Frequently Asked Questions

What undergraduate majors are eligible for the MAcc program?

The Rice MAcc is open to all undergraduate majors. The Rice MAcc trains future leaders in the accounting profession in critical and analytical thinking, objectivity, a global perspective, an ethical mindset, exemplary oral and written communication skills and computing skills. We embrace students who are from varied academic backgrounds and who possess the ability to synthesize ideas across disparate disciplinary areas.

Note that the Rice MAcc does have some accounting and business prerequisite course requirements. See the questions "Are there accounting courses that I have to complete before starting the MAcc program?” and "Are there non-accounting courses that I have to complete before beginning the program?” or view our program prerequisites page to learn more.

Learn about our application requirements here.

Do I need to have already earned my bachelor's degree to apply to the Rice MAcc?
No. You are invited to apply before your bachelor's degree is completed, but you cannot begin the MAcc until you have completed your bachelor's degree. Current undergraduates typically are eligible to apply as early as the middle of the spring semester of their junior year.

Before I apply to the Rice MAcc, do I need to have completed any specific class?
Yes, before applying to the MAcc program, you must have completed the direct equivalent of Rice’s introductory financial accounting undergraduate course, BUSI 305: Financial Accounting.

Students should email the syllabus of their prospective equivalent of BUSI 305 to RiceMAcc@rice.edu for evaluation of direct equivalency to BUSI 305 prior to submitting their application.

Are there accounting courses that I have to complete before starting the MAcc program?

Yes, in addition to BUSI 305: Financial Accounting, there are two other accounting prerequisites:

• BUSI 405: Issues in Financial Reporting I (Intermediate Financial Accounting I)
• BUSI 440: Auditing

Some students may be unable to complete these courses prior to completing their bachelor's degree. You have two other options to fulfill them. 

We offer a focused, 3-week pre-term equivalent of these courses on campus during Rice's Summer Session I, which runs mid-May to early June. Note that additional tuition will be charged for the preterm courses. Alternatively, you may take the direct equivalent of these courses through another institution, subject to the MAcc Admission Committee's approval. Email the syllabi of your prospective direct equivalents of BUSI 405 and BUSI 440 to RiceMAcc@rice.edu for an evaluation of direct equivalency.

Learn more about the program prerequisites here.

Are there non-accounting courses that I have to complete before beginning the MAcc program?

Yes. If you are planning to seek CPA licensure through the state of Texas, The Texas State Board of Public Accountancy (TSBPA) requires CPA candidates to have completed 24 credits of related business subjects. Nine of these 24 credits will be taught through the MAcc program, leaving 15 credits that you need to have completed before beginning the MAcc.

Please refer to the TSBPA’s website to determine whether you have fulfilled the “related business” coursework requirement. You may contact Professor Ben Lansford, MAcc Program Director, with questions regarding your progress toward meeting the “related business” requirement.

Download a PDF version of the related business coursework requirements.

Is the GMAT or GRE required to apply to the Rice MAcc?

Yes, either a GMAT or GRE score is required for consideration for admission. Official score reports must be sent directly from the reporting agency. This means you will need to arrange to have GMAC or ETS send your scores electronically to Rice. 

Applicants with strong academic performance may be considered for a standardized test score waiver. If you would like to be considered, you will need to fill out our GMAT/GRE waiver form.

Is there a work experience requirement for admission?
Full-time work experience is not necessary. Many students enter the MAcc program directly after completing their bachelor’s degree.

How long is the MAcc program?
The Rice MAcc is a 10-month program. Coursework begins in August and students graduate in May of the following year.

How many credit hours does the MAcc program entail?
The program consists of 36 credit hours. There are four half-semester academic terms (Fall I, Fall II, Spring I and Spring II). Students also take Intensive Learning Unit (ILU) courses, which are held between terms and are designed for content that is better delivered in a concentrated seminar format.

Does the Rice MAcc have concentrations?

No, our MAcc does not have concentrations or electives. Each academic year, the cohort of MAcc students takes the same classes.

The Rice MAcc coursework positions students to pass the CPA exam and enables graduates to pursue careers in audit, tax, advisory, consulting and finance.

When do students begin the program?
All students begin the program in the fall semester. It is not possible to begin the program in the spring semester.

