Most Affordable Online Master's In Taxation Degrees

Updated May 4, 2023

check mark Reviewed by

Our Integrity Network

CollegeChoice.net is committed to delivering content that is objective and actionable. To that end, we have built a network of industry professionals across higher education to review our content and ensure we are providing the most helpful information to our readers.

Drawing on their firsthand industry expertise, our Integrity Network members serve as an additional step in our editing process, helping us confirm our content is accurate and up to date. These contributors:

  • Suggest changes to inaccurate or misleading information.
  • Provide specific, corrective feedback.
  • Identify critical information that writers may have missed.

Integrity Network members typically work full time in their industry profession and review content for CollegeChoice.net as a side project. All Integrity Network members are paid members of the Red Ventures Education Integrity Network.

Explore our full list of Integrity Network members.

A ranking of the most affordable online master's in taxation degrees. Programs ranked by affordability, flexibility, and academic quality.

CollegeChoice.net is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Are you ready to discover your college program?

Financial adviser with her client Credit: Carlina Teteris | Moment | Getty Images

Master's in Taxation Degree Programs Online

A master's degree in taxation prepares students for careers as tax managers, tax accountants, and certified public accountants (CPAs). Specialized taxation coursework covers effective tax strategies.

Students pursuing an online master's degree in taxation benefit from flexibility. Learners can complete coursework from anywhere. Online enrollees can also choose the most affordable program without relocating.

Our list ranks the most affordable online master's in taxation programs. Read on to learn about costs, courses, and potential careers for taxation majors.

View Our Rankings List Here

Frequently Asked Questions About Taxation Degrees

What can I do with a master's in taxation?

Graduates can pursue a variety of careers in taxation or financial services. Many careers pay above-average salaries.

How long does it take to get a master's in taxation?

Full-time learners can earn a master's degree in two years. Students can explore accelerated programs to graduate sooner.

What's the difference between taxation and accounting?

Taxation is a subfield within accounting. It refers to the laws and regulations related to local, state, or federal taxes. Accounting focuses on transactions.

Explore Programs From Boston University

Why Get a Master's Degree in Taxation?

Earning a master's in taxation can help professionals advance their careers and boost their salaries. Master's programs provide advanced training in complex areas. Degree-seekers study corporate tax regulations, international tax laws, and property taxation rules.

Pursuing an online master's degree in taxation offers many benefits. Online programs often run asynchronously, allowing enrollees to complete coursework around other responsibilities. In addition, accountants can earn the 30 credits required for a CPA license by completing a master's in taxation.

How Much Does a Taxation Degree Cost?

The cost of master's in taxation programs varies by school. According to EducationData.org, master's degrees cost an average of $66,340. Students can save money by enrolling in public, in-state schools. Out-of-state and private universities charge higher tuition rates.

Many institutions offer tuition discounts for fully online students. Out-of-state learners may qualify for in-state tuition if they complete their degree online. Master's students can reduce their out-of-pocket expenses by applying for scholarships and grants.

Additional Online Student Fees

Online learners do not pay for campus housing or meal plans. However, they should budget for other expenses such as books and class materials. Some online universities charge technology or graduation fees. Students pursuing an online master's degree in taxation may need to buy a new laptop or upgrade their internet.

Some online programs include in-person requirements. Campus visits may add travel and lodging costs. Learners can check with their prospective schools on total degree costs.

How Much Do Taxation Majors Make?

Professionals with a master's in taxation earn an average of $90,000 per year, according to Nov. 2021 PayScale data. Taxation professionals can earn more as they gain experience. They can also boost their salary by relocating or changing employers.

Courses in a Master's in Taxation Program

Learners pursuing a master's degree in taxation receive advanced training in complex taxation areas. Students complete core and elective courses. Some programs provide specialization options. The curriculum may include internships or master's projects.

See below for common courses in master's in taxation programs. Keep in mind that courses and descriptions vary by school.

  • Corporate Taxation

    Corporations can face complicated tax situations. This course provides advanced training in corporate tax laws and regulations. Learners study corporate tax deductions and regulations on shareholder distributions. Students also explore the tax implications of acquisitions or divisions. Coursework prepares graduates to work as tax managers in corporate settings.
  • Taxation and Property

    Property transactions can trigger many different taxation scenarios. Students examine the tax implications of acquiring, owning, and selling property. Coursework covers property tax and installment reporting for property sales. The class prepares graduates for roles in real estate taxation.
  • Income Tax Accounting

    Enrollees explore advanced tax planning techniques. Coursework covers topics like deferred taxation strategies, effective tax rates, and estimated tax filings. Learners also examine reporting requirements, international tax regulations, and tax allocations. The course covers tax preparers' ethical responsibilities.

Featured Online Programs

Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.

Career and Salary Outlook for Taxation Majors

An online master's degree in taxation prepares graduates for many careers. With 30 post-bachelor's credits, professionals can become CPAs. These professionals specialize in taxation-related issues and work for companies and individuals. A master's degree can also lead to opportunities in finance.

See below for potential career paths for master's degree holders.

