The Top Forensic Accounting MBA Online Programs

Forensic accountants use accounting principles to investigate allegations of financial abuse and criminal activity within companies and organizations. Sharp public scrutiny of high-profile corporations that used questionable record-keeping practices has led both businesses and nonprofit entities to reevaluate their accounting techniques. Consequently, managers with specialized skills in auditing and financial evaluation are in demand. An online Master of Business Administration in Forensic Accounting from one of the top accredited online MBA programs is among the best ways to enter this growing profession.

The best forensic accounting MBA schools online that are ranked highly in the online forensic accounting MBA rankings provide students with in-depth knowledge in forensic investigations, fraud detection approaches and information and communications security. Students learn how to appropriately document and report accounting activity, as well as how to establish preventative measures to encourage ethical behavior within corporations and other companies. MBA forensic accounting online programs also introduce students to current theory and practice in economic crime investigation, legal concepts of criminal fraud and corporate liability.

How can I tell if an online MBA forensic accounting degree is right for me?

An online Master of Business Administration in Forensic Accounting is a good option for students interested in learning about cost estimation, financial controls and audit methodology.

Other common characteristics amongst many online MBA forensic accounting students include:

• A proclivity for analyzing data or information
• A propensity for getting information
• A proclivity for updating and using relevant knowledge
• A knack for establishing and maintaining interpersonal relationships
• A proclivity for identifying objects, actions, and events

How long does it take to earn an MBA online forensic accounting degree?

The time it takes to earn a forensic accounting MBA degree online is comparable to the time it takes to earn other MBAs online. This degree on average takes two years of full-time study to complete. But, students are able to complete the degree at their own pace at some schools that have part-time or accelerated programs.

What are the prerequisites and admission requirements for MBA forensic accounting schools online?

An undergraduate degree is required before students can gain admission to online MBA forensic accounting programs. While having a bachelor’s degree in subjects such as finance, international business, CPA, and business administration may be ideal for those wanting to enroll in a good MBA forensic accounting online program, it is generally not required.

The following criteria are also used by many online MBA in forensic accounting programs in making admissions decisions including:

• Work experience
• Personal interviews
• References or Letters of Recommendation
• Academic transcripts

What courses will I take in forensic accounting MBA programs online?

Students in their first year of an accredited forensic accounting MBA online typically take core courses that are designed to introduce the essential business knowledge required for the remainder of the program. The core courses in online MBA forensic accounting programs often include business law and ethics, organizational management, economics, leadership and marketing strategies.

The second year curriculum of a forensic accounting MBA online degree program is made up of concentration courses that focus exclusively on forensic accounting, auditing, financial reporting in capital markets, fraud examination, financial management and computer forensics for accountants.  These courses are designed to teach students how to evaluate different approaches to fraud detection and deterrence, how to apply concepts of audit risk and evidence to selected audit processes and business systems and how to understand the legal issues and industry standards that impact forensic accounting.

Many students enrolled in online forensic accounting MBA programs complete an internship during the course of their education. Such an internship can be useful in that it not only gives students an opportunity to practically apply the business and forensic accounting skills they are learning in an actual business setting, but it can also serve as an introduction into a particular business or company.

What are the best online MBA in forensic accounting books I should consider reading?

Some books students wanting to pursue forensic accounting MBA careers may find on point are:

1. Accounting and Auditing Research & Databases: Practitioner’s Desk Reference (Thomas Weirich) – This book presents a step-by-step guide to professional accounting and auditing research resources, making it a great reference book for forensic accounting students.

2. Financial Shenanigans: How to Detect Accounting Gimmicks & Fraud in Financial Reports (Howard Schilit, Jeremy Perler) – Schilit and Perler share the knowledge and tools needed to learn how to spot even the most subtle signs of accounting fraud, making this book another essential resource for MBA online forensic accounting students.

3. Managerial Accounting:  A Focus on Ethical Decision Making (Steve Jackson, Roby Sawyers, Greg Jenkins) – This step-by-step guide offers readers a decision-making framework that includes defining the problem, identifying objectives, analyzing available options and selecting the best solution.

4. Painting with Numbers: Presenting Financials and Other Numbers So People Will Understand You (Randall Bolten) – This book gives financial and accounting professionals tools and tips for presenting numerical information effectively in a clear, comprehensible and concise manner.

5. The Financial Numbers Game: Detecting Creative Accounting Practices (Charles W. Mulford, Eugene E. Comiskey)  The authors of this book offer a guide to understanding, detecting and avoiding an assortment of creative accounting tactics used in financial statements today.

What are my future job prospects if I pursue forensic accounting MBA jobs?

As of 2010, there were over 1.2 million jobs in the fields of accounting and auditing, many of which are suitable for online MBA in forensic accounting graduates.  Forensic accounting MBA salary averages vary, but graduates of the top online forensic accounting MBA schools may find salaries similar to the following:

• Forensic Accountant – $112,649
• Auditing Manager – $111,636
• Certified Public Accountant – $99,715
• Financial Controller – $122,397

The pool of accountant and auditor positions in the United States is expected to grow 16% over the next 10 years according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This anticipated growth is directly related to the increased demand for accounting services as organizations seek to comply with the stricter laws and regulations resulting from recent financial crises and corporate scandals.

Many employers favor graduates who have studied from a program that has been accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. AACSB accredited forensic accounting MBA programs are believed to provide students with a quality education.