Taxation Archive 2020-2021

MST Curriculum Archive 2020-2021

MST Curriculum

11-13 Courses
31-37 Credits

Program Length:

  • Full-time in as few as 9 months
  • Part-time in as few as 21 months

Required Introductory Course (1 credit)

Must be taken on campus in first semester of program.

Credits:

1.00

Description:

SBS-700 is the first required course in Suffolk's graduate programs. The course is based on the precepts of experiential learning. Based on the idea that people learn best by participating in meaningful activities this course provides you with the opportunity to identify your strengths, interests, values, vision, and capabilities, and identify next steps to leverage your program and realize your professional goals.

Accounting Preparation Courses (6 credits)

May be waived.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This introductory-level accounting course provides students with a solid base in accounting fundamentals, including U.S. GAAP, the conceptual framework, nature of accounts, journal entries, and ultimately, financial statements. Provides in-depth coverage of the process by which accountants analyze, journalize, post, and summarize transactions. Reviews and analyzes multiple examples of current "real life" financial statements. The students would practice data analytics through the analysis of companies' financial ratios. The course includes a discussion of ethical issues facing accounting professionals and time value of money techniques. For MSA, GCA, & MST students, this is the first course in the financial accounting sequence. For MBA students, this potential elective course builds upon concepts learned in MBA 640.

Prerequisites:

ACCT-800 or MSA Program Director permission

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This is the first of two intermediate-level accounting courses that build on students' learning in ACCT 800, going in-depth into measurement and reporting of asset, liability, and stockholders' equity accounts for external financial reporting purposes. Discusses pronouncements of authoritative sources such as the SEC, AICPA, and the FASB. Introduces students to IFRS and their similarities to and differences from U.S. GAAP. Develops strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

MST Core Courses (12 credits)

 

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course focuses on the federal income taxation of individuals with some discussion of business entity taxation where the topics are applicable to both areas of tax law. The course explores the basic structure of individual income taxation, including gross income, exclusions, deductions, credits, the alternative minimum tax and the tax formula. The course also covers a basic introduction to the taxation of property transactions which is the focus of TAX 802. It emphasizes professional tax practice by incorporating research, professional writing and communication skills and the preparation of complex tax returns. The attainment of these essentials skills is facilitated by the routine exposure to the interpretation of statutes of the Internal Revenue Code, the review of Treasury Regulations, and the exploration of various court cases and rulings as applied to various fact patterns and case studies.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Title 26 of the United States Code, otherwise known as the Internal Revenue Code, is among the most complicated area of the law to research. Statutes, regulations, and agency issuances interact to create a complicated set of legal precedents. This course covers tax research methods, including identifying and defining tax questions, locating appropriate authority, and interpreting statutes, cases, and rulings. This course will also emphasize effective oral and written communication of research findings and recommendations, and proper administration, ethics, and responsibilities of tax practice.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course examines the concepts, principles and practices of taxation of corporations and their shareholders. The effects of taxation on corporate formation, capital structure, income tax calculation, corporate distributions to shareholders, stock redemptions, and partial and complete liquidation are covered. Tax planning and professional practice will be emphasized throughout the course via realistic tax cases and the completion of a comprehensive corporate tax return problem, including adjusting entries, work paper preparation and a tax accrual calculation. To enhance oral presentation skills students will analyze a realistic case and will present aspects of the case to the class.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course provides an in-depth study of pass-through entities inclusive of partnerships, Subchapter S corporations, limited liability companies and other tax issues related to closely held businesses. The course covers entity selection, entity formation, allocations of income, maintenance of capital accounts, taxation of operations, transactions, contributions, distributions, mixing bowl transactions, sales of ownership interests and other current issues. The course develops procedural skills by including the examination and application of relevant Code sections, regulations, and case law. Emphasis is placed on professional tax practice by incorporating a case study which promotes the development of decision making, tax planning, technical writing and communication skills to be employed in advising clients and business partners.

Capstone Course (3 credits)

Prerequisites:

TAX-801, TAX-862, and TAX-863 (may be taken concurrently)

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course is the MST program's Capstone. The course focuses on the study of the U.S. tax compliance process, the required tax forms, and the use of primary tax software to prepare and file timely tax returns for corporate and pass-through entities. Students gain exposure to professional tax practice by employing the use of IRS form instructions, preparing complex tax forms, and completing other compliance tasks. Students also gain real world tax practice exposure by developing fundamental tax return review skills via the review of completed tax returns in which they are tasked with identifying errors. The course further emphasizes the importance of tax elections and tax planning strategies which have been introduced throughout the program's curriculum.

Elective Courses (15 credits)

Three (3) of your electives must be in TAX. The remaining two electives could be in TAX and/or ACCT, or, with approval from the MST Program Director, other Sawyer Business School 700 or 800 level or higher courses.

Approved MST Electives

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course builds upon the basic exposure to the taxation of property transactions in TAX 801. The course explores realization and recognition issues related to the disposition of property. It includes the coverage of basis, holding period, the characterization of gains and losses, passive activity and at-risk rules, amortization, depreciation and depreciation recapture, and other current tax topics related to property transactions. It emphasizes professional tax practice by incorporating the research of complex transactions, the preparation of tax journal entries, and professional writing and communication skills. Tax planning skills are learned via the exploration of transaction structuring techniques that minimize or defer tax exposure.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course focuses on understanding the difference between tax avoidance and tax evasion. Ethics and tax practitioner regulation will be presented and explored. Upon successful course completion, students should know and understand the laws governing practice before the IRS and how the IRS is organized and administrated. Tax deficiencies, assessments, claims for refunds, statutes of limitation and the appeal process will be explained and illustrated. Selected Code sections, regulations, Internal Revenue Manual (IRM) provisions and case law will be analyzed to understand tax practice. The Collection Process used by Revenue Officers will be described. The taxpayers' ability to make Installment Agreements or Offers in Compromise will be studied and presented. Indirect methods of accounting used by IRS Revenue Agents will be identified and examined. The course emphasizes tax practice by incorporating technical writing skills to be employed in responding to tax notice correspondence from taxing authorities. Additionally, tax practice is emphasized via the incorporation of a case study which requires an oral presentation of a written protest in defense of a taxpayer under audit.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 and TAX-862 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course studies the U.S. taxation of U.S. persons with non-U.S. income and or activities, or both. The course examines foreign tax credit principles and includes hands on application of the foreign tax credit limitation rules. The course covers individuals with earned foreign income, controlled foreign corporations, and provides an overview of earnings and profits, tested income, Subpart F income and investment in U.S. property. The curriculum of the course has been revised to incorporate the substantial additions and modifications to the U.S. international tax system resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act including the Global Intangible Low Tax-Taxed Income (GILTI), Base Erosion and Anti-Abuse Tax (BEAT) and the Foreign-Derived Intangible Income (FDII). The curriculum includes foreign currency issues, an overview of income tax treaties, other current international tax issues, and addresses compliance and disclosure requirements. The course incorporates tax practice by employing a case study that allows hands on application of the course curriculum as it relates to the calculation and reporting of non-U.S. transactions and the completion of relevant tax forms.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course strikes a balance between theoretical concepts and practical, real-world issues and covers the interrelationships between the federal and state taxation systems. The course also delves into the limitations upon the states' authority to tax which arise from U.S. Constitutional and federal law. The major types of taxes are covered which include sales and use taxes, corporate income, franchise taxes, and excise taxes. The course emphasizes a case review approach to the study of state and local taxation. Students will be exposed to current developments via the analysis of current tax cases from various states and local taxing authorities and recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions. The ability to practice in this area requires strong research skills as tax law routinely changes at the state and local level and changes in federal tax law can pose significant implications on the states' enforcement of its tax laws. In order to meet this expectation, the course focuses on professional tax practice skills development by incorporating research of current tax law and its implication as it relates to an assigned case study. The case study requires that students develop a tax planning strategy and present a recommendation based on their research findings and the overall business strategy of a given entity.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 and TAX-862 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course examines the IRC corporate provisions of both tax-free and taxable acquisitions and reorganizations in relation to various acquisitive and reorganizational transactions. Topics include acquisition methods such as asset purchase, stock purchase, and contribution and acquisition combinations. Topics also covered include the continuity of enterprise and interest issues in conjunction with the tax treatment accorded a transaction, carryovers, limitations, basis, and consolidated tax returns. The course incorporates professional tax practice via the implementation of a case study approach which requires the examination of Code provisions, case law and current tax practice in devising a tax strategy that identifies the most tax advantaged acquisition or reorganization based on an assigned fact pattern, and the completion of a consolidated tax return.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course primarily focuses on the taxation of U.S. citizens and residents as it relates to estates, trusts and gift taxes. Due to recent growth in the global mobility of persons, the course also introduces tax issues surrounding the estate and gift tax burden of non-U.S. persons who are domiciled in the U.S. or who have never been domiciled in the U.S. but must be considered in U.S. estate and gift tax planning. The tax implication related to various types of trusts and their use in estate planning is also analyzed. Topics covered include, income in respect to a decedent, generation-skipping transfer taxes, the implication of administrative powers, terminations, distributable net income and other recent developments. The course emphasizes tax professional tax practice by incorporating research based on the analysis of various practical tax scenarios and the preparation of estate, gift and trust tax returns.

Prerequisites:

Take TAX-801 or receive MST Program Director approval

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course covers the tax and regulatory issues related to investment companies. The course also introduces the regulation and taxation of securities, derivatives, commodities, options, and other types of hybrid financial products. Topics introduced may include the global intangible low-taxed income, financial transactions involving mergers and acquisitions, Base Erosion Anti-Abuse Tax and the implication for across border hybrid tax planning strategies resulting from changes in tax regulations, and other current topics.

Prerequisites:

Take TAX-801 and TAX-862, or receive MST Program Director approval.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Accounting for income taxes and their financial statement impact is one of the most complex aspects of US GAAP and one of the most risky areas prone to financial misstatements and audit issues. This course covers the principals of accounting for income taxes under ASC 740. Topics include calculation of current and deferred taxes, valuation allowance, uncertain tax positions (formerly FIN 48), and issues pertaining to multinational companies including permanently reinvested earnings. The course exposes students to professional tax practice by incorporating a case assignment which includes financial statements and requires the preparation of the adjusting journal entries, the preparation of the tax footnotes to include the deferred asset/liability, the calculation of the effective tax rate, and writing of the related disclosures.

