Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s Master of Accountancy (M.Acc.) program has officially received the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) certification from the Department of Homeland Security, becoming just the second university in the state and one of a limited number in the nation to hold the designation and be fully accredited by the AACSB International, the leading accreditation body.

"We are in the STEM field now due to the amount of STEM technology infused into our current accounting curriculum,” said Marc Morris, director of the School of Accountancy.

Important, particularly for international students

The STEM designation is significant for all students, but especially so for international students, Morris said.

The STEM designation recognizes that our program provides learning experiences to develop skills and knowledge related to the integration of information technology in accounting and demanded of professionals in public accountancy and the industry today,” he said. “As preparation for entry into a dynamic profession, the curriculum fosters clear logical and analytical thought processes, effective oral and written communications and lifelong learning skills.”

SIU’s program is now eligible for the Department of Homeland Security’s OPT visa extension program. This means international students in the U.S. on an F-1 visa are eligible for a 24-month extension, giving them up to 36 months of work authorization through this program.

More information

M.Acc. degree-holders typically pursue careers as professional accountants in public practice, industry, financial institutions, government and nonprofit organizations.

SIU offers both on-campus and online Master of Accountancy programs. Each is a 30 credit-hour program, comprising 10 courses that students can complete in one year of full-time study.

To learn more about the M.Acc. program, visit the website or email macc@business.siu.edu.