Degree Overview: Master’s Degree Programs in International Taxation
Majors Overview June 9, 2015This article talks about master’s degree programs in international taxation and their education requirements, coursework, career choices, job and wage outlook, and continuing education choices.
Master’s Programs in International Taxation
A Master of Taxation degree is devised to make enrolled students experts in international taxation. Students are ready for advanced mastery of tax structures in the U.S. as well as in other countries. Program graduates may become tax specialists, performing work for multinational, international, and national government organizations or businesses. Coursework in law and business is usually combined and are available through both departments.
There is extensive training in tax policies and laws. Additionally, students study contemporary theories of taxation and modes of taxation used in other countries. Schools offer Master of Taxation programs in both distance-learning and on-campus formats.
Education Requirements
Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a bachelor’s degree, though a specific undergraduate field of study may not always be a requirement. Prior work experience in the tax field is possessed by many incoming students, and some programs give preference to students with proven professional interest in the field, though this is usually not a requirement for admission.
Coursework
Coursework includes various types of taxation, including domestic and international regulations. Core coursework commonly covers topic areas such as:
•Contemporary tax theory
•Tax research
•Real estate taxation
•Corporate taxation
•International taxation
•Income tax law
•Estate tax law
Career Choices
Program graduates can choose from various career options. They may find employment with private corporations, private clients, or government agencies in roles such as:
•International tax law consultant
•Accountant
•Tax preparer
•Tax law specialist
Job and Wage Outlook
Over the 2012 – 2022 decade, average job growth rate of thirteen percent have been predicted for accountants and auditors (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). In May 2012, these professionals brought in an average annual wage of $63,550 (BLS).
Continuing Education Choices
Program graduates involved in filing reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) may seek professional certification as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Various other certifications are available in the field. The Institute of Management Accountants and the Institute of Internal Auditors offer the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) and Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) credentials, respectively. While not mandatory, these certifications are valued by employers.