Prerequisites:

Take TAX-801 or receive MST Program Director approval

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course focuses principally upon the interface of our federal tax system with the criminal justice system. The course covers select federal tax crimes found in United States Code (U.S.C.) Title 26, including tax evasion and false returns. Additionally, a selection of federal crimes found in Title 18 is examined including conspiracy and false statements. The course also covers the legal, evidentiary, and procedural challenges presented in the investigation and prosecution of criminal tax cases.

Prerequisites:

Take TAX-801 or recieve MST Program Director approval

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course is an overview course on international tax practice with emphasis on inbound, taxation of non-U.S. domestic entities with income generated within the U.S., and outbound taxation, taxation of U.S. domestic entities with income generated outside of U.S. borders. Students gain an understanding of the concept of nexus and its implications as it relates to an entity's potential tax reporting responsibilities and tax liability within the U.S. The course introduces students to the limitations on taxing authority as it relates to foreign entities as a consequence of protections afforded under U.S. constitutional and federal law, the implications of foreign tax treaties, and the strategies employed to avoid the risk of double taxation. The course emphasizes professional tax practice by employing a case study approach in which research of international tax matters is conducted, a written analysis of the findings is prepared and recommendations are presented.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

1.00- 3.00

Description:

Enables a student-initiated directed study project. The student and faculty advisor must concur on a written proposal and final report. The project must be approved by the dean of academic affairs prior to registration.

Prerequisites:

ACCT-801

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Builds on all previous courses in the ACCT 800-series. Focuses on accounting for business combinations/consolidations and partnerships.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Examines the concepts and practices of cost measurement: variable costing, cost-volume-profit analysis, goal setting and performance monitoring, standard costing, and variance analysis. Students learn how to prepare a financial plan for a business by constructing operating, working capital, and capital budgets. Students study and practice Excel skills and how those are used to build a financial plan, analyze the sensitivity of the financial plan to different changes, examine performance, and measure and control overhead costs. Students study data analytics techniques and perform analyses in support of decisions, such as pricing, setting product line and customer profitability policy, sourcing of products and services, and matching costing systems to strategy. For MSA, GCA, & MST students this is the first managerial accounting course you will take. For MBA students, this potential elective course builds upon concepts learned in MBA 640.

Prerequisites:

ACCT-800 or MBA-640

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Introduces the field of auditing, with a concentration in auditing historical financial statements in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards, and some exposure to auditing the internal control over financial reporting of large public companies. Covers the environment, standards, regulation, and law of auditing in the US, with some exposure to the international environment. Covers audit planning, risk, and materiality assessments, audit evidence, evaluation of internal control, documentation, and audit reports. Includes researching and resolving practice-oriented problems and practice in using computer-assisted audit techniques and electronic confirmations.

Prerequisites:

ACCT-800 or MBA-640

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Examines the pervasiveness and genres of fraud and explores the motivations, opportunities, and rationalizations that facilitate fraudulent behavior. Covers methods of detection, investigation, and prevention of financial statement frauds and other types of financial-related frauds.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course examines the techniques used by forensic accountants to conduct investigations of white collar crime. Students will learn what fraud is, how we prevent it, how we detect it, and how we document our findings. They will learn about the "elements of crime" that must be proven for a specific statute (e.g., Title 26 U.S.C. 7201 - Tax Evasion) to be successfully prosecuted. A case study will be utilized to demonstrate the investigative process from inception to conclusion. Through the case, students will learn how to: gather and document evidence; write memorandums, affidavits, and recommendation of prosecution reports; conduct investigative interviews by preparing an interview outline, building rapport, asking follow-up questions, and learning to detect deceit; and provide testimony in a mock trial to a (friendly) prosecutor and (aggressive) defense attorney.

Prerequisites:

ACCT-800 or MBA-640, and MBA-650 or program director approval

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course consists of two parts. The first part teaches students how to use Tableau to analyze large data sets and visualize data patterns to derive meaningful, actionable insights. We will utilize different data sets containing detailed information on sales, inventory, and other operational and financial metrics. This part will also introduce some basic tools used in accessing and compiling relevant big data from online resources such as the SEC's EDGAR website and Twitter. Students will be provided with necessary computer code and software to perform textual analysis for company documents and social media posts. The second part focuses on the analysis of financial statement data in an automated fashion. We will employ advanced tools in Excel along with the state-of-the-art data sources including Calcbench to perform financial data analytics and peer benchmarking. Our discussion on financial ratios and credit risk will have an analytical emphasis. This part will conclude with exercises on forecasting income statement data and valuing public companies.

Prerequisites:

ACCT-804 and ACCT-800 or MBA-640 or program director approval

Credits:

3

Description:

This case based course, teaches students how to better use information for improved decision making. Students will study how to identify the relevant information that is needed to make decisions. The decisions discussed will span a variety of business areas including accounting, finance, marketing and others. A special emphasis would be put on developing and strengthening the students' presentation skills in both face to face and online environments. Students will learn to speak influentially and effectively about numbers and communicate their conclusions and suggested decisions to different stakeholders.

Prerequisites:

Take MBA-650 and SBS-603 (previous); Take ACCT-804 and TAX-801 (previous or concurrent); be eligible to sit for the CPA exam

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This fast-paced intensive course will help prepare students for the REG section of the CPA exam. The course will cover topics that aren't typically covered in a personal federal taxation course, but that are covered on the REG section of the CPA exam. These include ethics, business law, government regulation of business and business structure, legal trusts and entities, taxation on property, and more. Students will be expected to sit for REG in early- to mid-January; therefore, it is required that students are eligible to sit before taking this course. Eligibility is determined by the Massachusetts Board of Public Accountancy. Class will be a mix of on campus and online sessions, with some potential flexibility in the timing of the online sessions, depending on student needs.

Prerequisites:

Take ACCT-800, ACCT-801, and ACCT-805; be eligible to sit for the CPA exam

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This fast-paced, intensive course will help prepare students for the FAR section of the CPA exam. The course will cover topics that aren't covered in a financial accounting series, but that are covered on the FAR section of the CPA exam. These include advanced accounting topics such as business combinations, derivatives and hedge accounting, and foreign currency transactions; state and local government concepts; not-for-profit accounting; and more. Students will be expected to sit for FAR in either late May or early July; therefore, it is required that students are eligible to sit before taking this course. Eligibility is determined by the Massachusetts Board of Public Accountancy. Class will be a mix of on campus and online sessions, with some potential flexibility in the timing of the online sessions, depending on student needs.

Prerequisites:

ACCT-800 or MBA-640

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Describes various transaction processing cycles and their use in the structured analysis and design of accounting information systems. Students gain an understanding of Enterprise Resource Planning softwares, Quickbooks, database design, XBRL, implementations of internal controls, and privacy and data security issues.

Prerequisites:

MBA-640 or ACCT-800

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Covers unique aspects of financial reporting in not-for-profit organizations and governmental units. Topics include fund accounting, encumbrance accounting, GASB pronouncements, cost accounting, and budgetary control for government and its agencies, healthcare, educational, religious and other not-for-profit organizations. Students learn how to apply the cost benefit analysis in the resources allocation process, program planning, budgeting and reporting systems.

Prerequisites:

ACCT-800 or MBA-640

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Imparts an understanding of differences among nations in approaches to disclosure and choices of accounting measurement systems. Students learn about the influence of the IASB and IOSCO on multinational accounting harmonization, contrasting historical cost/purchasing power accounting with other accounting approaches, including current value accounting. Students will assess how differences in industrial and ownership structures affect accounting performance measurement. Students will also analyze risk management, accounting for derivative contracts, consolidation accounting, budgetary control, and transfer pricing in a multinational company.

Prerequisites:

SBS-700. International students must complete 2 academic semesters before approved. Approval of Program Director/Course Coordinator and SBS Dean of Graduate Programs required.

Credits:

0.00

Description:

This internship course is for students who are working in an approved graduate level internship in a company, non-profit organization, or public agency. The internship is described in a written proposal agreed upon by the company sponsor and intern. The internship must be approved by the International Student Services Office (international students only), Program Director/Course Coordinator and SBS Dean of Graduate Programs. The internship is intended for international students who wish to participate in a practical, degree related experience. This course does not count toward a degree. International students must receive Curricular Practical Training (CPT) approval with the International Student Services Office PRIOR to beginning an internship.

 

MST Concentration

The MS in Taxation Program requires five (5) electives as a part of the degree program. Students may declare a concentration in Corporate Taxation. If a concentration is declared, all electives must be TAX from the list below. The schedule of when courses within a concentration are offered vary by semester.

Corporate Taxation Concentration

Dive into the intricacies of corporate tax and prepare to work in a multinational, multi-state or small domestic corporate firm.

Required Courses (6 credits)

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course builds upon the basic exposure to the taxation of property transactions in TAX 801. The course explores realization and recognition issues related to the disposition of property. It includes the coverage of basis, holding period, the characterization of gains and losses, passive activity and at-risk rules, amortization, depreciation and depreciation recapture, and other current tax topics related to property transactions. It emphasizes professional tax practice by incorporating the research of complex transactions, the preparation of tax journal entries, and professional writing and communication skills. Tax planning skills are learned via the exploration of transaction structuring techniques that minimize or defer tax exposure.

Prerequisites:

Take TAX-801 and TAX-862, or receive MST Program Director approval.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Accounting for income taxes and their financial statement impact is one of the most complex aspects of US GAAP and one of the most risky areas prone to financial misstatements and audit issues. This course covers the principals of accounting for income taxes under ASC 740. Topics include calculation of current and deferred taxes, valuation allowance, uncertain tax positions (formerly FIN 48), and issues pertaining to multinational companies including permanently reinvested earnings. The course exposes students to professional tax practice by incorporating a case assignment which includes financial statements and requires the preparation of the adjusting journal entries, the preparation of the tax footnotes to include the deferred asset/liability, the calculation of the effective tax rate, and writing of the related disclosures.