Can I complete the program on a part-time basis? Is distance learning, evening coursework or an online format available?
No. We offer the Rice MAcc program in a full-time, traditional classroom format.

Can I work while I attend the MAcc program?
No. Classes are held during the day, and the rigorous nature of the program does not make it feasible to work simultaneously.

Is the MAcc program STEM certified?
Yes. Rice has obtained STEM designation for all our master degrees. The STEM designation is a direct response to the data-driven business environment, employer needs and student interest.

What is the importance of the STEM designation for MAcc?
This designation not only recognizes the quantitative orientation of our programs, but also provides F-1 visa students the opportunity to apply for the STEM OPT extension. The extension allows international graduates, who may now hold U.S. jobs for only 12 months after graduation, to remain in the U.S. for an additional 24 months and receive training through work experience. All current and incoming Rice Business international students who are now on an F-1 visa will be eligible to apply for the extension under this new designation.

What is the tuition for the Rice MAcc?
You can view tuition and financial aid information here. The Rice MAcc is a degree that will pay dividends throughout your career. Our financial aid options help make your goals attainable and ensure a strong return on your investment.

What is the class profile for the Rice MAcc?
You can view information about our current class of Rice MAcc students here.

How can I learn more about the Rice MAcc?
To learn more about our Master of Accounting program, please schedule a meeting with Chase Crook, the assistant director of specialty programs at Rice Business.

Where do Rice MAcc graduates work?

We’re proud of our strong relationships with companies that consistently recruit Rice MAcc students, including the Big Four accounting firms. 98% of our students secure jobs before graduation. As a Rice MAcc graduate, your experience makes you versatile and in-demand across industries and sectors, and your opportunities continue to grow throughout your career. Our graduates become managing directors, heads of strategy and planning, executive vice presidents, CFOs and CEOs.

Where do I apply for the MAcc program?
If you would like to apply to the Rice Business Master of Accounting program, please complete our online application.

How much is the MAcc application fee?
The application fee is $75.

Are there scholarships available for the MAcc program?
Yes, scholarships are based on merit and awarded on a competitive basis. Applicants who wish to be considered for a scholarship will submit an additional essay that describes the unique background, talents, experiences, or skills that set them apart from other applicants. Note that requesting consideration for a scholarship award will not affect the Admission Committee’s evaluation of your application for admission to the program.

What materials will I need to submit to apply to the MAcc program?
All non-Rice undergraduate applicants are required to submit:

1. Your statement of purpose
2. Your professional résumé
3. Your official academic transcripts, submitted directly to us
4. Your official GMAT or GRE test score submitted directly to us
5. Two confidential evaluations submitted directly to us

Learn more about our application requirements here.

Which of the MAcc admissions criteria are most important?
We consider applications in their entirety. We seek students who possess strong academic and analytical aptitude, leadership potential and a variety of extracurricular involvement.

How many essays are required within the MAcc application? And what are the topics?

One statement of purpose essay is required. (Maximum 750 words)

Your statement of purpose should include your short-term and long-term career goals, and how the MAcc degree from Rice University will help you achieve those goals. 

Learn more about our application requirements here.

How do I submit my resumé for the Rice MAcc application?
You will have the opportunity to upload your résumé as you complete the online application. Your uploaded resumé should be one page in length and in PDF format. The resumé should highlight your academic, extracurricular and professional achievements.

What transcripts, diplomas and/or degree certificates do I submit with the Rice MAcc application?
You must submit transcripts from your degree-granting institutions and from those institutions whose grades were transferred to your degree-granting institution, unless those grades appear on your final transcript. It is not necessary to submit transcripts from summer coursework or study abroad if those classes were not required for your degree, they total fewer than nine credit hours, and completion of those courses is already reflected on your main transcript.

Have your official transcripts sent electronically to RiceMAcc@rice.edu. This is the quickest and preferred method. You can also have them mailed to:

MAcc Program Admissions
6100 Main St., MS-531
Houston, TX 77005

What are the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) and the Graduate Records Examination (GRE)?
The GMAT is a standardized test that measures an individual’s verbal, mathematical, and analytical writing skills. These are predictors of an applicant's ability to be successful in a rigorous academic environment. The Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) administers the GMAT.

The GRE is an examination used by a wide variety of graduate school programs to assess an individual’s academic potential. The Educational Testing Services (ETS) organization administers the GRE.

