Programs Ranked
27
Schools
25
Degree Levels
3
Fully Online Programs
19
Checked on Schools' Own Pages
October 15, 2026
How We Score the Programs on This List
Eight factors, published weights, the same for every program. Read the Methodology
Forensic Training · 50%
- Forensic Focus20%
- Investigative Skill Coverage10%
- Hands-On Casework10%
- Credential Pathway10%
Value and Outcomes · 50%
- Cost15%
- Graduate Earnings15%
- Completion10%
- Program Reputation10%
If the CFE credential is your goal, a degree can build most of what you need. Every one of these forensic accounting programs for CFE exam prep states that it prepares you for the exam or lines up with it. CFE eligibility, the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) path and accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) all shape which program fits you.
Top Picks
The Top Program at Each Degree Level
The top-scoring forensic accounting programs at each degree level on this list.
- Top Master's100.0 out of 100
West Virginia University
Master of Science in Forensic and Fraud Examination
West Virginia · M.S.
West Virginia University's M.S. Review - Top Bachelor's89.4 out of 100
Franklin University
Bachelor of Science in Forensic Accounting
Ohio · B.S.
Franklin University's B.S. Review - Top Graduate Certificate77.1 out of 100
Seton Hill University
Forensic and Fraud Examination Graduate Certificate
Pennsylvania · Graduate Certificate
Seton Hill University's Graduate Certificate Review
The cards and table below use short forms for the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) and the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).
No programs on this list match all of those.
Rank #1 Master's
West Virginia University
The curriculum builds toward two exams for you, the CFE and the Certified Valuation Analyst. Read our WVU M.S. Forensic and Fraud Examination review
- Credential 10
- Skills 9.3
- Reputation 8.3
Score 100.0
Rank #2 Master's
Murray State University
According to the school, this program readies you to take the CFE exam. Read our Murray State University MPA Forensic Accounting review
- Cost 10
- Credential 10
- Skills 7.9
Score 97.9
Rank #3 Master's
Murray State University
Murray State belongs to the Anti-Fraud Education Partnership of the group that issues the CFE credential, so students who decide to sit for the exam are entitled to a low-cost student certification package. Read our Murray State University MBA Forensic Accounting review
- Credential 10
- Skills 8.2
- Completion 7.6
Score 97.0
Rank #4 Master's
Utica University
Required work in Financial Investigations and in Fraud Management and Technology builds the base, and you can add electives such as Legal Concepts of Criminal Fraud, Advanced Fraud Analysis and Management of Fraud Prevention and Detection. Read our Utica University M.S. Forensic Accounting review
- Pay 9.7
- Completion 9.3
- Credential 8
Score 96.8
Rank #5 Master's
Florida Atlantic University
Florida Atlantic is a member of the fraud examiners' association's Anti-Fraud Education Partnership, a useful tie if you are working toward the Certified Fraud Examiner credential. Read our Florida Atlantic University MAcc Forensic Accounting review
- Credential 10
- Skills 9
- Reputation 7.2
Score 96.7
Rank #6 Master's
Saint Xavier University
The curriculum is built to give you the education that Certified Fraud Examiner certification calls for, and the program is an educational partner with the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners. Read our Saint Xavier University MBA Fraud Examination review
- Credential 10
- Completion 8.7
- Skills 7.8
Score 90.8
Rank #7 Master's
York College of Pennsylvania
York College of Pennsylvania takes part in the Anti-Fraud Education Partnership run with the Certified Fraud Examiners organization, so real-world anti-fraud case studies and industry materials run through your courses. Read our York College MAcc Fraud and Forensics review
- Credential 8
- Casework 7.4
- Skills 6.8
Score 86.5
Rank #8 Master's
Carlow University
Carlow has an educational partnership with the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners, and the program says you will be prepared to sit for the CFE exam. Read our Carlow University M.S. Fraud and Forensics review
- Credential 8
- Focus 7.3
- Skills 7
Score 81.5
Rank #9 Master's
SUNY Old Westbury
The CFE Manual from the association behind the credential is woven into the curriculum, giving you a comprehensive overview of the material covered on the CFE exam. Read our SUNY Old Westbury M.S. Forensic Accounting review
- Credential 10
- Skills 7.5
- Focus 7.2
Score 80.6
Rank #10 Master's
Seton Hill University
Fraud Prevention and Deterrence covers occupational fraud, fraud risk assessment and the Code of Professional Ethics for fraud examiners, so the fraud examiner's own professional standards are part of your coursework. Read our Seton Hill University MBA Forensic Accounting review