Choose three (3) electives from the following list: (9 credits)

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 and TAX-862 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course studies the U.S. taxation of U.S. persons with non-U.S. income and or activities, or both. The course examines foreign tax credit principles and includes hands on application of the foreign tax credit limitation rules. The course covers individuals with earned foreign income, controlled foreign corporations, and provides an overview of earnings and profits, tested income, Subpart F income and investment in U.S. property. The curriculum of the course has been revised to incorporate the substantial additions and modifications to the U.S. international tax system resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act including the Global Intangible Low Tax-Taxed Income (GILTI), Base Erosion and Anti-Abuse Tax (BEAT) and the Foreign-Derived Intangible Income (FDII). The curriculum includes foreign currency issues, an overview of income tax treaties, other current international tax issues, and addresses compliance and disclosure requirements. The course incorporates tax practice by employing a case study that allows hands on application of the course curriculum as it relates to the calculation and reporting of non-U.S. transactions and the completion of relevant tax forms.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course strikes a balance between theoretical concepts and practical, real-world issues and covers the interrelationships between the federal and state taxation systems. The course also delves into the limitations upon the states' authority to tax which arise from U.S. Constitutional and federal law. The major types of taxes are covered which include sales and use taxes, corporate income, franchise taxes, and excise taxes. The course emphasizes a case review approach to the study of state and local taxation. Students will be exposed to current developments via the analysis of current tax cases from various states and local taxing authorities and recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions. The ability to practice in this area requires strong research skills as tax law routinely changes at the state and local level and changes in federal tax law can pose significant implications on the states' enforcement of its tax laws. In order to meet this expectation, the course focuses on professional tax practice skills development by incorporating research of current tax law and its implication as it relates to an assigned case study. The case study requires that students develop a tax planning strategy and present a recommendation based on their research findings and the overall business strategy of a given entity.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 and TAX-862 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course examines the IRC corporate provisions of both tax-free and taxable acquisitions and reorganizations in relation to various acquisitive and reorganizational transactions. Topics include acquisition methods such as asset purchase, stock purchase, and contribution and acquisition combinations. Topics also covered include the continuity of enterprise and interest issues in conjunction with the tax treatment accorded a transaction, carryovers, limitations, basis, and consolidated tax returns. The course incorporates professional tax practice via the implementation of a case study approach which requires the examination of Code provisions, case law and current tax practice in devising a tax strategy that identifies the most tax advantaged acquisition or reorganization based on an assigned fact pattern, and the completion of a consolidated tax return.

Prerequisites:

Take TAX-801 or receive MST Program Director approval

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course covers the tax and regulatory issues related to investment companies. The course also introduces the regulation and taxation of securities, derivatives, commodities, options, and other types of hybrid financial products. Topics introduced may include the global intangible low-taxed income, financial transactions involving mergers and acquisitions, Base Erosion Anti-Abuse Tax and the implication for across border hybrid tax planning strategies resulting from changes in tax regulations, and other current topics.

Prerequisites:

Take TAX-801 or recieve MST Program Director approval

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course is an overview course on international tax practice with emphasis on inbound, taxation of non-U.S. domestic entities with income generated within the U.S., and outbound taxation, taxation of U.S. domestic entities with income generated outside of U.S. borders. Students gain an understanding of the concept of nexus and its implications as it relates to an entity's potential tax reporting responsibilities and tax liability within the U.S. The course introduces students to the limitations on taxing authority as it relates to foreign entities as a consequence of protections afforded under U.S. constitutional and federal law, the implications of foreign tax treaties, and the strategies employed to avoid the risk of double taxation. The course emphasizes professional tax practice by employing a case study approach in which research of international tax matters is conducted, a written analysis of the findings is prepared and recommendations are presented.

MST Learning Goals & Objectives

Learning Goals Learning Objectives

Demonstrate ability to apply analytical reasoning skills to effectively engage in tax research.

(Analytical Reasoning)

  1. Identify the problem and related issues
  2. Identify key assumptions
  3. Generates salient alternatives
  4. Quality of evidence
  5. Identify conclusions, implications, and consequences

(Research Skills)

  1. Demonstrate competency in utilizing tax resource databases to search for relevant tax authorities
  2. Identify and refine a tax problem
  3. Assess the relative applicability and weights of relevant authorities

Demonstrate ability to effectively identify and communicate ethical issues related to taxation.

(Ethical Issues Related to Taxation)

  1. Identify conflicts of interests and pressures that could lead to unethical conduct
  2. Understand what kinds of questions are helpful to ask oneself when confronting an ethical dilemma
  3. Demonstrate the ability to identify and take into account the interests of different stakeholders
  4. Understand how business strategies that facilitate “doing good” can be made consistent with profitability
  5. Understand that what is legal may not always be ethical and that what is ethical may sometimes not be legal
  6. Appreciate that ethical norms vary across different countries and cultures

Demonstrate effective oral communication about tax information.

(Oral Communication)

  1. Organize the presentation effectively
  2. Deliver the presentation with attention to volume, clarity, grammatical correctness and precision
  3. Develop the topic
  4. Communicate with the audience
  5. Use communication aids effectively
  6. Summarize the presentation

Demonstrate effective written communication about tax information.

(Written Communication)

  1. Develop a topic with supporting details
  2. Organize written communication effectively and logically
  3. Use correct word choice and effective sentence structure
  4. Employ normal conventions of spelling and grammar
  5. Provide examples and supporting evidence
  6. Communicate accurate quantitative information

How to effectively use technology with a systems focus.

  1. Demonstrate competence in the effective use of technology, such as Excel, QuickBooks, Data Analytics Software, Tax Planning and Preparation Software, etc.

Waiver Policy

Accounting Preparation Courses may be waived.

To waive an accounting preparation course, a student must successfully complete equivalent academic coursework at the undergraduate/graduate level at a U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) in the seven (7) years prior to MST matriculation, with a grade of “B” or better.

Students must provide official transcripts (with English translations, if applicable). All waiver requests are evaluated upon a student's acceptance into the MST Program.

All MST students must complete a minimum of 31 graduate credits (10 courses and SBS 700) in the Sawyer Business School.

Transfer Credit Policy

Any candidate seeking transfer credits, taken at the graduate level from an AACSB-accredited MBA, MSA, MSF, or MST program, will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. These credits may be considered for transfer if the credits do not apply to a previously completed degree.

Transfer credits must have an earned grade of "B" or better and be taken within five (5) years prior to entering the Suffolk MST program. However, at the discretion of the program director, taxation core courses may not be transferred if the subject material has changed significantly since completion. Elective or taxation core courses may be considered for transfer.

Transfer Credits from the Moakley Center for Public Management’s Certificate Programs

Students who have completed a certificate program through the Suffolk University Moakley Center for Public Management may have an opportunity to reduce credit requirements to an SBS graduate degree program (MBA, MMS, MSA, MST, MHA, MSBA, or MSM). All course waivers and/or transfers vary by program and are reviewed on a case-by-case basis by the respective SBS Graduate Programs Office.

In order for a course to be considered it must meet the following criteria: must have an SBS graduate program course equivalent; received a grade of "B" or better; and successfully completed the certificate prior to enrolling in the SBS graduate degree program.

Applicants must also meet the admission standards for the SBS Graduate degree program to which they are applying.

 

Accelerated MST for Attorneys Archive 2020-2021

Learn more about this accelerated degree

Accelerated MST for Attorneys Curriculum

10-12 Courses
28-34 Credits

Program Length:

  • Full-time in as few as 9 months
  • Part-time in as few as 16 months

Required Introductory Course (1 credit)

Must be taken on campus in first semester of program.

Credits:

1.00

Description:

SBS-700 is the first required course in Suffolk's graduate programs. The course is based on the precepts of experiential learning. Based on the idea that people learn best by participating in meaningful activities this course provides you with the opportunity to identify your strengths, interests, values, vision, and capabilities, and identify next steps to leverage your program and realize your professional goals.

Accounting Preparation Courses (6 credits)

May be waived.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This introductory-level accounting course provides students with a solid base in accounting fundamentals, including U.S. GAAP, the conceptual framework, nature of accounts, journal entries, and ultimately, financial statements. Provides in-depth coverage of the process by which accountants analyze, journalize, post, and summarize transactions. Reviews and analyzes multiple examples of current "real life" financial statements. The students would practice data analytics through the analysis of companies' financial ratios. The course includes a discussion of ethical issues facing accounting professionals and time value of money techniques. For MSA, GCA, & MST students, this is the first course in the financial accounting sequence. For MBA students, this potential elective course builds upon concepts learned in MBA 640.

Prerequisites:

ACCT-800 or MSA Program Director permission

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This is the first of two intermediate-level accounting courses that build on students' learning in ACCT 800, going in-depth into measurement and reporting of asset, liability, and stockholders' equity accounts for external financial reporting purposes. Discusses pronouncements of authoritative sources such as the SEC, AICPA, and the FASB. Introduces students to IFRS and their similarities to and differences from U.S. GAAP. Develops strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

MST Core Courses (9 credits)


Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course focuses on the federal income taxation of individuals with some discussion of business entity taxation where the topics are applicable to both areas of tax law. The course explores the basic structure of individual income taxation, including gross income, exclusions, deductions, credits, the alternative minimum tax and the tax formula. The course also covers a basic introduction to the taxation of property transactions which is the focus of TAX 802. It emphasizes professional tax practice by incorporating research, professional writing and communication skills and the preparation of complex tax returns. The attainment of these essentials skills is facilitated by the routine exposure to the interpretation of statutes of the Internal Revenue Code, the review of Treasury Regulations, and the exploration of various court cases and rulings as applied to various fact patterns and case studies.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course examines the concepts, principles and practices of taxation of corporations and their shareholders. The effects of taxation on corporate formation, capital structure, income tax calculation, corporate distributions to shareholders, stock redemptions, and partial and complete liquidation are covered. Tax planning and professional practice will be emphasized throughout the course via realistic tax cases and the completion of a comprehensive corporate tax return problem, including adjusting entries, work paper preparation and a tax accrual calculation. To enhance oral presentation skills students will analyze a realistic case and will present aspects of the case to the class.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course provides an in-depth study of pass-through entities inclusive of partnerships, Subchapter S corporations, limited liability companies and other tax issues related to closely held businesses. The course covers entity selection, entity formation, allocations of income, maintenance of capital accounts, taxation of operations, transactions, contributions, distributions, mixing bowl transactions, sales of ownership interests and other current issues. The course develops procedural skills by including the examination and application of relevant Code sections, regulations, and case law. Emphasis is placed on professional tax practice by incorporating a case study which promotes the development of decision making, tax planning, technical writing and communication skills to be employed in advising clients and business partners.

Capstone Course (3 credits)

Should be taken as late in the program as possible.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801, TAX-862, and TAX-863 (may be taken concurrently)

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course is the MST program's Capstone. The course focuses on the study of the U.S. tax compliance process, the required tax forms, and the use of primary tax software to prepare and file timely tax returns for corporate and pass-through entities. Students gain exposure to professional tax practice by employing the use of IRS form instructions, preparing complex tax forms, and completing other compliance tasks. Students also gain real world tax practice exposure by developing fundamental tax return review skills via the review of completed tax returns in which they are tasked with identifying errors. The course further emphasizes the importance of tax elections and tax planning strategies which have been introduced throughout the program's curriculum.