Visit www.mba.com for the GMAT and www.ets.org/gre for the GRE to learn more and apply to take either exam.

I need to have my official GMAT or GRE score report sent to Rice. What is your school code?
The GMAT code is 3WS-WD-35.
The GRE code is 7502.

Are there circumstances in which the GMAT/GRE requirement can be waived for the Rice MAcc?
A GMAT or GRE score is required for applicants who are not current Rice undergraduate students or Rice graduates. However, applicants who have a strong academic background may be considered for a standardized test score waiver. If you would like to be considered, you will need to fill out our GMAT/GRE waiver form.

If I take the GMAT/GRE more than once, which score will you consider?
We will consider your highest score.

Who should I select to provide my confidential evaluations for the MAcc application?
Select two people who, based on their relationship with you, can evaluate your potential to succeed in a rigorous Master of Accounting program and in your subsequent professional business career. We prefer that at least one of your evaluators be a professor who taught a class you completed. Use your best judgment in selecting evaluators; if you feel it is necessary, you may also include a note in your application explaining your choice. Recommendations should be current and should address your potential as a MAcc candidate. Recommendations from personal friends, relatives, academic advisers or family acquaintances are not appropriate.

How will my references submit their confidential evaluations of me for the MAcc application?
All evaluations will be submitted electronically via the online application. You will be asked to provide the email addresses for your referees during the application process. Let your reference writer know that they will be contacted via email to submit their evaluation of you. Please verify that the email addresses you provide are valid and correct. Emails to referees are not sent by the application system until you have submitted your application. Please do not mail or email copies of your evaluations.

May I submit more than two evaluations for the MAcc application?
Yes, you may opt to submit a third evaluation, if you choose.

Is an evaluation interview part of the MAcc application process?
Once an application is completed, the admissions committee may request an evaluative interview. Interviews are by invitation only after all materials have been received and initially reviewed. Candidates from outside of Houston can arrange to conduct their interviews via Skype. However, visiting the campus for a face-to-face interview will allow for class visits and a tour of facilities.

When is the MAcc application deadline?
Admissions decisions are performed in three rounds. View our application deadlines here.

Will you inform me when you receive my MAcc application?
Yes, an automated email will be sent to you upon your submission of the application.

How will I know when my MAcc application is complete?
Once you submit your application, the online application system will be updated automatically to show which materials we have received. Please check the application website periodically to see if your application is complete.

When and how will I be notified of the MAcc admissions committee's decision?
The admissions committee will review your application after it is complete. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Once a decision has been made, the online application will be updated with your admission status. Please log in to your application periodically to check your status.

Can I request feedback on my MAcc application if I am not offered admission?
Due to the volume of applications we receive each year, the admissions committee does not offer feedback on individual applications.

I am an international student. Am I eligible?
The Rice MAcc will admit highly qualified international students who demonstrate superior communication and writing skills. The strongest international applicants typically have an undergraduate degree from an English-speaking institution or have worked in an English-speaking country.

How is the Rice MAcc application process different for international students?

International students follow most of the same application procedures as domestic students, with some exceptions.

International applicants who did not earn a bachelor’s degree from an English-speaking institution are required to submit an English proficiency exam test score.

We require all non-U.S. transcripts to be evaluated (on a course-by-course basis) and submitted directly to us through one of the three following companies:

• Educational Credential Evaluators
• SpanTran: The Evaluation Company
• World Education Services

You should request that the evaluator send the evaluation directly to Rice at:

MAcc Program Admissions
6100 Main St., MS-531
Houston, TX 77005

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident to apply to the Rice MAcc?
No. However, we cannot assure that graduates who are non-U.S. citizens and F-1 or other temporary visa holders will be eligible to work in the U.S. after graduation.

Do you require an English proficiency exam?
International applicants who did not earn a bachelor’s degree from an institution where the primary language of instruction was English must submit a valid score report from one of the following:

1. Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) (use Rice University Jones School of Business code 7320)
2. International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
3. Duolingo (select Rice Business - Jones Graduate School)

All test scores are valid for two years. Please allow at least four weeks for your test results to reach us.

Applicants should score at least 90 on the iBT (internet-based) TOEFL or at least 600 on the paper-based TOEFL. For students who choose to take the IELTS in lieu of TOEFL, the minimum score is 7.