- Credential 8
- Skills 7.3
- Completion 6.5
Score 68.5
Rank #11 Master's
Roosevelt University
The catalog names the standard curriculum as the recommended path to Certified Fraud Examiner certification, so the courses you already take are your preparation. Read our Roosevelt University M.S. Accounting Forensics review
- Credential 8
- Pay 6.8
- Skills 6.4
Score 67.7
Rank #12 Master's
Tiffin University
Your fraud courses focus on material covered on the Certified Fraud Examiner exam: Fraud Prevention and Deterrence, Fraud Investigations, Fraud Legal Environment, and Financial Transactions and Fraud Schemes. Read our Tiffin University MBA Fraud Examination review
- Credential 8
- Skills 5
- Cost 4.7
Score 65.6
Rank #13 Master's
University of Scranton
The specialization helps you prepare for the CFE exam and CPA licensure, so one set of courses serves two credentials. Read our University of Scranton MAcc Forensic Accounting review
- Credential 10
- Reputation 8
- Pay 4.9
Score 56.4
Rank #1 Bachelor's
Franklin University
This degree builds the foundation for seeking Certified Fraud Examiner, Certified Public Accountant or Certified Internal Auditor certification. Read our Franklin University B.S. Forensic Accounting review
- Cost 9.1
- Credential 8
- Reputation 7.5
Score 89.4
Rank #2 Bachelor's
Loyola University Maryland
Your instructors include professionals who hold the CFE, alongside CPAs and expert witnesses. Read our Loyola University Maryland BBA Forensic Accounting review
- Pay 10
- Credential 10
- Completion 9.8
Score 87.9
Rank #3 Bachelor's
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott
You will find course topics that follow the areas of the certification behind the CFE: financial transactions and fraud schemes, fraud prevention and deterrence, investigation, and law. Read our Embry-Riddle Prescott B.S. Forensic Accounting review
- Pay 9.2
- Credential 8
- Reputation 8
Score 79.1
Rank #4 Bachelor's
Southern New Hampshire University
The 12-credit concentration brings together classic fraud types, financial statement fraud, interview strategies with legal aspects, and investigating with computers, the building blocks of a fraud examiner's work. Read our SNHU B.S. Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination review
- Cost 9.8
- Credential 8
- Skills 7
Score 77.0
Rank #5 Bachelor's
Seton Hall University
The program page says this major prepares you for the CFE exam and for investigative careers in government or industry. Read our Seton Hall University B.S.B. Forensic Accounting review
- Pay 10
- Credential 10
- Reputation 9.3
Score 67.9
Rank #6 Bachelor's
Champlain College
The degree readies you to take the Certified Fraud Examiner test, and recommendations from the association behind that credential shaped its learning outcomes. Read our Champlain College B.S. Economic Crime Investigation review
- Cost 10
- Credential 8
- Completion 6.1
Score 65.9
Rank #7 Bachelor's
Fort Hays State University
Fraud Examination covers skimming, cash larceny, check tampering, billing and payroll schemes, corruption and fraudulent financial statements, and it teaches interviewing witnesses. Read our Fort Hays State University B.S. Financial Forensics review
- Cost 10
- Completion 7.5
- Credential 6
Score 65.3
Rank #8 Bachelor's
University of Central Oklahoma
The program page tells you to prepare for respected credentials, including the Certified Fraud Examiner, and graduates can pursue that certification after finishing. Read our Central Oklahoma B.S. Forensic Accounting review
- Credential 10
- Cost 6.4
- Reputation 6.1
Score 63.5
Rank #9 Bachelor's
Davenport University
Davenport says the curriculum aligns with the CPA, CFE and Certified Management Accountant exams, and that you will be well prepared for all three. Read our Davenport University BBA Accounting Fraud review
- Credential 8
- Reputation 6.6
- Cost 5.5
Score 62.9
Rank #10 Bachelor's
University of Northwestern Ohio
The forensic accounting major is built to prepare you for the Certified Fraud Examiner exam through an intensive study of fraud, including prevention and detection. Read our Northwestern Ohio B.S. Forensic Accounting review
- Cost 8.2
- Credential 6
- Skills 4.8
Score 62.7
Rank #11 Bachelor's
Purdue University Global
The three courses in the Forensic Accountancy concentration provide educational content that may help support your preparation toward the Certified Fraud Examiner credential. Read our Purdue University Global B.S. Forensic Accountancy review
- Credential 8
- Cost 7
- Skills 6.4
Score 62.1
Rank #12 Bachelor's
DeSales University
The catalog says the forensic track is meant to give you the academic background for certification as a Certified Fraud Examiner. Read our DeSales University B.S. Forensic Accounting review