Elective Courses (15 credits)

Three of your electives must be in TAX. The remaining two electives could be in TAX and/or ACCT, or, with approval from the MST Program Director, other Sawyer Business School 700 or 800-level or higher courses.

 

Approved MST Electives:


Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course builds upon the basic exposure to the taxation of property transactions in TAX 801. The course explores realization and recognition issues related to the disposition of property. It includes the coverage of basis, holding period, the characterization of gains and losses, passive activity and at-risk rules, amortization, depreciation and depreciation recapture, and other current tax topics related to property transactions. It emphasizes professional tax practice by incorporating the research of complex transactions, the preparation of tax journal entries, and professional writing and communication skills. Tax planning skills are learned via the exploration of transaction structuring techniques that minimize or defer tax exposure.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course focuses on understanding the difference between tax avoidance and tax evasion. Ethics and tax practitioner regulation will be presented and explored. Upon successful course completion, students should know and understand the laws governing practice before the IRS and how the IRS is organized and administrated. Tax deficiencies, assessments, claims for refunds, statutes of limitation and the appeal process will be explained and illustrated. Selected Code sections, regulations, Internal Revenue Manual (IRM) provisions and case law will be analyzed to understand tax practice. The Collection Process used by Revenue Officers will be described. The taxpayers' ability to make Installment Agreements or Offers in Compromise will be studied and presented. Indirect methods of accounting used by IRS Revenue Agents will be identified and examined. The course emphasizes tax practice by incorporating technical writing skills to be employed in responding to tax notice correspondence from taxing authorities. Additionally, tax practice is emphasized via the incorporation of a case study which requires an oral presentation of a written protest in defense of a taxpayer under audit.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 and TAX-862 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course studies the U.S. taxation of U.S. persons with non-U.S. income and or activities, or both. The course examines foreign tax credit principles and includes hands on application of the foreign tax credit limitation rules. The course covers individuals with earned foreign income, controlled foreign corporations, and provides an overview of earnings and profits, tested income, Subpart F income and investment in U.S. property. The curriculum of the course has been revised to incorporate the substantial additions and modifications to the U.S. international tax system resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act including the Global Intangible Low Tax-Taxed Income (GILTI), Base Erosion and Anti-Abuse Tax (BEAT) and the Foreign-Derived Intangible Income (FDII). The curriculum includes foreign currency issues, an overview of income tax treaties, other current international tax issues, and addresses compliance and disclosure requirements. The course incorporates tax practice by employing a case study that allows hands on application of the course curriculum as it relates to the calculation and reporting of non-U.S. transactions and the completion of relevant tax forms.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course strikes a balance between theoretical concepts and practical, real-world issues and covers the interrelationships between the federal and state taxation systems. The course also delves into the limitations upon the states' authority to tax which arise from U.S. Constitutional and federal law. The major types of taxes are covered which include sales and use taxes, corporate income, franchise taxes, and excise taxes. The course emphasizes a case review approach to the study of state and local taxation. Students will be exposed to current developments via the analysis of current tax cases from various states and local taxing authorities and recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions. The ability to practice in this area requires strong research skills as tax law routinely changes at the state and local level and changes in federal tax law can pose significant implications on the states' enforcement of its tax laws. In order to meet this expectation, the course focuses on professional tax practice skills development by incorporating research of current tax law and its implication as it relates to an assigned case study. The case study requires that students develop a tax planning strategy and present a recommendation based on their research findings and the overall business strategy of a given entity.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 and TAX-862 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course examines the IRC corporate provisions of both tax-free and taxable acquisitions and reorganizations in relation to various acquisitive and reorganizational transactions. Topics include acquisition methods such as asset purchase, stock purchase, and contribution and acquisition combinations. Topics also covered include the continuity of enterprise and interest issues in conjunction with the tax treatment accorded a transaction, carryovers, limitations, basis, and consolidated tax returns. The course incorporates professional tax practice via the implementation of a case study approach which requires the examination of Code provisions, case law and current tax practice in devising a tax strategy that identifies the most tax advantaged acquisition or reorganization based on an assigned fact pattern, and the completion of a consolidated tax return.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course primarily focuses on the taxation of U.S. citizens and residents as it relates to estates, trusts and gift taxes. Due to recent growth in the global mobility of persons, the course also introduces tax issues surrounding the estate and gift tax burden of non-U.S. persons who are domiciled in the U.S. or who have never been domiciled in the U.S. but must be considered in U.S. estate and gift tax planning. The tax implication related to various types of trusts and their use in estate planning is also analyzed. Topics covered include, income in respect to a decedent, generation-skipping transfer taxes, the implication of administrative powers, terminations, distributable net income and other recent developments. The course emphasizes tax professional tax practice by incorporating research based on the analysis of various practical tax scenarios and the preparation of estate, gift and trust tax returns.

Prerequisites:

Take TAX-801 or receive MST Program Director approval

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course covers the tax and regulatory issues related to investment companies. The course also introduces the regulation and taxation of securities, derivatives, commodities, options, and other types of hybrid financial products. Topics introduced may include the global intangible low-taxed income, financial transactions involving mergers and acquisitions, Base Erosion Anti-Abuse Tax and the implication for across border hybrid tax planning strategies resulting from changes in tax regulations, and other current topics.

Prerequisites:

Take TAX-801 and TAX-862, or receive MST Program Director approval.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Accounting for income taxes and their financial statement impact is one of the most complex aspects of US GAAP and one of the most risky areas prone to financial misstatements and audit issues. This course covers the principals of accounting for income taxes under ASC 740. Topics include calculation of current and deferred taxes, valuation allowance, uncertain tax positions (formerly FIN 48), and issues pertaining to multinational companies including permanently reinvested earnings. The course exposes students to professional tax practice by incorporating a case assignment which includes financial statements and requires the preparation of the adjusting journal entries, the preparation of the tax footnotes to include the deferred asset/liability, the calculation of the effective tax rate, and writing of the related disclosures.

Prerequisites:

Take TAX-801 or receive MST Program Director approval

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course focuses principally upon the interface of our federal tax system with the criminal justice system. The course covers select federal tax crimes found in United States Code (U.S.C.) Title 26, including tax evasion and false returns. Additionally, a selection of federal crimes found in Title 18 is examined including conspiracy and false statements. The course also covers the legal, evidentiary, and procedural challenges presented in the investigation and prosecution of criminal tax cases.

Prerequisites:

Take TAX-801 or recieve MST Program Director approval

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course is an overview course on international tax practice with emphasis on inbound, taxation of non-U.S. domestic entities with income generated within the U.S., and outbound taxation, taxation of U.S. domestic entities with income generated outside of U.S. borders. Students gain an understanding of the concept of nexus and its implications as it relates to an entity's potential tax reporting responsibilities and tax liability within the U.S. The course introduces students to the limitations on taxing authority as it relates to foreign entities as a consequence of protections afforded under U.S. constitutional and federal law, the implications of foreign tax treaties, and the strategies employed to avoid the risk of double taxation. The course emphasizes professional tax practice by employing a case study approach in which research of international tax matters is conducted, a written analysis of the findings is prepared and recommendations are presented.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

1.00- 3.00

Description:

Enables a student-initiated directed study project. The student and faculty advisor must concur on a written proposal and final report. The project must be approved by the dean of academic affairs prior to registration.

Prerequisites:

ACCT-801

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Builds on all previous courses in the ACCT 800-series. Focuses on accounting for business combinations/consolidations and partnerships.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Examines the concepts and practices of cost measurement: variable costing, cost-volume-profit analysis, goal setting and performance monitoring, standard costing, and variance analysis. Students learn how to prepare a financial plan for a business by constructing operating, working capital, and capital budgets. Students study and practice Excel skills and how those are used to build a financial plan, analyze the sensitivity of the financial plan to different changes, examine performance, and measure and control overhead costs. Students study data analytics techniques and perform analyses in support of decisions, such as pricing, setting product line and customer profitability policy, sourcing of products and services, and matching costing systems to strategy. For MSA, GCA, & MST students this is the first managerial accounting course you will take. For MBA students, this potential elective course builds upon concepts learned in MBA 640.

Prerequisites:

ACCT-800 or MBA-640

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Introduces the field of auditing, with a concentration in auditing historical financial statements in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards, and some exposure to auditing the internal control over financial reporting of large public companies. Covers the environment, standards, regulation, and law of auditing in the US, with some exposure to the international environment. Covers audit planning, risk, and materiality assessments, audit evidence, evaluation of internal control, documentation, and audit reports. Includes researching and resolving practice-oriented problems and practice in using computer-assisted audit techniques and electronic confirmations.

Prerequisites:

ACCT-800 or MBA-640

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Examines the pervasiveness and genres of fraud and explores the motivations, opportunities, and rationalizations that facilitate fraudulent behavior. Covers methods of detection, investigation, and prevention of financial statement frauds and other types of financial-related frauds.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course examines the techniques used by forensic accountants to conduct investigations of white collar crime. Students will learn what fraud is, how we prevent it, how we detect it, and how we document our findings. They will learn about the "elements of crime" that must be proven for a specific statute (e.g., Title 26 U.S.C. 7201 - Tax Evasion) to be successfully prosecuted. A case study will be utilized to demonstrate the investigative process from inception to conclusion. Through the case, students will learn how to: gather and document evidence; write memorandums, affidavits, and recommendation of prosecution reports; conduct investigative interviews by preparing an interview outline, building rapport, asking follow-up questions, and learning to detect deceit; and provide testimony in a mock trial to a (friendly) prosecutor and (aggressive) defense attorney.

Prerequisites:

ACCT-800 or MBA-640, and MBA-650 or program director approval

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course consists of two parts. The first part teaches students how to use Tableau to analyze large data sets and visualize data patterns to derive meaningful, actionable insights. We will utilize different data sets containing detailed information on sales, inventory, and other operational and financial metrics. This part will also introduce some basic tools used in accessing and compiling relevant big data from online resources such as the SEC's EDGAR website and Twitter. Students will be provided with necessary computer code and software to perform textual analysis for company documents and social media posts. The second part focuses on the analysis of financial statement data in an automated fashion. We will employ advanced tools in Excel along with the state-of-the-art data sources including Calcbench to perform financial data analytics and peer benchmarking. Our discussion on financial ratios and credit risk will have an analytical emphasis. This part will conclude with exercises on forecasting income statement data and valuing public companies.