  • Financial Analysts

    These professionals evaluate investments and financial documents to recommend strategies to their clients. They assess investment performance, research financial trends, and manage portfolios. Financial analysts also determine companies' values and recommend changes to increase profits. Analysts with taxation backgrounds can work as tax analysts.
  • Financial Managers

    These managers oversee analysts and implement plans to improve their organization's financial health. They recommend investment strategies, monitor financial transactions, and create forecast reports. Financial managers who specialize in taxation, such as tax managers, recommend tax strategies to corporations. They help organizations manage transactions that trigger taxes. Financial managers also help companies maximize their deductions to minimize their taxes.
  • Accountants and Auditors

    These professionals create financial documents, including tax returns. They evaluate financial records to identify and correct errors. Accountants recommend taxation strategies to clients. Professionals may specialize in internal auditing or forensic accounting. With a master's degree, accountants can earn their CPA license.
Career Salary Outlook
CareerMedian Annual SalaryProjected Growth Rate (2020-2030)
Financial Analysts$83,6606%
Financial Managers$134,18017%
Accountants and Auditors$73,5607%

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Most Affordable Online Master's in Taxation Degrees

See our rankings methodology page.

#1 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Taxation Degrees

Florida Atlantic University

  • Boca Raton, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

At Florida Atlantic University, students receive advanced preparation in degrees designed for busy learners. The executive master of taxation program is among the 13 online master's degrees delivered from the Boca Raton, Florida, campus. This adaptable program makes graduate education accessible to caretakers, full-time workers, and anyone unable to relocate for school.

Applicants should review the program page for more admissions information. Prospective enrollees usually need a bachelor’s. The program offers advanced training for high-level accounting careers and other opportunities a bachelor’s alone could not provide. A doctorate or another terminal degree is the next step for some master's graduates.

Tuition varies by learners' residency status. Florida residents pay an average of $5,467 annually, while out-of-state enrollees pay $16,695. Learners can use resources at the financial aid department to find out if they qualify for grants and scholarships. Many students may also want to consider loans as an option to afford tuition.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,522
Out-of-state
$14,374
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,467
Out-of-state
$16,695
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
63%
Students Enrolled
30,061
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Taxation Degrees

University of Southern California

  • Los Angeles, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Los Angeles-based University of Southern California administers a comprehensive catalog of degrees. Students interested in graduate programs they can pursue from a distance can choose from 55 master's programs available online. The master of business taxation for working professionals is ideal for learners interested in the tax field.

Online education's flexibility and adaptability attract many graduate students to this program. Caretakers, workers, and other busy enrollees may find it easy to work this master’s degree into their schedules. Deep experience providing rigorous degrees that emphasize both quality and flexible learning is a hallmark of this institution.

The admissions rate for this school is 11% on average per year, but expect some variations across programs. In order to receive consideration, master's degree-seekers need a bachelor's degree unless otherwise stated. Consult with the program to learn about application requirements and deadlines.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$57,256
Out-of-state
$57,256
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$46,272
Out-of-state
$46,272
Retention Rate
96%
Admission Rate
11%
Students Enrolled
48,321
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
17% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#3 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Taxation Degrees

University of Denver

  • Denver, CO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

University of Denver has a reputation for developing rigorous online graduate programs. The master in taxation program is an excellent choice for bachelor's degree-holders who want to advance their financial background. Enrollees can complete the graduate curriculum remotely.

The 12-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio is a big draw for students who want more individualized attention and faculty mentorship opportunities. Learners complete a strong taxation curriculum delivered by faculty with industry expertise. The training learners receive is an important step for career advancement or a doctoral degree in this field and related ones.

The school charges all enrollees $51,336 per year in tuition. The financial aid department can explore aid with degree-seekers. Funding options may include scholarships and grants. Learners can also apply for financial aid, which about 34% of the school’s enrollees use to pay for their degree.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$51,336
Out-of-state
$51,336
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$51,336
Out-of-state
$51,336
Retention Rate
85%
Admission Rate
59%
Students Enrolled
12,931
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
28% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#4 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Taxation Degrees

University of Cincinnati-Main Campus

  • Cincinnati, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

University of Cincinnati's academic catalog includes rigorous graduate education available online. The master's in taxation is an excellent choice for degree-holders with a bachelor’s in taxation who want to advance their careers in this field. The program emphasizes rigorous academics and a flexible learning format.

Enrollees benefit from a 17-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio in their classes. The biggest attraction is the educational attainment acquired when learners complete a rigorous curriculum delivered by experts. Obtaining this degree is of great benefit to those who want to advance their careers and pursue higher-paying positions.

Ohio residents pay a tuition of $12,790 annually. Out-of-state learners pay $24,532. Many degree-seekers work with the financial aid department to identify aid such as scholarships and grants. At this institution, about 45% of enrollees use student loans to finance all or part of their degree.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,476
Out-of-state
$24,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,790
Out-of-state
$24,532
Retention Rate
88%
Admission Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
39,263
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#5 Most Affordable Online Master’s In Taxation Degrees

Villanova University

  • Villanova, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Pennsylvania-based Villanova University is a private college with graduate programs in different fields. The institution is a leader in online graduate education with 17 master's degrees available remotely. The master of taxation is ideal for learners interested in the accounting field.

Graduate students can use online education's flexibility and adaptability to accomplish longstanding goals. Real-time interaction is often not required, and enrollees can complete coursework at their own pace within a given timeframe. Candidates gain invaluable knowledge that employers value or they may use to enter a doctoral program.

Though this number can vary between programs, applicants get admitted at a rate of 28% each year. Master's degree-seekers usually need a bachelor's degree in the same or a similar field in order to receive consideration. Contact the school to see how to apply to this program and submit the required documents.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,550
Out-of-state
$54,550
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$20,506
Out-of-state
$20,506
Retention Rate
96%
Admission Rate
28%
Students Enrolled
10,848
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
23% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Online College Resources

Helping you prepare and gain the most out of your educational experience.

Discover a program that is right for you.

Search schools to find the program that is right for you.