- Credential 8
- Pay 3.5
- Completion 3.4
Score 38.0
Rank #1 Graduate Certificate
Seton Hill University
The certificate is designed to prepare you to earn the CFE, and the CFE designation is valued by accountants and investigators in insurance, ecommerce and criminal justice. Read our Seton Hill University Fraud Examination Certificate review
- Credential 8
- Focus 7.5
- Skills 7.3
Score 77.1
Rank #2 Graduate Certificate
Michigan Technological University
Advanced Auditing and Fraud Examination is an in-depth study of auditing with a focus on fraud examination from an external auditor's perspective, while Audit and Assurance covers auditor responsibilities, ethics, standards, internal control and evidence. Read our Michigan Tech Forensic Accounting Certificate review
- Credential 10
- Completion 7.4
- Skills 2.4
Score 49.5
Master's
Forensic Accounting Master's Degrees Ranked for 2027
#1 Master's
West Virginia University
Master of Science in Forensic and Fraud Examination
- Fully Online
- West Virginia
- Public
- AACSB Accredited
- CFE Exam Prep
100.0 / 100
Highest score among master's programs
How It Prepares You for the CFE
The curriculum builds toward two exams for you, the CFE and the Certified Valuation Analyst. Fraud Investigation covers fraud types, documents and sources of evidence, Fraud Data Analysis covers computer-aided techniques and digital evidence, and Private Company Valuation builds the skills behind the second credential. Teaching Professor Dr. David P. Weber is himself a Certified Fraud Examiner.
- Per Credit
- $1,063
- Credits
- 30
- Est. Tuition
- $31,890
- Graduate Pay
- $98,517
All 8 Scores
Forensic Training
Value and Outcomes
#2 Master's
Murray State University
Master of Public Administration with a Concentration in Forensic Accounting
- Fully Online
- Kentucky
- Public
- AACSB Accredited
- CFE Exam Prep
97.9 / 100
One of the lowest prices among master's programs
How It Prepares You for the CFE
According to the school, this program readies you to take the CFE exam. The introductory fraud examination course covers detection, deterrence and investigation, Legal Environment for Fraud Management Professionals covers courts, evidence and expert witness work, and Fraud Analytics trains you on the auditing tools that flag fraudulent transactions. You also study the fraud examiner's role as an expert witness.
- Per Credit
- $472
- Credits
- 36
- Est. Tuition
- $16,974
- Length
- 12 months
All 7 Scores
Forensic Training
Value and Outcomes
#3 Master's
Murray State University
Master of Business Administration with a Concentration in Forensic Accounting
- Fully Online
- Kentucky
- Public
- AACSB Accredited
- CFE Exam Prep
97.0 / 100
One of the lowest prices among master's programs
How It Prepares You for the CFE
Murray State belongs to the Anti-Fraud Education Partnership of the group that issues the CFE credential, so students who decide to sit for the exam are entitled to a low-cost student certification package. The coursework is designed to prepare you for that exam, and your four concentration courses include Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination and Legal Environment for Fraud Management Professionals.
- Per Credit
- $606
- Credits
- 30
- Est. Tuition
- $18,180
- Length
- 12 to 18 months
All 7 Scores
Forensic Training
Value and Outcomes
#4 Master's
Utica University
Master of Science in Forensic Accounting
- Fully Online
- New York
- Private nonprofit
- CFE Exam Prep
96.8 / 100
Top 3 for completion among master's programs
How It Prepares You for the CFE
Required work in Financial Investigations and in Fraud Management and Technology builds the base, and you can add electives such as Legal Concepts of Criminal Fraud, Advanced Fraud Analysis and Management of Fraud Prevention and Detection. Utica says this fraud coursework helps prepare you to pursue the CFE, along with the Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist credential.
- Per Credit
- $775
- Credits
- 30
- Est. Tuition
- $23,250
- Graduate Pay
- $108,561
All 8 Scores
Forensic Training
Value and Outcomes
#5 Master's
Florida Atlantic University
Executive Master of Accounting, Forensic Accounting Concentration
- Fully Online
- Florida
- Public
- AACSB Accredited
96.7 / 100
Top 3 for investigative skill coverage among master's programs
How It Prepares You for the CFE
Florida Atlantic is a member of the fraud examiners' association's Anti-Fraud Education Partnership, a useful tie if you are working toward the Certified Fraud Examiner credential. The fraud coursework includes Accounting Fraud Examination Concepts on how occupational fraud is committed and deterred, Conduct and Procedures on detecting and investigating specific frauds, and Forensic Accounting and the Legal Environment on evidence and expert witnesses.