Do I need to have a specific undergraduate major to be eligible for the MAcc?

No, the program is designed for non-accounting majors and all Rice undergraduate majors are eligible. The Rice MAcc trains future leaders in the accounting profession in critical and analytical thinking, objectivity, a global perspective, an ethical mindset, exemplary oral and written communication skills and computing skills. We embrace students who are from varied academic backgrounds and who possess the ability to synthesize ideas across disparate disciplinary areas.

Note that the Rice MAcc does have some accounting and business prerequisite course requirements. See the questions "Are there accounting courses that I have to complete before starting the MAcc program?” and "Are there non-accounting courses that I have to complete before beginning the program?” or view our program prerequisites page to learn more.

Learn about our application requirements here.

Do I need to have already finished my bachelor's degree to apply?
No, current Rice undergraduates are welcome to apply as early as junior year.

Before I apply to the Rice MAcc, do I need to have completed any specific class?
Yes, before applying to the MAcc program, you must have completed Rice’s BUSI 305: Financial Accounting.

Are there accounting courses that I have to complete before starting the MAcc program?
Yes, in addition to BUSI 305: Financial Accounting, there are two other accounting prerequisites:

• BUSI 405: Issues in Financial Reporting I
• BUSI 440: Auditing

BUSI 405 is offered in spring semesters and BUSI 440 is offered in fall semesters. You must complete BUSI 305 before taking BUSI 405 or BUSI 440. Note that you do not have to have completed BUSI 405 and BUSI 440 to apply to the MAcc.

Some students may be unable to complete one or both of these courses prior to completing their bachelor's degree. When this is the case, you can be conditionally accepted to the program, but you must agree to satisfy the accounting prerequisites by taking a focused, 3-week equivalent to the course(s) on campus during the Summer Session I that precedes the fall start of the MAcc program.

Learn more about the program prerequisites here.

Are there non-accounting courses that I have to complete before beginning the program?

Yes. The Texas State Board of Public Accountancy (TSBPA) requires CPA candidates to have completed 24 credits of related business subjects. Nine of these 24 credits will be taught through the MAcc program, leaving 15 credits that you need to have completed before beginning the MAcc.

Note that Rice’s business minor curriculum satisfies the needed 15 credits of “related business.” Therefore, pursuing the business minor is a good idea for many MAcc-bound students.

Rice students who are not majoring or minoring in business should use our interactive tool to determine their progress toward meeting the 15 credit related-business requirement. Contact Professor Ben Lansford, MAcc Program Director, with any questions regarding the “related-business” requirement.

Is the GMAT or GRE required?
No, we waive the standardize test requirement for Rice undergraduates and alumni.

Is there a work experience requirement for admission?
No, full-time work experience is not necessary. Many students will enter the MAcc program directly after completing their bachelor’s degree.

How long is the MAcc program?
The Rice MAcc is a 10-month program. Coursework begins in August and students graduate in May of the following year.

How many credit hours does the program entail?
The program is comprised of 36 credit hours. There are four half-semester academic terms (Fall I, Fall II, Spring I and Spring II). Students also take four Intensive Learning Unit (ILU) courses, each of which is delivered in a dedicated, five-day period.

Does the Rice MAcc have concentrations?
No, our MAcc does not have concentrations or electives. Each academic year, the cohort of MAcc students take the same classes.

The Rice MAcc coursework positions students to pass the CPA exam and enables graduates to pursue careers in audit, tax, advisory, consulting and finance

When do students begin the program?
All students begin the program in the fall semester. It is not possible to begin the program in the spring semester.

Can I complete the program on a part-time basis? Is distance learning, evening coursework or an online format available?
No. We offer the Rice MAcc program in a full-time, traditional classroom format.

Can I work while I attend the MAcc program?
No. Classes are held during the day, and the rigorous nature of the program does not make it feasible to work simultaneously.

Is the MAcc program STEM certified?
Yes. Rice has obtained STEM designation for all our master degrees. The STEM designation is a direct response to the data-driven business environment, employer needs and student interest.

What is the importance of the STEM designation for MAcc?
This designation not only recognizes the quantitative orientation of our programs, but also provides F-1 visa students the opportunity to apply for the STEM OPT extension. The extension allows international graduates, who may now hold U.S. jobs for only 12 months after graduation, to remain in the U.S. for an additional 24 months and receive training through work experience. All current and incoming Rice Business international students who are now on an F-1 visa will be eligible to apply for the extension under this new designation.