Prerequisites:

ACCT-804 and ACCT-800 or MBA-640 or program director approval

Credits:

3

Description:

This case based course, teaches students how to better use information for improved decision making. Students will study how to identify the relevant information that is needed to make decisions. The decisions discussed will span a variety of business areas including accounting, finance, marketing and others. A special emphasis would be put on developing and strengthening the students' presentation skills in both face to face and online environments. Students will learn to speak influentially and effectively about numbers and communicate their conclusions and suggested decisions to different stakeholders.

Prerequisites:

Take MBA-650 and SBS-603 (previous); Take ACCT-804 and TAX-801 (previous or concurrent); be eligible to sit for the CPA exam

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This fast-paced intensive course will help prepare students for the REG section of the CPA exam. The course will cover topics that aren't typically covered in a personal federal taxation course, but that are covered on the REG section of the CPA exam. These include ethics, business law, government regulation of business and business structure, legal trusts and entities, taxation on property, and more. Students will be expected to sit for REG in early- to mid-January; therefore, it is required that students are eligible to sit before taking this course. Eligibility is determined by the Massachusetts Board of Public Accountancy. Class will be a mix of on campus and online sessions, with some potential flexibility in the timing of the online sessions, depending on student needs.

Prerequisites:

Take ACCT-800, ACCT-801, and ACCT-805; be eligible to sit for the CPA exam

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This fast-paced, intensive course will help prepare students for the FAR section of the CPA exam. The course will cover topics that aren't covered in a financial accounting series, but that are covered on the FAR section of the CPA exam. These include advanced accounting topics such as business combinations, derivatives and hedge accounting, and foreign currency transactions; state and local government concepts; not-for-profit accounting; and more. Students will be expected to sit for FAR in either late May or early July; therefore, it is required that students are eligible to sit before taking this course. Eligibility is determined by the Massachusetts Board of Public Accountancy. Class will be a mix of on campus and online sessions, with some potential flexibility in the timing of the online sessions, depending on student needs.

Prerequisites:

ACCT-800 or MBA-640

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Describes various transaction processing cycles and their use in the structured analysis and design of accounting information systems. Students gain an understanding of Enterprise Resource Planning softwares, Quickbooks, database design, XBRL, implementations of internal controls, and privacy and data security issues.

Prerequisites:

MBA-640 or ACCT-800

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Covers unique aspects of financial reporting in not-for-profit organizations and governmental units. Topics include fund accounting, encumbrance accounting, GASB pronouncements, cost accounting, and budgetary control for government and its agencies, healthcare, educational, religious and other not-for-profit organizations. Students learn how to apply the cost benefit analysis in the resources allocation process, program planning, budgeting and reporting systems.

Prerequisites:

ACCT-800 or MBA-640

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Imparts an understanding of differences among nations in approaches to disclosure and choices of accounting measurement systems. Students learn about the influence of the IASB and IOSCO on multinational accounting harmonization, contrasting historical cost/purchasing power accounting with other accounting approaches, including current value accounting. Students will assess how differences in industrial and ownership structures affect accounting performance measurement. Students will also analyze risk management, accounting for derivative contracts, consolidation accounting, budgetary control, and transfer pricing in a multinational company.

Prerequisites:

SBS-700. International students must complete 2 academic semesters before approved. Approval of Program Director/Course Coordinator and SBS Dean of Graduate Programs required.

Credits:

0.00

Description:

This internship course is for students who are working in an approved graduate level internship in a company, non-profit organization, or public agency. The internship is described in a written proposal agreed upon by the company sponsor and intern. The internship must be approved by the International Student Services Office (international students only), Program Director/Course Coordinator and SBS Dean of Graduate Programs. The internship is intended for international students who wish to participate in a practical, degree related experience. This course does not count toward a degree. International students must receive Curricular Practical Training (CPT) approval with the International Student Services Office PRIOR to beginning an internship.


MST Concentration

The MS in Taxation Program requires five (5) electives as a part of the degree program. Students may declare a concentration in Corporate Taxation.  If a concentration is declared, all electives must be TAX from the list below.  The schedule of when courses within a concentration are offered vary by semester.

Corporate Taxation Concentration

Dive into the intricacies of corporate tax and prepare to work in a multinational, multi-state or small domestic corporate firm.

 

Required Courses: (6 Credits)

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course builds upon the basic exposure to the taxation of property transactions in TAX 801. The course explores realization and recognition issues related to the disposition of property. It includes the coverage of basis, holding period, the characterization of gains and losses, passive activity and at-risk rules, amortization, depreciation and depreciation recapture, and other current tax topics related to property transactions. It emphasizes professional tax practice by incorporating the research of complex transactions, the preparation of tax journal entries, and professional writing and communication skills. Tax planning skills are learned via the exploration of transaction structuring techniques that minimize or defer tax exposure.

Prerequisites:

Take TAX-801 and TAX-862, or receive MST Program Director approval.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Accounting for income taxes and their financial statement impact is one of the most complex aspects of US GAAP and one of the most risky areas prone to financial misstatements and audit issues. This course covers the principals of accounting for income taxes under ASC 740. Topics include calculation of current and deferred taxes, valuation allowance, uncertain tax positions (formerly FIN 48), and issues pertaining to multinational companies including permanently reinvested earnings. The course exposes students to professional tax practice by incorporating a case assignment which includes financial statements and requires the preparation of the adjusting journal entries, the preparation of the tax footnotes to include the deferred asset/liability, the calculation of the effective tax rate, and writing of the related disclosures.

Choose three (3) from the following list: (9 credits)

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 and TAX-862 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course studies the U.S. taxation of U.S. persons with non-U.S. income and or activities, or both. The course examines foreign tax credit principles and includes hands on application of the foreign tax credit limitation rules. The course covers individuals with earned foreign income, controlled foreign corporations, and provides an overview of earnings and profits, tested income, Subpart F income and investment in U.S. property. The curriculum of the course has been revised to incorporate the substantial additions and modifications to the U.S. international tax system resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act including the Global Intangible Low Tax-Taxed Income (GILTI), Base Erosion and Anti-Abuse Tax (BEAT) and the Foreign-Derived Intangible Income (FDII). The curriculum includes foreign currency issues, an overview of income tax treaties, other current international tax issues, and addresses compliance and disclosure requirements. The course incorporates tax practice by employing a case study that allows hands on application of the course curriculum as it relates to the calculation and reporting of non-U.S. transactions and the completion of relevant tax forms.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course strikes a balance between theoretical concepts and practical, real-world issues and covers the interrelationships between the federal and state taxation systems. The course also delves into the limitations upon the states' authority to tax which arise from U.S. Constitutional and federal law. The major types of taxes are covered which include sales and use taxes, corporate income, franchise taxes, and excise taxes. The course emphasizes a case review approach to the study of state and local taxation. Students will be exposed to current developments via the analysis of current tax cases from various states and local taxing authorities and recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions. The ability to practice in this area requires strong research skills as tax law routinely changes at the state and local level and changes in federal tax law can pose significant implications on the states' enforcement of its tax laws. In order to meet this expectation, the course focuses on professional tax practice skills development by incorporating research of current tax law and its implication as it relates to an assigned case study. The case study requires that students develop a tax planning strategy and present a recommendation based on their research findings and the overall business strategy of a given entity.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 and TAX-862 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course examines the IRC corporate provisions of both tax-free and taxable acquisitions and reorganizations in relation to various acquisitive and reorganizational transactions. Topics include acquisition methods such as asset purchase, stock purchase, and contribution and acquisition combinations. Topics also covered include the continuity of enterprise and interest issues in conjunction with the tax treatment accorded a transaction, carryovers, limitations, basis, and consolidated tax returns. The course incorporates professional tax practice via the implementation of a case study approach which requires the examination of Code provisions, case law and current tax practice in devising a tax strategy that identifies the most tax advantaged acquisition or reorganization based on an assigned fact pattern, and the completion of a consolidated tax return.

Prerequisites:

Take TAX-801 or receive MST Program Director approval

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course covers the tax and regulatory issues related to investment companies. The course also introduces the regulation and taxation of securities, derivatives, commodities, options, and other types of hybrid financial products. Topics introduced may include the global intangible low-taxed income, financial transactions involving mergers and acquisitions, Base Erosion Anti-Abuse Tax and the implication for across border hybrid tax planning strategies resulting from changes in tax regulations, and other current topics.

Prerequisites:

Take TAX-801 or recieve MST Program Director approval

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course is an overview course on international tax practice with emphasis on inbound, taxation of non-U.S. domestic entities with income generated within the U.S., and outbound taxation, taxation of U.S. domestic entities with income generated outside of U.S. borders. Students gain an understanding of the concept of nexus and its implications as it relates to an entity's potential tax reporting responsibilities and tax liability within the U.S. The course introduces students to the limitations on taxing authority as it relates to foreign entities as a consequence of protections afforded under U.S. constitutional and federal law, the implications of foreign tax treaties, and the strategies employed to avoid the risk of double taxation. The course emphasizes professional tax practice by employing a case study approach in which research of international tax matters is conducted, a written analysis of the findings is prepared and recommendations are presented.

Accounting Preparation Courses may be waived.

To waive an accounting preparation course, a student must successfully complete equivalent academic coursework at the undergraduate/graduate level at a U.S. university in the seven (7) years prior to MST matriculation, with a grade of “B” or better.

Students must provide official transcripts (with English translations, if applicable). All waiver requests are evaluated upon a student's acceptance into the MST Program.

All MST students must complete a minimum of 31 graduate credits (10 courses and SBS 700) in the Sawyer Business School.

Transfer Credit Policy

Any candidate seeking transfer credits, taken at the graduate level from an AACSB-accredited MBA, MSA, MSF, or MST program, will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. These credits may be considered for transfer if the credits do not apply to a previously completed degree.

Transfer credits must have an earned grade of "B" or better and be taken within five (5) years prior to entering the Suffolk Accelerated MST for Attorneys program. However, at the discretion of the program director, MST Core Courses may not be transferred if the subject material has changed significantly since completion. Elective or MST Core Courses may be considered for transfer.

Accelerated MST for CPAs Archive 2020-2021

Learn more about this accelerated degree

Learn more about this accelerated degree


Accelerated MST for CPAs Curriculum

11 Courses
31 Credits

Program Length:

  • Full-time in as few as 9 months
  • Part-time in as few as 21 months

Required Introductory Courses (1 credit)

Must be taken on campus in first semester of program.

Credits:

1.00

Description:

SBS-700 is the first required course in Suffolk's graduate programs. The course is based on the precepts of experiential learning. Based on the idea that people learn best by participating in meaningful activities this course provides you with the opportunity to identify your strengths, interests, values, vision, and capabilities, and identify next steps to leverage your program and realize your professional goals.