- Per Credit
- $928
- Graduate Pay
- $99,288
- Length
- 12 to 32 months
All 8 Scores
Forensic Training
Value and Outcomes
#6 Master's
Saint Xavier University
Master of Business Administration, Fraud Examination and Management
- Fully Online
- Illinois
- Private nonprofit
- AACSB Accredited
- CFE Exam Prep
90.8 / 100
Top 3 for hands-on casework among master's programs
How It Prepares You for the CFE
The curriculum is built to give you the education that Certified Fraud Examiner certification calls for, and the program is an educational partner with the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners. Fraud Examination covers the elements of fraud along with prevention, detection and investigation, while Forensic and Investigative Accounting adds fraud auditing and courtroom procedure. Several of your instructors are Certified Fraud Examiners themselves.
- Per Credit
- $799
- Credits
- 30
- Est. Tuition
- $23,970
- Length
- 12 to 20 months
All 7 Scores
Forensic Training
Value and Outcomes
#7 Master's
York College of Pennsylvania
Master of Accounting in Fraud and Forensics
- Fully Online
- Pennsylvania
- Private nonprofit
- CFE Exam Prep
86.5 / 100
Top 3 for hands-on casework among master's programs
How It Prepares You for the CFE
York College of Pennsylvania takes part in the Anti-Fraud Education Partnership run with the Certified Fraud Examiners organization, so real-world anti-fraud case studies and industry materials run through your courses. The school lists the Certified Fraud Examiner as a credential the degree prepares you for. Corporate Fraud covers gathering evidence and assessing fraud risk, and a separate course focuses on fraud examination itself.
- Per Credit
- $710
- Credits
- 30
- Est. Tuition
- $21,300
- Length
- 12 to 24 months
All 7 Scores
Forensic Training
Value and Outcomes
#8 Master's
Carlow University
Master of Science in Fraud and Forensics
- Fully Online
- Pennsylvania
- Private nonprofit
- CFE Exam Prep
81.5 / 100
Top forensic coursework score among master's programs
How It Prepares You for the CFE
Carlow has an educational partnership with the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners, and the program says you will be prepared to sit for the CFE exam. Legal Elements of Fraud covers the rules of evidence and obtaining reliable evidence for trial, Audit Procedures for Detecting Fraud covers document analysis and internal controls, and Comprehensive Fraud Investigation covers the interview and interrogation process and report writing.
- Per Credit
- $800
- Credits
- 30
- Est. Tuition
- $24,000
- Graduate Pay
- $95,368
All 8 Scores
Forensic Training
Value and Outcomes
#9 Master's
SUNY Old Westbury
Master of Science in Forensic Accounting
- On Campus
- New York
- Public
- AACSB Accredited
- CFE Exam Prep
80.6 / 100
Top 3 for forensic coursework among master's programs
How It Prepares You for the CFE
The CFE Manual from the association behind the credential is woven into the curriculum, giving you a comprehensive overview of the material covered on the CFE exam. Required courses include Fraud Examination, Fraudulent Financial Reporting and Forensic Interviewing, Fraud and the Law, and program director Dr. David Glodstein is both a Certified Public Accountant and a Certified Fraud Examiner.
- Per Credit
- $1,072
- Credits
- 30
- Est. Tuition
- $32,160
- Graduate Pay
- $84,887
All 8 Scores
Forensic Training
Value and Outcomes
#10 Master's
Seton Hill University
Master of Business Administration, Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination Specialization
- Fully Online
- Pennsylvania
- Private nonprofit
- CFE Exam Prep
68.5 / 100
Forensic Program Score
How It Prepares You for the CFE
Fraud Prevention and Deterrence covers occupational fraud, fraud risk assessment and the Code of Professional Ethics for fraud examiners, so the fraud examiner's own professional standards are part of your coursework. Seton Hill says the program helps prepare you for the Certified Fraud Examiner and Certified Internal Auditor credentials, and a graduate story celebrates the first from the program to earn the CFE.