What is the tuition for the Rice MAcc?
You can view tuition and financial aid information here. The Rice MAcc is a degree that will pay dividends throughout your career. Our financial aid options help make your goals attainable and ensure a strong return on your investment.

What is the class profile for the Rice MAcc?
You can view information about our current class of Rice MAcc students here.

How can I learn more about the Rice MAcc?
To learn more about our Master of Accounting program, please schedule a meeting with Chase Crook, the assistant director of specialty programs at Rice Business.

Where do Rice MAcc graduates work?
We’re proud of our strong relationships with companies that consistently recruit Rice MAcc students, including the Big Four accounting firms. 98% of our students secure jobs before graduation. As a Rice MAcc graduate, your experience makes you versatile and in-demand across industries and sectors, and your opportunities continue to grow throughout your career. Our graduates have become managing directors, heads of strategy and planning, executive vice presidents, CFOs and CEOs.

When should I apply to the Rice MAcc program?
We invite current Rice undergraduates who have completed the course BUSI 305-Financial Accounting to apply. Rice juniors and seniors interested in the MAcc are encouraged to apply immediately to receive a prompt conditional admittance decision.

Knowing whether you have been conditionally admitted will greatly assist you in choosing courses for the rest of your undergraduate studies. Conditional admits will be given a list of courses to complete as part of their undergraduate studies. If you are currently a Rice student who is potentially interested in the program, you are encouraged to contact Professor Ben Lansford, MAcc Program Director. Professor Lansford will discuss the program with you prior to applying and assist you in mapping out the coursework for your remaining semesters.

Where do I apply for the MAcc program?
If you would like to apply to the Rice Business Master of Accounting program, please complete our online application. You will find the online application website at https://apply.business.rice.edu/apply/.

How much is the MAcc application fee?
The $75 application fee is waived for Rice undergraduates and alumni.

Are there scholarships available for the MAcc program?
Yes, scholarships are based on merit and awarded on a competitive basis. Applicants who wish to be considered for a scholarship will submit an additional essay that describes the unique background, talents, experiences, or skills that set them apart from other applicants. Note that requesting consideration for a scholarship award will not affect the Admission Committee’s evaluation of your application for admission to the program.

How many essays are required, and what are the topics?
One statement of purpose essay is required. (Maximum 750 words)

The essay asks you to describe your short-term and long-term career goals, and how the MAcc degree will help you achieve those goals

How do I submit my resumé for the MAcc program?
You will have the opportunity to upload your résumé as you complete the online application. Your uploaded résumé should be one page in length and in PDF format. The résumé should highlight your academic, extracurricular and professional achievements. Rice’s Center for Career Development can assist you in developing and polishing your resume.

Who should I select to provide my confidential evaluation?
Select one person who, based on their relationship with you, can evaluate your potential to succeed in a rigorous graduate accounting program and in your subsequent professional business career. Rice students often select their BUSI 305 professor. If you feel it is necessary, you may submit a second recommendation. Note that recommendations from personal friends, relatives, academic advisers, or family acquaintances are not appropriate.

How will my references submit their confidential evaluations of me?
All evaluations will be submitted electronically via the application system. You will be asked to provide the email address for your referee during the application process. Let your reference writer know that they will be contacted via email to submit their evaluation of you. Please verify that the email addresses you provide are valid and correct. Emails to referees are not sent by the application system until you have submitted your application. Please do not mail or email copies of your evaluations.

When is the MAcc application deadline?
As a Rice student, you are eligible to apply to the program for a prompt conditional admission once you have completed BUSI 305 and your sophomore year.

Admissions decisions are performed in three rounds. We encourage you to apply as early as possible. View our application deadlines here.

Will you inform me when you receive my application?
Yes, an automated email will be sent to you upon your submission of the application.

How will I know when my application is complete?
Once you submit your application, the online application system will be updated automatically to show which materials we have received. Please check your application periodically to see if your application is complete.

When and how will I be notified of the committee's decision?
The Admissions Committee will review your application after it is complete. Applications are reviewed in rounds. Once a decision has been made, the online application will be updated with your admission status. Please log in to the application website periodically to check your status.