MST Core Courses (12 credits)


Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course focuses on the federal income taxation of individuals with some discussion of business entity taxation where the topics are applicable to both areas of tax law. The course explores the basic structure of individual income taxation, including gross income, exclusions, deductions, credits, the alternative minimum tax and the tax formula. The course also covers a basic introduction to the taxation of property transactions which is the focus of TAX 802. It emphasizes professional tax practice by incorporating research, professional writing and communication skills and the preparation of complex tax returns. The attainment of these essentials skills is facilitated by the routine exposure to the interpretation of statutes of the Internal Revenue Code, the review of Treasury Regulations, and the exploration of various court cases and rulings as applied to various fact patterns and case studies.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Title 26 of the United States Code, otherwise known as the Internal Revenue Code, is among the most complicated area of the law to research. Statutes, regulations, and agency issuances interact to create a complicated set of legal precedents. This course covers tax research methods, including identifying and defining tax questions, locating appropriate authority, and interpreting statutes, cases, and rulings. This course will also emphasize effective oral and written communication of research findings and recommendations, and proper administration, ethics, and responsibilities of tax practice.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course examines the concepts, principles and practices of taxation of corporations and their shareholders. The effects of taxation on corporate formation, capital structure, income tax calculation, corporate distributions to shareholders, stock redemptions, and partial and complete liquidation are covered. Tax planning and professional practice will be emphasized throughout the course via realistic tax cases and the completion of a comprehensive corporate tax return problem, including adjusting entries, work paper preparation and a tax accrual calculation. To enhance oral presentation skills students will analyze a realistic case and will present aspects of the case to the class.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course provides an in-depth study of pass-through entities inclusive of partnerships, Subchapter S corporations, limited liability companies and other tax issues related to closely held businesses. The course covers entity selection, entity formation, allocations of income, maintenance of capital accounts, taxation of operations, transactions, contributions, distributions, mixing bowl transactions, sales of ownership interests and other current issues. The course develops procedural skills by including the examination and application of relevant Code sections, regulations, and case law. Emphasis is placed on professional tax practice by incorporating a case study which promotes the development of decision making, tax planning, technical writing and communication skills to be employed in advising clients and business partners.

Capstone Course (3 credits)

Should be taken as late in the program as possible.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801, TAX-862, and TAX-863 (may be taken concurrently)

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course is the MST program's Capstone. The course focuses on the study of the U.S. tax compliance process, the required tax forms, and the use of primary tax software to prepare and file timely tax returns for corporate and pass-through entities. Students gain exposure to professional tax practice by employing the use of IRS form instructions, preparing complex tax forms, and completing other compliance tasks. Students also gain real world tax practice exposure by developing fundamental tax return review skills via the review of completed tax returns in which they are tasked with identifying errors. The course further emphasizes the importance of tax elections and tax planning strategies which have been introduced throughout the program's curriculum.

Elective Courses (15 credits)

Three of your electives must be in TAX. The remaining two electives could be in TAX and/or ACCT, or, with approval from the MST Program Director, other Sawyer Business School 700 or 800 level or higher courses.

Approved MST Electives:

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course builds upon the basic exposure to the taxation of property transactions in TAX 801. The course explores realization and recognition issues related to the disposition of property. It includes the coverage of basis, holding period, the characterization of gains and losses, passive activity and at-risk rules, amortization, depreciation and depreciation recapture, and other current tax topics related to property transactions. It emphasizes professional tax practice by incorporating the research of complex transactions, the preparation of tax journal entries, and professional writing and communication skills. Tax planning skills are learned via the exploration of transaction structuring techniques that minimize or defer tax exposure.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course focuses on understanding the difference between tax avoidance and tax evasion. Ethics and tax practitioner regulation will be presented and explored. Upon successful course completion, students should know and understand the laws governing practice before the IRS and how the IRS is organized and administrated. Tax deficiencies, assessments, claims for refunds, statutes of limitation and the appeal process will be explained and illustrated. Selected Code sections, regulations, Internal Revenue Manual (IRM) provisions and case law will be analyzed to understand tax practice. The Collection Process used by Revenue Officers will be described. The taxpayers' ability to make Installment Agreements or Offers in Compromise will be studied and presented. Indirect methods of accounting used by IRS Revenue Agents will be identified and examined. The course emphasizes tax practice by incorporating technical writing skills to be employed in responding to tax notice correspondence from taxing authorities. Additionally, tax practice is emphasized via the incorporation of a case study which requires an oral presentation of a written protest in defense of a taxpayer under audit.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 and TAX-862 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course studies the U.S. taxation of U.S. persons with non-U.S. income and or activities, or both. The course examines foreign tax credit principles and includes hands on application of the foreign tax credit limitation rules. The course covers individuals with earned foreign income, controlled foreign corporations, and provides an overview of earnings and profits, tested income, Subpart F income and investment in U.S. property. The curriculum of the course has been revised to incorporate the substantial additions and modifications to the U.S. international tax system resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act including the Global Intangible Low Tax-Taxed Income (GILTI), Base Erosion and Anti-Abuse Tax (BEAT) and the Foreign-Derived Intangible Income (FDII). The curriculum includes foreign currency issues, an overview of income tax treaties, other current international tax issues, and addresses compliance and disclosure requirements. The course incorporates tax practice by employing a case study that allows hands on application of the course curriculum as it relates to the calculation and reporting of non-U.S. transactions and the completion of relevant tax forms.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course strikes a balance between theoretical concepts and practical, real-world issues and covers the interrelationships between the federal and state taxation systems. The course also delves into the limitations upon the states' authority to tax which arise from U.S. Constitutional and federal law. The major types of taxes are covered which include sales and use taxes, corporate income, franchise taxes, and excise taxes. The course emphasizes a case review approach to the study of state and local taxation. Students will be exposed to current developments via the analysis of current tax cases from various states and local taxing authorities and recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions. The ability to practice in this area requires strong research skills as tax law routinely changes at the state and local level and changes in federal tax law can pose significant implications on the states' enforcement of its tax laws. In order to meet this expectation, the course focuses on professional tax practice skills development by incorporating research of current tax law and its implication as it relates to an assigned case study. The case study requires that students develop a tax planning strategy and present a recommendation based on their research findings and the overall business strategy of a given entity.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 and TAX-862 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course examines the IRC corporate provisions of both tax-free and taxable acquisitions and reorganizations in relation to various acquisitive and reorganizational transactions. Topics include acquisition methods such as asset purchase, stock purchase, and contribution and acquisition combinations. Topics also covered include the continuity of enterprise and interest issues in conjunction with the tax treatment accorded a transaction, carryovers, limitations, basis, and consolidated tax returns. The course incorporates professional tax practice via the implementation of a case study approach which requires the examination of Code provisions, case law and current tax practice in devising a tax strategy that identifies the most tax advantaged acquisition or reorganization based on an assigned fact pattern, and the completion of a consolidated tax return.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course primarily focuses on the taxation of U.S. citizens and residents as it relates to estates, trusts and gift taxes. Due to recent growth in the global mobility of persons, the course also introduces tax issues surrounding the estate and gift tax burden of non-U.S. persons who are domiciled in the U.S. or who have never been domiciled in the U.S. but must be considered in U.S. estate and gift tax planning. The tax implication related to various types of trusts and their use in estate planning is also analyzed. Topics covered include, income in respect to a decedent, generation-skipping transfer taxes, the implication of administrative powers, terminations, distributable net income and other recent developments. The course emphasizes tax professional tax practice by incorporating research based on the analysis of various practical tax scenarios and the preparation of estate, gift and trust tax returns.

Prerequisites:

Take TAX-801 or receive MST Program Director approval

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course covers the tax and regulatory issues related to investment companies. The course also introduces the regulation and taxation of securities, derivatives, commodities, options, and other types of hybrid financial products. Topics introduced may include the global intangible low-taxed income, financial transactions involving mergers and acquisitions, Base Erosion Anti-Abuse Tax and the implication for across border hybrid tax planning strategies resulting from changes in tax regulations, and other current topics.

Prerequisites:

Take TAX-801 and TAX-862, or receive MST Program Director approval.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Accounting for income taxes and their financial statement impact is one of the most complex aspects of US GAAP and one of the most risky areas prone to financial misstatements and audit issues. This course covers the principals of accounting for income taxes under ASC 740. Topics include calculation of current and deferred taxes, valuation allowance, uncertain tax positions (formerly FIN 48), and issues pertaining to multinational companies including permanently reinvested earnings. The course exposes students to professional tax practice by incorporating a case assignment which includes financial statements and requires the preparation of the adjusting journal entries, the preparation of the tax footnotes to include the deferred asset/liability, the calculation of the effective tax rate, and writing of the related disclosures.

Prerequisites:

Take TAX-801 or receive MST Program Director approval

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course focuses principally upon the interface of our federal tax system with the criminal justice system. The course covers select federal tax crimes found in United States Code (U.S.C.) Title 26, including tax evasion and false returns. Additionally, a selection of federal crimes found in Title 18 is examined including conspiracy and false statements. The course also covers the legal, evidentiary, and procedural challenges presented in the investigation and prosecution of criminal tax cases.

Prerequisites:

Take TAX-801 or recieve MST Program Director approval

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course is an overview course on international tax practice with emphasis on inbound, taxation of non-U.S. domestic entities with income generated within the U.S., and outbound taxation, taxation of U.S. domestic entities with income generated outside of U.S. borders. Students gain an understanding of the concept of nexus and its implications as it relates to an entity's potential tax reporting responsibilities and tax liability within the U.S. The course introduces students to the limitations on taxing authority as it relates to foreign entities as a consequence of protections afforded under U.S. constitutional and federal law, the implications of foreign tax treaties, and the strategies employed to avoid the risk of double taxation. The course emphasizes professional tax practice by employing a case study approach in which research of international tax matters is conducted, a written analysis of the findings is prepared and recommendations are presented.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

1.00- 3.00

Description:

Enables a student-initiated directed study project. The student and faculty advisor must concur on a written proposal and final report. The project must be approved by the dean of academic affairs prior to registration.

Prerequisites:

ACCT-801

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Builds on all previous courses in the ACCT 800-series. Focuses on accounting for business combinations/consolidations and partnerships.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Examines the concepts and practices of cost measurement: variable costing, cost-volume-profit analysis, goal setting and performance monitoring, standard costing, and variance analysis. Students learn how to prepare a financial plan for a business by constructing operating, working capital, and capital budgets. Students study and practice Excel skills and how those are used to build a financial plan, analyze the sensitivity of the financial plan to different changes, examine performance, and measure and control overhead costs. Students study data analytics techniques and perform analyses in support of decisions, such as pricing, setting product line and customer profitability policy, sourcing of products and services, and matching costing systems to strategy. For MSA, GCA, & MST students this is the first managerial accounting course you will take. For MBA students, this potential elective course builds upon concepts learned in MBA 640.