- Per Credit
- $1,015
- Credits
- 30
- Est. Tuition
- $30,450
- Length
- 12 to 24 months
All 7 Scores
Forensic Training
Value and Outcomes
Rank #11
Roosevelt University
The catalog names the standard curriculum as the recommended path to Certified Fraud Examiner certification, so the courses you already take are your preparation. Read our Roosevelt University M.S. Accounting Forensics review
- Credential 8
- Pay 6.8
- Skills 6.4
Score 67.7
Rank #12
Tiffin University
Your fraud courses focus on material covered on the Certified Fraud Examiner exam: Fraud Prevention and Deterrence, Fraud Investigations, Fraud Legal Environment, and Financial Transactions and Fraud Schemes. Read our Tiffin University MBA Fraud Examination review
- Credential 8
- Skills 5
- Cost 4.7
Score 65.6
Rank #13
University of Scranton
The specialization helps you prepare for the CFE exam and CPA licensure, so one set of courses serves two credentials. Read our University of Scranton MAcc Forensic Accounting review
- Credential 10
- Reputation 8
- Pay 4.9
Score 56.4
Bachelor's
Forensic Accounting Bachelor's Degrees Ranked for 2027
#1 Bachelor's
Franklin University
Bachelor of Science in Forensic Accounting
- Fully Online
- Ohio
- Private nonprofit
- CFE Exam Prep
89.4 / 100
Highest score among bachelor's programs
How It Prepares You for the CFE
This degree builds the foundation for seeking Certified Fraud Examiner, Certified Public Accountant or Certified Internal Auditor certification. Fraud Examination covers behavioral research on occupational fraud and how an examination handles evidence, interviews, reports and testimony, and a separate course teaches interviewing and the legal elements of fraud investigations. In the capstone, you plan and report the results of a fraud examination.
- Per Credit
- $398
- Credits
- 124
- Est. Tuition
- $49,352
- Graduate Pay
- $65,816
All 8 Scores
Forensic Training
Value and Outcomes
#2 Bachelor's
Loyola University Maryland
Bachelor of Business Administration in Forensic Accounting
- On Campus
- Maryland
- Private nonprofit
- AACSB Accredited
- CFE Exam Prep
87.9 / 100
Top completion score among bachelor's programs
How It Prepares You for the CFE
Your instructors include professionals who hold the CFE, alongside CPAs and expert witnesses. Loyola says the degree supports the path to professional licensure and certification, including the CPA and CFE. It is compatible with the 3+1 and 4+1 Master of Accounting options, where motivated students can accelerate their progress and graduate with both degrees in just four to five years.
- Per Credit
- $975
- Graduate Pay
- $103,352
All 8 Scores
Forensic Training
Value and Outcomes
#3 Bachelor's
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott
Bachelor of Science in Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination
- On Campus
- Arizona
- Private nonprofit
- CFE Exam Prep
79.1 / 100
Top 3 for graduate pay among bachelor's programs
How It Prepares You for the CFE
You will find course topics that follow the areas of the certification behind the CFE: financial transactions and fraud schemes, fraud prevention and deterrence, investigation, and law. The required core pairs a forensic accounting course with Fraud Auditing and Examination, with White Collar Crime and Interview Techniques and Tactics alongside. A student chapter of the fraud examiners association is part of campus life.
- Per Credit
- $1,767
- Credits
- 120
- Graduate Pay
- $98,996
All 8 Scores
Forensic Training
Value and Outcomes
#4 Bachelor's
Southern New Hampshire University
Bachelor of Science in Accounting with a Concentration in Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination
- Fully Online
- New Hampshire
- Private nonprofit
- CFE Exam Prep
77.0 / 100
Top 3 for investigative skill coverage among bachelor's programs
How It Prepares You for the CFE
The 12-credit concentration brings together classic fraud types, financial statement fraud, interview strategies with legal aspects, and investigating with computers, the building blocks of a fraud examiner's work. The school calls the concentration a great place to start toward the Certified Fraud Examiner credential, because it lays the necessary foundation for that path, and you practice questioning techniques on realistic scenarios.
- Per Credit
- $354
- Credits
- 120
- Est. Tuition
- $42,480
- Graduate Pay
- $70,181
All 8 Scores
Forensic Training
Value and Outcomes
#5 Bachelor's
Seton Hall University
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Forensic Accounting
- On Campus
- New Jersey
- Private nonprofit
- AACSB Accredited
- CFE Exam Prep
67.9 / 100
Top 3 for program reputation among bachelor's programs
How It Prepares You for the CFE
The program page says this major prepares you for the CFE exam and for investigative careers in government or industry. Seton Hall's catalog notes that the group administering the credential offers resources to support students who aspire to earn it. Your coursework includes Forensic Accounting and Fraud Investigation, which builds forensic techniques, financial analysis and legal considerations, plus criminal procedure and evidence.
