical, and strategic decisions across organizations and functional areas. Emphasis is placed on analyzing business cases and using strategic cost management concepts to develop actionable recommendations. Prerequisite: ACC 3365 or ACC 5361 either with a grade of “B” or better.

ACC 5366. Business Entity Taxation.

This course provides an advanced study of federal income taxation for business entities, with emphasis on C corporations, partnerships, and S corporations. Students analyze the tax consequences of entity formation, operations, restructuring, and liquidation through application of the Internal Revenue Code, Treasury Regulations, judicial decisions, and IRS administrative guidance. The course develops advanced tax research skills, professional written communication, and the ability to integrate tax authority, policy considerations, and ethical judgment in resolving complex business entity tax issues and advising clients. Prerequisite: ACC 3313 and [ACC 4328 or ACC 3308] both with grades of "B" or better.

ACC 5369. Special Studies in Accounting.

This course provides an independent study focused on directed research in selected accounting topics. It examines the development of accounting thought and its application to advanced tax issues, international accounting standards, professional ethics, and key concepts in managerial and financial accounting. The course deepens students’ understanding of how theoretical perspectives and specialized research strengthen analytical reasoning, support sound professional judgment, and enhance the ability to address complex accounting issues in organizational contexts. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

ACC 5370. Internship in Accounting.

This course provides an immersive introduction to professional accounting practice by engaging students in real‑world work environments across public, industry, or governmental settings. Students explore the application of accounting principles, reporting standards, and ethical frameworks central to the profession, gaining insight into the competencies expected of Certified Public Accountants (CPAs). The experience highlights the relevance of regulations and professional expectations set by the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy (TSBPA), strengthening students’ understanding of how technical knowledge, professional judgment, and regulatory compliance shape high‑quality accounting practice. Students taking ACC 5370 for credit may not take ACC 5680 for credit. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

ACC 5372. Tax Research.

This course provides an examination of the sources of tax authority, which include its primary sources (legislative, judicial, and administrative), as well as secondary sources. This course develops advanced skills in federal tax research, analysis, and professional communication. Students learn to identify relevant facts and issues, locate and interpret authoritative tax law sources, and evaluate the authority and relevance of statutes, legislative history, administrative guidance, judicial decisions, and secondary materials. Emphasis is placed on the effective use of electronic tax research tools, synthesis of academic and professional literature, preparation of persuasive written tax memoranda and professional communications, and ethical judgment in tax practice. Prerequisite: ACC 4328 or ACC 3308 with a grade of "B" or better. Corequisite: ACC 3314 with a grade of "B" or better.

ACC 5373. Fraud Examination.

This course provides a graduate-level introduction to fraud examination with emphasis on occupational fraud, fraud prevention, fraud detection, and fraud investigation. Students study why perpetrators commit fraud, the characteristics of common fraud and corruption schemes, and the internal controls used to deter misconduct. The course also addresses methods for detecting fraud, including selected cyber-security issues, as well as interviewing techniques, evidentiary considerations, and documentary requirements. Students develop skills in preparing professional reports for fraud examination and litigation support contexts. Prerequisite: ACC 3305 or ACC 3313 with a grade of "B" or better.

ACC 5375. Business Information Consulting.

This course examines principles and concepts of accounting consulting through the analysis and presentation of case studies addressing current issues and emerging trends in accounting and information technology. Students gain real-world experience with client‑focused case work that requires the development of professional deliverables. Students evaluate complex organizational challenges, develop data‑driven recommendations, and refine professional judgment aligned with the consulting practices of accounting firms. Emphasis is placed on integrating technical expertise, critical thinking, and strategic communication to prepare students for advisory roles supporting clients in dynamic business environments. Prerequisite: ACC 3305 with a "B" or better.

ACC 5377. Partnership Taxation.

This course provides an advanced study of partnership taxation under Subchapter K of the Internal Revenue Code. Students analyze complex issues involving partnership formation, allocations, distributions, basis adjustments, and transactions between partners and partnerships. Emphasis is placed on interpreting and applying primary and secondary tax authorities, conducting graduate-level tax research, and evaluating tax planning strategies in light of policy, compliance, and professional standards. The course also develops students’ ability to communicate well-reasoned analyses and exercise ethical professional judgment in advising clients. Life-cycle analysis and tax planning considerations are emphasized. Prerequisite: ACC 4328 or ACC 3308 or ACC 5366 with a grade of "B" or better.

ACC 5378. Tax Practice, Procedures, Audits and Controversy.

This course provides an advanced study of tax practice and procedure in the federal income tax system. Students examine return filing requirements, audits, appeals, collections, and litigation, with emphasis on the tax professional’s advisory and advocacy roles. The course considers voluntary compliance, taxpayer and practitioner rights and responsibilities, penalties, and procedural rules governing interactions with taxing authorities. Students develop the ability to analyze authoritative guidance and tax literature, formulate defensible procedural strategies, and communicate ethical, professional recommendations in written and oral form. Prerequisites: ACC 3314 and [ACC 4328 or ACC 3308] both with a grade of "B" or better.

ACC 5389. Corporate Governance and Ethics.

This course examines ethics and corporate governance with emphasis on issues affecting professional accountants and the profession’s core values of integrity, objectivity, and independence. Focus is placed on analysis of public interest considerations, professional skepticism, and the role of governance in maintaining accountability and trust. The course also provides an in-depth study of ethics rules issued by professional and regulatory bodies. Students apply ethical analysis to case studies in accounting and business to identify feasible courses of action, determine stakeholder impacts, and develop oral and written reports. This course was approved by the Texas State Board of Public Accountants as a requirement for licensure as Certified Public Accountants. Prerequisite: ACC 3313 with a grade of "B" or better. Corequisite: ACC 4313 with a grade of "C" or better.

ACC 5390L. Exploring Accounting Oversight in Washington, D.C..

This course offers an immersive learning experience in Washington, D.C. The course bridges classroom theory with real-world practice, providing a holistic understanding of the regulatory landscape through exploration of the key institutions shaping the accounting profession. The core of the course consists of guided visits to these institutions. Prerequisite: ACC 4313 with a grade of "C" or better.

ACC 5680. Internship in Accounting.

This course provides an immersive introduction to professional accounting practice by engaging students in real‑world work environments across public, industry, or governmental settings. Students explore the application of accounting principles, reporting standards, and ethical frameworks central to the profession, gaining insight into the competencies expected of Certified Public Accountants (CPAs). The experience highlights the relevance of regulations and professional expectations set by the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy (TSBPA), strengthening students’ understanding of how technical knowledge, professional judgment, and regulatory compliance shape high‑quality accounting practice. Students taking ACC 5370 for credit may not take ACC 5680 for credit. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.