Bentley University Launches Master of Science in Audit Analytics Program

Bentley University, a private university in Waltham, Massachusetts, is launching a brand-new Master of Science in Audit Analytics Program.

The university website says students will develop a distinctive skill set and learn to translate data by combining analytics and business acumen.

Applications are open from September 1 the year before. The deadlines for fall (full-time and part-time) are: November 1 – early action; December 1 – round 1; January 20 – round 2; March 15 – round 3; May to August – rolling admission*.

The deadline for spring (part-time only) is October 1 – early action; October to December – rolling Admission*. *Students seeking visas for fall should apply by July 1; Students seeking visas for spring should apply by November 1.

Bentley University spoke with TopMBA.com about the upcoming program launch.

What factors led to the development of this program?

We created the Master of Science in Audit Analytics program when we saw an increasing marketplace demand for analytics experts in Public Accounting firms and large commercial organizations with Internal Audit Departments. Both internal and external auditors need to be armed with technology and analytical skills that will match their clients and constituents needs. Graduates of this program have both the functional and analytical skills to hit the ground running in this emerging, high-demand field.

What type of students do you hope to see apply in the first year?

The STEM-designated MSAA program experienced a soft launch this year, opening enrolment to Bentley accountancy undergraduates seeking a graduate degree. The student response for applications was strong, so we expect our intake will grow as the program is marketed externally for the first time this year.

It’s likely that many applicants will come right from their undergraduate studies, seeking an advanced degree to set them apart when entering the workforce. Other applicants will be looking to gain advanced analytics skills that the market demands. We expect applicants to have a core course experience of statistics and information systems and a base knowledge from some required courses in accountancy.

What are some extra-curricular opportunities available to students on this program?

Bentley students have many extracurricular opportunities on campus, from professional organizations and events to student-led activities. Students can apply to become members of the accounting-related honor society, Beta Alpha Psi, which hosts many events for members. The Graduate Student Association hosts professional and social events and trips – with the city of Boston just minutes away. Our Career Services Office is unmatched in assisting students with internships and job placement. All Bentley graduates receive lifetime career support, including internship application assistance during and after graduation.

What can students expect from the program on a day-to-day basis?

The MSAA shares three analytics courses with other analytics graduate degree programs offered at Bentley. Students take five additional required courses in the program and can choose two electives from a list of 10 wide-ranging options. Some classes are offered in a hybrid, live-stream format where students can join in-person or online at a designated time. We do recommend in-person attendance so students gain the most benefit from interacting with the instructor and classmates, but the format option creates flexibility for students. The workload is directly applicable to requirements of the market.

How can students take advantage of wider opportunities within the school and institution?

All graduate students at Bentley have full access to our top-ranked Career Services Office, graduate advising office, library, research materials, industry tools and our seven high-tech innovation centers.

What most excites you about this program launch?

Bentley University is the first university in New England to offer a graduate degree in Audit Analytics. We take our role of preparing the next generation of auditors seriously and are proud of this quick response to the needs of the marketplace. The program is cutting-edge, technology-based and market-driven, and will serve students well. Knowing all this really excites us.

What are the career opportunities for graduates of the program?

We’re finding that the career opportunities in this field are endless because analytics skills are transferrable to all forms of financial services in many companies. Some career opportunities include internal auditing, external auditing, risk assessment, financial data analyst, financial reporting, commercial banking, investment banking, private equity and venture capital.

Is there any additional information you'd like prospective students to know?

We would be happy to speak with a prospective student who would like to learn more about Bentley University and our MSAA program. Bentley’s cutting-edge programs provide the world’s top leaders and innovators with the skills and experience they need to take on the changing and challenging business environment we see on the horizon. Visit Bentley’s site for more information.