- Per Credit
- $1,540
- Graduate Pay
- $102,626
All 8 Scores
Forensic Training
Value and Outcomes
#6 Bachelor's
Champlain College
Bachelor of Science in Economic Crime Investigation
- Fully Online
- Vermont
- Private nonprofit
- CFE Exam Prep
65.9 / 100
One of the lowest prices among bachelor's programs
How It Prepares You for the CFE
The degree readies you to take the Certified Fraud Examiner test, and recommendations from the association behind that credential shaped its learning outcomes. Forensic Accounting covers fraud examination techniques, interviewing and rules of evidence, while White-Collar Crime examines consumer, securities, corporate and health care fraud. An optional certificate in Forensic Accounting adds to your resume.
- Per Credit
- $342
- Credits
- 120
- Est. Tuition
- $41,040
- Graduate Pay
- $68,274
All 8 Scores
Forensic Training
Value and Outcomes
#7 Bachelor's
Fort Hays State University
Bachelor of Science in Financial Forensics and Fraud Investigation
- Fully Online
- Kansas
- Public
- CFE Exam Prep
65.3 / 100
One of the lowest prices among bachelor's programs
How It Prepares You for the CFE
Fraud Examination covers skimming, cash larceny, check tampering, billing and payroll schemes, corruption and fraudulent financial statements, and it teaches interviewing witnesses. The school says the program provides knowledge and skills aligned with the CFE credential. A student chapter of the fraud examiners' association is open to online and on-campus learners and offers conferences and networking, so you can start building contacts early.
- Per Credit
- $276
- Credits
- 120
- Est. Tuition
- $33,078
- Graduate Pay
- $63,148
All 8 Scores
Forensic Training
Value and Outcomes
#8 Bachelor's
University of Central Oklahoma
Bachelor of Science in Forensic Accounting
- On Campus
- Oklahoma
- Public
- AACSB Accredited
- CFE Exam Prep
63.5 / 100
Top 3 for credential pathway among bachelor's programs
How It Prepares You for the CFE
The program page tells you to prepare for respected credentials, including the Certified Fraud Examiner, and graduates can pursue that certification after finishing. Fraud Auditing and Forensic Accounting are required courses, joined by Data Analysis for Accountants, Auditing, and forensic science classes such as Criminal Procedure for Forensic Science and two digital forensics courses with labs.
- Per Credit
- $616
- Graduate Pay
- $73,074
All 8 Scores
Forensic Training
Value and Outcomes
#9 Bachelor's
Davenport University
Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting, Accounting Fraud Specialty
- Fully Online
- Michigan
- Private nonprofit
- CFE Exam Prep
62.9 / 100
Forensic Program Score
How It Prepares You for the CFE
Davenport says the curriculum aligns with the CPA, CFE and Certified Management Accountant exams, and that you will be well prepared for all three. The Accounting Fraud Examination course covers the fraud triangle, financial statement misrepresentation and prevention and control, and you list common red flags and detection methods. The Accounting Fraud Specialty adds 12 credits.
- Per Credit
- $716
- Credits
- 120
- Est. Tuition
- $85,920
- Graduate Pay
- $68,792
All 8 Scores
Forensic Training
Value and Outcomes
#10 Bachelor's
University of Northwestern Ohio
Bachelor of Science in Accounting, Forensic Accounting
- On Campus
- Ohio
- Private nonprofit
- CFE Exam Prep
62.7 / 100
Top quarter for forensic coursework among bachelor's programs
How It Prepares You for the CFE
The forensic accounting major is built to prepare you for the Certified Fraud Examiner exam through an intensive study of fraud, including prevention and detection. Required courses include Financial Statement Investigation, a two-part Forensic Accounting sequence and Legal Implications of Fraud Examination, each worth five credits. The curriculum also covers white collar crime, federal regulation of fraud examinations and the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
- Per Credit
- $305
- Credits
- 180 quarter
- Est. Tuition
- $54,900
- Graduate Pay
- $52,038
All 8 Scores
Forensic Training
Value and Outcomes
Rank #11
Purdue University Global
The three courses in the Forensic Accountancy concentration provide educational content that may help support your preparation toward the Certified Fraud Examiner credential. Read our Purdue University Global B.S. Forensic Accountancy review
- Credential 8
- Cost 7
- Skills 6.4
Score 62.1
Rank #12
DeSales University
The catalog says the forensic track is meant to give you the academic background for certification as a Certified Fraud Examiner. Read our DeSales University B.S. Forensic Accounting review
- Credential 8
- Pay 3.5
- Completion 3.4
Score 38.0
Graduate Certificate
Forensic Accounting Graduate Certificates Ranked for 2027
#1 Graduate Certificate
Seton Hill University
Forensic and Fraud Examination Graduate Certificate
- Fully Online
- Pennsylvania
- Private nonprofit
- CFE Exam Prep
77.1 / 100
Top 3 for forensic coursework among graduate certificate programs
How It Prepares You for the CFE
The certificate is designed to prepare you to earn the CFE, and the CFE designation is valued by accountants and investigators in insurance, ecommerce and criminal justice. Financial Transactions & Schemes examines hundreds of common employee fraud schemes, from asset misappropriation to bribery and corruption. Fraud Prevention & Deterrence even covers the professional ethics code of the fraud examiners' own association.