Prerequisites:

ACCT-800 or MBA-640

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Introduces the field of auditing, with a concentration in auditing historical financial statements in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards, and some exposure to auditing the internal control over financial reporting of large public companies. Covers the environment, standards, regulation, and law of auditing in the US, with some exposure to the international environment. Covers audit planning, risk, and materiality assessments, audit evidence, evaluation of internal control, documentation, and audit reports. Includes researching and resolving practice-oriented problems and practice in using computer-assisted audit techniques and electronic confirmations.

Prerequisites:

ACCT-800 or MBA-640

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Examines the pervasiveness and genres of fraud and explores the motivations, opportunities, and rationalizations that facilitate fraudulent behavior. Covers methods of detection, investigation, and prevention of financial statement frauds and other types of financial-related frauds.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course examines the techniques used by forensic accountants to conduct investigations of white collar crime. Students will learn what fraud is, how we prevent it, how we detect it, and how we document our findings. They will learn about the "elements of crime" that must be proven for a specific statute (e.g., Title 26 U.S.C. 7201 - Tax Evasion) to be successfully prosecuted. A case study will be utilized to demonstrate the investigative process from inception to conclusion. Through the case, students will learn how to: gather and document evidence; write memorandums, affidavits, and recommendation of prosecution reports; conduct investigative interviews by preparing an interview outline, building rapport, asking follow-up questions, and learning to detect deceit; and provide testimony in a mock trial to a (friendly) prosecutor and (aggressive) defense attorney.

Prerequisites:

ACCT-800 or MBA-640, and MBA-650 or program director approval

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course consists of two parts. The first part teaches students how to use Tableau to analyze large data sets and visualize data patterns to derive meaningful, actionable insights. We will utilize different data sets containing detailed information on sales, inventory, and other operational and financial metrics. This part will also introduce some basic tools used in accessing and compiling relevant big data from online resources such as the SEC's EDGAR website and Twitter. Students will be provided with necessary computer code and software to perform textual analysis for company documents and social media posts. The second part focuses on the analysis of financial statement data in an automated fashion. We will employ advanced tools in Excel along with the state-of-the-art data sources including Calcbench to perform financial data analytics and peer benchmarking. Our discussion on financial ratios and credit risk will have an analytical emphasis. This part will conclude with exercises on forecasting income statement data and valuing public companies.

Prerequisites:

ACCT-804 and ACCT-800 or MBA-640 or program director approval

Credits:

3

Description:

This case based course, teaches students how to better use information for improved decision making. Students will study how to identify the relevant information that is needed to make decisions. The decisions discussed will span a variety of business areas including accounting, finance, marketing and others. A special emphasis would be put on developing and strengthening the students' presentation skills in both face to face and online environments. Students will learn to speak influentially and effectively about numbers and communicate their conclusions and suggested decisions to different stakeholders.

Prerequisites:

Take MBA-650 and SBS-603 (previous); Take ACCT-804 and TAX-801 (previous or concurrent); be eligible to sit for the CPA exam

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This fast-paced intensive course will help prepare students for the REG section of the CPA exam. The course will cover topics that aren't typically covered in a personal federal taxation course, but that are covered on the REG section of the CPA exam. These include ethics, business law, government regulation of business and business structure, legal trusts and entities, taxation on property, and more. Students will be expected to sit for REG in early- to mid-January; therefore, it is required that students are eligible to sit before taking this course. Eligibility is determined by the Massachusetts Board of Public Accountancy. Class will be a mix of on campus and online sessions, with some potential flexibility in the timing of the online sessions, depending on student needs.

Prerequisites:

Take ACCT-800, ACCT-801, and ACCT-805; be eligible to sit for the CPA exam

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This fast-paced, intensive course will help prepare students for the FAR section of the CPA exam. The course will cover topics that aren't covered in a financial accounting series, but that are covered on the FAR section of the CPA exam. These include advanced accounting topics such as business combinations, derivatives and hedge accounting, and foreign currency transactions; state and local government concepts; not-for-profit accounting; and more. Students will be expected to sit for FAR in either late May or early July; therefore, it is required that students are eligible to sit before taking this course. Eligibility is determined by the Massachusetts Board of Public Accountancy. Class will be a mix of on campus and online sessions, with some potential flexibility in the timing of the online sessions, depending on student needs.

Prerequisites:

ACCT-800 or MBA-640

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Describes various transaction processing cycles and their use in the structured analysis and design of accounting information systems. Students gain an understanding of Enterprise Resource Planning softwares, Quickbooks, database design, XBRL, implementations of internal controls, and privacy and data security issues.

Prerequisites:

MBA-640 or ACCT-800

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Covers unique aspects of financial reporting in not-for-profit organizations and governmental units. Topics include fund accounting, encumbrance accounting, GASB pronouncements, cost accounting, and budgetary control for government and its agencies, healthcare, educational, religious and other not-for-profit organizations. Students learn how to apply the cost benefit analysis in the resources allocation process, program planning, budgeting and reporting systems.

Prerequisites:

ACCT-800 or MBA-640

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Imparts an understanding of differences among nations in approaches to disclosure and choices of accounting measurement systems. Students learn about the influence of the IASB and IOSCO on multinational accounting harmonization, contrasting historical cost/purchasing power accounting with other accounting approaches, including current value accounting. Students will assess how differences in industrial and ownership structures affect accounting performance measurement. Students will also analyze risk management, accounting for derivative contracts, consolidation accounting, budgetary control, and transfer pricing in a multinational company.

Prerequisites:

SBS-700. International students must complete 2 academic semesters before approved. Approval of Program Director/Course Coordinator and SBS Dean of Graduate Programs required.

Credits:

0.00

Description:

This internship course is for students who are working in an approved graduate level internship in a company, non-profit organization, or public agency. The internship is described in a written proposal agreed upon by the company sponsor and intern. The internship must be approved by the International Student Services Office (international students only), Program Director/Course Coordinator and SBS Dean of Graduate Programs. The internship is intended for international students who wish to participate in a practical, degree related experience. This course does not count toward a degree. International students must receive Curricular Practical Training (CPT) approval with the International Student Services Office PRIOR to beginning an internship.

 

MST Concentration

The MS in Taxation Program requires five (5) electives as a part of the degree program. Students may declare a concentration in Corporate Taxation.  If a concentration is declared, all electives must be TAX from the list below.  The schedule of when courses within a concentration are offered vary by semester.

Corporate Taxation Concentration

Dive into the intricacies of corporate tax and prepare to work in a multinational, multi-state or small domestic corporate firm.

Required Courses (6 Credits)

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course builds upon the basic exposure to the taxation of property transactions in TAX 801. The course explores realization and recognition issues related to the disposition of property. It includes the coverage of basis, holding period, the characterization of gains and losses, passive activity and at-risk rules, amortization, depreciation and depreciation recapture, and other current tax topics related to property transactions. It emphasizes professional tax practice by incorporating the research of complex transactions, the preparation of tax journal entries, and professional writing and communication skills. Tax planning skills are learned via the exploration of transaction structuring techniques that minimize or defer tax exposure.

Prerequisites:

Take TAX-801 and TAX-862, or receive MST Program Director approval.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Accounting for income taxes and their financial statement impact is one of the most complex aspects of US GAAP and one of the most risky areas prone to financial misstatements and audit issues. This course covers the principals of accounting for income taxes under ASC 740. Topics include calculation of current and deferred taxes, valuation allowance, uncertain tax positions (formerly FIN 48), and issues pertaining to multinational companies including permanently reinvested earnings. The course exposes students to professional tax practice by incorporating a case assignment which includes financial statements and requires the preparation of the adjusting journal entries, the preparation of the tax footnotes to include the deferred asset/liability, the calculation of the effective tax rate, and writing of the related disclosures.

Choose 3 from the following list (9 credits)

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 and TAX-862 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course studies the U.S. taxation of U.S. persons with non-U.S. income and or activities, or both. The course examines foreign tax credit principles and includes hands on application of the foreign tax credit limitation rules. The course covers individuals with earned foreign income, controlled foreign corporations, and provides an overview of earnings and profits, tested income, Subpart F income and investment in U.S. property. The curriculum of the course has been revised to incorporate the substantial additions and modifications to the U.S. international tax system resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act including the Global Intangible Low Tax-Taxed Income (GILTI), Base Erosion and Anti-Abuse Tax (BEAT) and the Foreign-Derived Intangible Income (FDII). The curriculum includes foreign currency issues, an overview of income tax treaties, other current international tax issues, and addresses compliance and disclosure requirements. The course incorporates tax practice by employing a case study that allows hands on application of the course curriculum as it relates to the calculation and reporting of non-U.S. transactions and the completion of relevant tax forms.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course strikes a balance between theoretical concepts and practical, real-world issues and covers the interrelationships between the federal and state taxation systems. The course also delves into the limitations upon the states' authority to tax which arise from U.S. Constitutional and federal law. The major types of taxes are covered which include sales and use taxes, corporate income, franchise taxes, and excise taxes. The course emphasizes a case review approach to the study of state and local taxation. Students will be exposed to current developments via the analysis of current tax cases from various states and local taxing authorities and recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions. The ability to practice in this area requires strong research skills as tax law routinely changes at the state and local level and changes in federal tax law can pose significant implications on the states' enforcement of its tax laws. In order to meet this expectation, the course focuses on professional tax practice skills development by incorporating research of current tax law and its implication as it relates to an assigned case study. The case study requires that students develop a tax planning strategy and present a recommendation based on their research findings and the overall business strategy of a given entity.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 and TAX-862 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course examines the IRC corporate provisions of both tax-free and taxable acquisitions and reorganizations in relation to various acquisitive and reorganizational transactions. Topics include acquisition methods such as asset purchase, stock purchase, and contribution and acquisition combinations. Topics also covered include the continuity of enterprise and interest issues in conjunction with the tax treatment accorded a transaction, carryovers, limitations, basis, and consolidated tax returns. The course incorporates professional tax practice via the implementation of a case study approach which requires the examination of Code provisions, case law and current tax practice in devising a tax strategy that identifies the most tax advantaged acquisition or reorganization based on an assigned fact pattern, and the completion of a consolidated tax return.

