Curriculum & Schedule

The MFA is a module-based program, comprised of five 12-week modules (equivalent to 8 semester hours each) over a period of fourteen months. Each successive module builds upon the previous modules to create a unified learning experience. Students meet on campus for a total of seven two-day class sessions, held on Fridays from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Meals, including dinner on Friday evening and breakfast and lunch on Saturday, are provided.

Between these on-campus sessions, course assignments and activities are facilitated through UC’s online learning portal. This includes online virtual classes, which are held every other week. Virtual classes are scheduled outside normal working hours, usually a weekday evening from 6:30 to 8:30 pm.

Between class sessions, students complete both individual and group assignments and participate in a variety of interactive online learning experiences (e.g., discussion forums, live chats, videos).  All examinations and presentations, as well as the capstone experience, will be conducted during the on-campus sessions.

Module One – Foundational Concepts & Introduction to Forensic Accounting

The first module introduces students to the world of forensic accounting and reviews foundational investigative and research concepts. Topics include fraud theory, criminal psychology, social research methodologies, the nature of forensic accounting assignments, and ethical considerations. In this module, students will learn to look “beyond the numbers,” integrating and applying their knowledge of the various functional disciplines.  Moreover, students will learn to think like investigators and appreciate the value and limitations of research.  Finally, students will gain experience in presenting investigative/research results in a clear, concise, and professional manner.

Module Two – Criminology & Legal Framework

The second module familiarizes students with the legal framework of forensic accounting. Specific legal concepts include:

• The elements of a lawsuit
• The discovery process 
• The anatomy of civil and criminal trials
• The rules of evidence
• Qualifications for admission
• The attorney/client privilege
• Deposition and trial testimony

Module Three – Gathering and Analyzing Evidence

The third module introduces various approaches and methods forensic accountants use to gather and analyze quantitative and qualitative evidence. In this module, students learn to understand and appreciate the adversarial nature of financial reporting, as well as the interrelatedness of financial statements. Building upon this foundation, students practice the application of various tools of financial statements analysis. Basic statistical concepts are reviewed, along with the economic and financial concepts underlying valuation theory. Finally, specialized tools, including forensic interviewing techniques and digital forensic analysis, are introduced.

Module Four – Forensic Accounting Engagements

The fourth module presents the methods and processes of the most common forensic accounting engagements, including business valuations, economic damage calculations, fraud investigations, and internal control evaluations. Students have the opportunity to practice analysis and report writing for each type of engagement, as preparation for the capstone project.

Module Five – Litigation Services & Capstone Project

The fifth module is the culmination of the program, requiring integration and application of the concepts learned in all previous modules. Students are challenged to develop a case through each stage of the litigation process:  establishing the initial engagement, conducting discovery, preparing a written report, and concluding with mock trial testimony.