- Per Credit
- $1,015
- Credits
- 12
- Est. Tuition
- $12,180
All 7 Scores
Forensic Training
Value and Outcomes
#2 Graduate Certificate
Michigan Technological University
Forensic Accounting Graduate Certificate
- On Campus
- Michigan
- Public
- AACSB Accredited
- CFE Exam Prep
49.5 / 100
Top credential pathway score among graduate certificate programs
How It Prepares You for the CFE
Advanced Auditing and Fraud Examination is an in-depth study of auditing with a focus on fraud examination from an external auditor's perspective, while Audit and Assurance covers auditor responsibilities, ethics, standards, internal control and evidence. Michigan Tech says that with this certificate you are better equipped to pass professional certifications such as the Certified Fraud Examiner and Certified Financial Forensics.
- Per Credit
- $1,665
- Credits
- 9
All 7 Scores
Forensic Training
Value and Outcomes
Side by Side
Compare Every Forensic Accounting Program for CFE Exam Prep Side by Side
All 27 forensic accounting programs on this list in one table. Sort any column; the order you see first is the ranking.
| Rank | School and Program | Degree | Score | Cost per Credit | Credits | Delivery | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | West Virginia University M.S. Master of Science in Forensic and Fraud Examination | Master's | 100.0 | $1,063 | 30 | Fully Online | AACSB |
| 2 | Murray State University MPA Master of Public Administration with a Concentration in Forensic Accounting | Master's | 97.9 | $471.50 | 36 | Fully Online | AACSB |
| 3 | Murray State University MBA Master of Business Administration with a Concentration in Forensic Accounting | Master's | 97.0 | $606 | 30 | Fully Online | AACSB, ACFE Partner |
| 4 | Utica University M.S. Master of Science in Forensic Accounting | Master's | 96.8 | $775 | 30 | Fully Online | ACBSP |
| 5 | Florida Atlantic University M.Acc. Executive Master of Accounting, Forensic Accounting Concentration | Master's | 96.7 | Fully Online | AACSB, ACFE Partner | ||
| 6 | Saint Xavier University MBA Master of Business Administration, Fraud Examination and Management | Master's | 90.8 | $799 | 30 | Fully Online | AACSB |
| 7 | York College of Pennsylvania M.Acc. Master of Accounting in Fraud and Forensics | Master's | 86.5 | $710 | 30 | Fully Online | ACBSP, ACFE Partner |
| 8 | Carlow University M.S. Master of Science in Fraud and Forensics | Master's | 81.5 | $800 | 30 | Fully Online | IACBE, ACFE Partner |
| 9 | SUNY Old Westbury M.S. Master of Science in Forensic Accounting | Master's | 80.6 | $1,072 | 30 | On Campus | AACSB |
| 10 | Seton Hill University M.B.A. Master of Business Administration, Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination Specialization | Master's | 68.5 | $1,015 | 30 | Fully Online | IACBE |
| 11 | Roosevelt University M.S. Master of Science in Accounting Forensics | Master's | 67.7 | 30 | Fully Online | ACBSP | |
| 12 | Tiffin University MBA Master of Business Administration, Forensics and Fraud Examination | Master's | 65.6 | $755 | Fully Online | ACBSP | |
| 13 | University of Scranton M.Acc. Master of Accountancy, Forensic Accounting Specialization | Master's | 56.4 | $895 | 30 | Fully Online | AACSB |
| 1 | Franklin University B.S. Bachelor of Science in Forensic Accounting | Bachelor's | 89.4 | $398 | 124 | Fully Online | IACBE |
| 2 | Loyola University Maryland B.B.A. Bachelor of Business Administration in Forensic Accounting | Bachelor's | 87.9 | $975 | On Campus | AACSB | |
| 3 | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott B.S. Bachelor of Science in Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination | Bachelor's | 79.1 | 120 | On Campus | ACBSP | |
| 4 | Southern New Hampshire University B.S. Bachelor of Science in Accounting with a Concentration in Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination | Bachelor's | 77.0 | $354 | 120 | Fully Online | ACBSP |
| 5 | Seton Hall University B.S.B. Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Forensic Accounting | Bachelor's | 67.9 | On Campus | AACSB | ||
| 6 | Champlain College B.S. Bachelor of Science in Economic Crime Investigation | Bachelor's | 65.9 | $342 | 120 | Fully Online | ACBSP |
| 7 | Fort Hays State University B.S. Bachelor of Science in Financial Forensics and Fraud Investigation | Bachelor's | 65.3 | $275.65 | 120 | Fully Online | |
