Graduate Study in Business

The School of Business offers two graduate degrees: The master of business administration (M.B.A.) in entertainment and media management, and master of science (M.S.) in accounting. The master of business administration (M.B.A.) in entertainment and media management requires 36 credits of graduate study. The master of science (M.S.) in accounting requires 30 credits of graduate study.

M.S. in Accounting

Ithaca’s master of science in accounting program prepares graduates to provide auditing, consulting, and income tax services for individuals, corporations, and not-for-profit organizations. Core courses provide advanced training in the theory and application of financial accounting and reporting, taxation, auditing, and contemporary accounting practices. Accounting and graduate business electives allow students to tailor a program geared toward a focus in taxation or assurance, or to satisfy individual interests and career goals.

The M.S. in accounting program is registered with the New York State Education Department, enabling graduates to meet the educational requirements necessary to be licensed as a certified public accountant (CPA) in New York State. The program also addresses the 150-hour requirements in 43 other states, Washington, D.C., Guam, and Puerto Rico (see individual state requirements for any variations).

The M.S. in accounting is tailored primarily to students with undergraduate accounting degrees but is open to any candidate who meets entry requirements. Consult the program director regarding eligibility.

MBA in Entertainment and Media Management

Ithaca's MBA program focuses on the business aspects of the entertainment and media industries as they relate to all aspects of the entertainment industry, including the music, film, and television sectors. The curriculum provides students with foundational knowledge in the areas of negotiations, accounting, entrepreneurship, and global aspects of the industry. Students develop an advanced understanding of the role that analytics, finance, and law play in the entertainment industry.

The hallmark of the program is the immersive, experiential learning component.  This aspect of the program requires students to run a multifaceted production company, South Hill Entertainment, which allows them to practice the theories and concepts learned in the curriculum. In the required practicum courses, students gain direct experience with the full spectrum of operational decisions involved in running media and entertainment businesses and producing creative content. Students will sign, develop, and distribute releases of video, audio and musical works, as well as develop a live event. In this way, the program prepares students to meet current industry needs as well as to be able to adapt to, and lead in, an ever-changing industry.

For more information see the Ithaca College graduate catalog.