Prerequisites:

Take TAX-801 or receive MST Program Director approval

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course covers the tax and regulatory issues related to investment companies. The course also introduces the regulation and taxation of securities, derivatives, commodities, options, and other types of hybrid financial products. Topics introduced may include the global intangible low-taxed income, financial transactions involving mergers and acquisitions, Base Erosion Anti-Abuse Tax and the implication for across border hybrid tax planning strategies resulting from changes in tax regulations, and other current topics.

Prerequisites:

Take TAX-801 or recieve MST Program Director approval

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course is an overview course on international tax practice with emphasis on inbound, taxation of non-U.S. domestic entities with income generated within the U.S., and outbound taxation, taxation of U.S. domestic entities with income generated outside of U.S. borders. Students gain an understanding of the concept of nexus and its implications as it relates to an entity's potential tax reporting responsibilities and tax liability within the U.S. The course introduces students to the limitations on taxing authority as it relates to foreign entities as a consequence of protections afforded under U.S. constitutional and federal law, the implications of foreign tax treaties, and the strategies employed to avoid the risk of double taxation. The course emphasizes professional tax practice by employing a case study approach in which research of international tax matters is conducted, a written analysis of the findings is prepared and recommendations are presented.

All Accelerated MST for CPAs students must complete a minimum of 31 graduate credits (10 courses and SBS-700) in the Sawyer Business School.

Graduate Certificate in Taxation Archive 2020-2021

Learn more about this certificate
 

Graduate Certificate in Taxation Curriculum

5 Courses
15 Credits

Program Length:
Part-time in as few as 9 months


Required Courses (15 credits)


Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course focuses on the federal income taxation of individuals with some discussion of business entity taxation where the topics are applicable to both areas of tax law. The course explores the basic structure of individual income taxation, including gross income, exclusions, deductions, credits, the alternative minimum tax and the tax formula. The course also covers a basic introduction to the taxation of property transactions which is the focus of TAX 802. It emphasizes professional tax practice by incorporating research, professional writing and communication skills and the preparation of complex tax returns. The attainment of these essentials skills is facilitated by the routine exposure to the interpretation of statutes of the Internal Revenue Code, the review of Treasury Regulations, and the exploration of various court cases and rulings as applied to various fact patterns and case studies.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Title 26 of the United States Code, otherwise known as the Internal Revenue Code, is among the most complicated area of the law to research. Statutes, regulations, and agency issuances interact to create a complicated set of legal precedents. This course covers tax research methods, including identifying and defining tax questions, locating appropriate authority, and interpreting statutes, cases, and rulings. This course will also emphasize effective oral and written communication of research findings and recommendations, and proper administration, ethics, and responsibilities of tax practice.

 

Elective Courses (9 credits)

Work with MST Program Director when choosing courses other than TAX.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course builds upon the basic exposure to the taxation of property transactions in TAX 801. The course explores realization and recognition issues related to the disposition of property. It includes the coverage of basis, holding period, the characterization of gains and losses, passive activity and at-risk rules, amortization, depreciation and depreciation recapture, and other current tax topics related to property transactions. It emphasizes professional tax practice by incorporating the research of complex transactions, the preparation of tax journal entries, and professional writing and communication skills. Tax planning skills are learned via the exploration of transaction structuring techniques that minimize or defer tax exposure.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course focuses on understanding the difference between tax avoidance and tax evasion. Ethics and tax practitioner regulation will be presented and explored. Upon successful course completion, students should know and understand the laws governing practice before the IRS and how the IRS is organized and administrated. Tax deficiencies, assessments, claims for refunds, statutes of limitation and the appeal process will be explained and illustrated. Selected Code sections, regulations, Internal Revenue Manual (IRM) provisions and case law will be analyzed to understand tax practice. The Collection Process used by Revenue Officers will be described. The taxpayers' ability to make Installment Agreements or Offers in Compromise will be studied and presented. Indirect methods of accounting used by IRS Revenue Agents will be identified and examined. The course emphasizes tax practice by incorporating technical writing skills to be employed in responding to tax notice correspondence from taxing authorities. Additionally, tax practice is emphasized via the incorporation of a case study which requires an oral presentation of a written protest in defense of a taxpayer under audit.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 and TAX-862 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course studies the U.S. taxation of U.S. persons with non-U.S. income and or activities, or both. The course examines foreign tax credit principles and includes hands on application of the foreign tax credit limitation rules. The course covers individuals with earned foreign income, controlled foreign corporations, and provides an overview of earnings and profits, tested income, Subpart F income and investment in U.S. property. The curriculum of the course has been revised to incorporate the substantial additions and modifications to the U.S. international tax system resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act including the Global Intangible Low Tax-Taxed Income (GILTI), Base Erosion and Anti-Abuse Tax (BEAT) and the Foreign-Derived Intangible Income (FDII). The curriculum includes foreign currency issues, an overview of income tax treaties, other current international tax issues, and addresses compliance and disclosure requirements. The course incorporates tax practice by employing a case study that allows hands on application of the course curriculum as it relates to the calculation and reporting of non-U.S. transactions and the completion of relevant tax forms.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course strikes a balance between theoretical concepts and practical, real-world issues and covers the interrelationships between the federal and state taxation systems. The course also delves into the limitations upon the states' authority to tax which arise from U.S. Constitutional and federal law. The major types of taxes are covered which include sales and use taxes, corporate income, franchise taxes, and excise taxes. The course emphasizes a case review approach to the study of state and local taxation. Students will be exposed to current developments via the analysis of current tax cases from various states and local taxing authorities and recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions. The ability to practice in this area requires strong research skills as tax law routinely changes at the state and local level and changes in federal tax law can pose significant implications on the states' enforcement of its tax laws. In order to meet this expectation, the course focuses on professional tax practice skills development by incorporating research of current tax law and its implication as it relates to an assigned case study. The case study requires that students develop a tax planning strategy and present a recommendation based on their research findings and the overall business strategy of a given entity.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 and TAX-862 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course examines the IRC corporate provisions of both tax-free and taxable acquisitions and reorganizations in relation to various acquisitive and reorganizational transactions. Topics include acquisition methods such as asset purchase, stock purchase, and contribution and acquisition combinations. Topics also covered include the continuity of enterprise and interest issues in conjunction with the tax treatment accorded a transaction, carryovers, limitations, basis, and consolidated tax returns. The course incorporates professional tax practice via the implementation of a case study approach which requires the examination of Code provisions, case law and current tax practice in devising a tax strategy that identifies the most tax advantaged acquisition or reorganization based on an assigned fact pattern, and the completion of a consolidated tax return.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course primarily focuses on the taxation of U.S. citizens and residents as it relates to estates, trusts and gift taxes. Due to recent growth in the global mobility of persons, the course also introduces tax issues surrounding the estate and gift tax burden of non-U.S. persons who are domiciled in the U.S. or who have never been domiciled in the U.S. but must be considered in U.S. estate and gift tax planning. The tax implication related to various types of trusts and their use in estate planning is also analyzed. Topics covered include, income in respect to a decedent, generation-skipping transfer taxes, the implication of administrative powers, terminations, distributable net income and other recent developments. The course emphasizes tax professional tax practice by incorporating research based on the analysis of various practical tax scenarios and the preparation of estate, gift and trust tax returns.

Prerequisites:

Take TAX-801 or receive MST Program Director approval

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course covers the tax and regulatory issues related to investment companies. The course also introduces the regulation and taxation of securities, derivatives, commodities, options, and other types of hybrid financial products. Topics introduced may include the global intangible low-taxed income, financial transactions involving mergers and acquisitions, Base Erosion Anti-Abuse Tax and the implication for across border hybrid tax planning strategies resulting from changes in tax regulations, and other current topics.

Prerequisites:

Take TAX-801 and TAX-862, or receive MST Program Director approval.

Credits:

3.00

Description:

Accounting for income taxes and their financial statement impact is one of the most complex aspects of US GAAP and one of the most risky areas prone to financial misstatements and audit issues. This course covers the principals of accounting for income taxes under ASC 740. Topics include calculation of current and deferred taxes, valuation allowance, uncertain tax positions (formerly FIN 48), and issues pertaining to multinational companies including permanently reinvested earnings. The course exposes students to professional tax practice by incorporating a case assignment which includes financial statements and requires the preparation of the adjusting journal entries, the preparation of the tax footnotes to include the deferred asset/liability, the calculation of the effective tax rate, and writing of the related disclosures.

Prerequisites:

Take TAX-801 or receive MST Program Director approval

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course focuses principally upon the interface of our federal tax system with the criminal justice system. The course covers select federal tax crimes found in United States Code (U.S.C.) Title 26, including tax evasion and false returns. Additionally, a selection of federal crimes found in Title 18 is examined including conspiracy and false statements. The course also covers the legal, evidentiary, and procedural challenges presented in the investigation and prosecution of criminal tax cases.

Prerequisites:

Take TAX-801 or recieve MST Program Director approval

Credits:

3.00

Description:

This course is an overview course on international tax practice with emphasis on inbound, taxation of non-U.S. domestic entities with income generated within the U.S., and outbound taxation, taxation of U.S. domestic entities with income generated outside of U.S. borders. Students gain an understanding of the concept of nexus and its implications as it relates to an entity's potential tax reporting responsibilities and tax liability within the U.S. The course introduces students to the limitations on taxing authority as it relates to foreign entities as a consequence of protections afforded under U.S. constitutional and federal law, the implications of foreign tax treaties, and the strategies employed to avoid the risk of double taxation. The course emphasizes professional tax practice by employing a case study approach in which research of international tax matters is conducted, a written analysis of the findings is prepared and recommendations are presented.

Prerequisites:

TAX-801 or approval of the MST Director

Credits:

1.00- 3.00

Description:

Enables a student-initiated directed study project. The student and faculty advisor must concur on a written proposal and final report. The project must be approved by the dean of academic affairs prior to registration.

Degree Progression Policy

Candidates who apply within one year of completing their graduate certificate will have applicable courses applied to a Sawyer Business School (SBS) graduate degree program in the same discipline as the certificate as long as a grade of "B" or better was earned in that course.

Candidates who apply to a degree program different from their certificate program’s discipline area or beyond one year, will have coursework evaluated on a case by case basis for relevancy, current degree requirements and current Sawyer Business School waiver and transfer policies.

Dual Degree with MBA Archive 2020-2021

Learn more about this dual degree

The MST is available as a Dual Degree with the MBA.

View the MBA/MST Dual Degree Curriculum.

Dual Degree with MSA Archive 2020-2021

Learn more about this dual degree

The MST is available as a Dual Degree with the Master of Science in Accounting.

View the MSA/MST Dual Degree Curriculum.