| 8 | University of Central Oklahoma B.S. Bachelor of Science in Forensic Accounting | Bachelor's | 63.5 | On Campus | AACSB | ||
| 9 | Davenport University B.B.A. Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting, Accounting Fraud Specialty | Bachelor's | 62.9 | $716 | 120 | Fully Online | IACBE |
| 10 | University of Northwestern Ohio B.S. Bachelor of Science in Accounting, Forensic Accounting | Bachelor's | 62.7 | $305 | 180 | On Campus | |
| 11 | Purdue University Global B.S. Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Analytics, Forensic Accountancy Concentration | Bachelor's | 62.1 | $371 | 180 | Fully Online | ACBSP |
| 12 | DeSales University B.S. Bachelor of Science in Accounting, Forensic Accounting Track | Bachelor's | 38.0 | 120 | On Campus | ACBSP | |
| 1 | Seton Hill University Graduate Certificate Forensic and Fraud Examination Graduate Certificate | Graduate Certificate | 77.1 | $1,015 | 12 | Fully Online | IACBE |
| 2 | Michigan Technological University Graduate Certificate Forensic Accounting Graduate Certificate | Graduate Certificate | 49.5 | 9 | On Campus | AACSB |
How CFE Eligibility Works
The ACFE uses a point system. You must be an Associate Member of the ACFE, you need 40 points to sit for the exam, and you need 50 points to be certified. Any points you claim for education must come from an accredited institution of higher learning.
A bachelor's degree typically provides 40 points, and no particular major is required. That's what makes a degree from one of these programs a direct route to exam eligibility. Without a degree, the ACFE lets you substitute two years of fraud-related experience for each year of academic study.
The ACFE also asks for at least two years of professional experience in work related, directly or indirectly, to detecting or deterring fraud. You need that by the time you're certified, not before the exam. You must also agree to follow the ACFE bylaws and Code of Professional Ethics.
What the Exam Covers and How It Runs
The CFE exam has three sections. Fraud Schemes and Financial Crimes gives you 2.5 hours for 120 questions. Fraud Investigations and Legal Issues also gives you 2.5 hours for 120 questions. Fraud Prevention and Deterrence gives you 1.5 hours for 70 questions. The questions are multiple choice and true or false.
You can test with a live proctor remotely or at a Prometric testing center. After your eligibility is activated, you've got a 60-day window to schedule and finish all sections, and each section must be completed in one sitting. Plan your study time around that window.
Coursework in forensic accounting programs for CFE exam prep mirrors those headings. Tiffin University's concentration includes Fraud Prevention and Deterrence, Fraud Investigations, Fraud Legal Environment, and Financial Transactions and Fraud Schemes. Roosevelt University's catalog describes its master's curriculum as the recommended path to the CFE exam.
Programs With a Direct Link to the ACFE
Some forensic accounting programs for CFE exam prep have a formal tie to the ACFE. Carlow University describes an Anti-Fraud Education Partnership with the ACFE. Murray State University, York College of Pennsylvania and Florida Atlantic University also list membership in that partnership. Tiffin University created its forensics and fraud examination concentration with the assistance of the ACFE.
Others build the credential into the curriculum. Franklin University's program draws on the fraud detection and prevention techniques of the ACFE. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University's Prescott campus covers the major sections of the certification in its bachelor's.
At Loyola University Maryland, faculty include Certified Fraud Examiners, CPAs and experienced expert witnesses. West Virginia University's students pitch cases to real Internal Revenue Service criminal investigators in capstone simulations.
If you're an undergraduate, you have strong options as well. Southern New Hampshire University and Champlain College both state CFE preparation. Purdue University Global says its accounting and analytics degree helps you fulfill the educational requirements to sit for the CFE exam. Its three forensic accountancy courses cover fraud investigation, red flags in financial statements and digital evidence.
Pairing the CFE With a CPA Path
Many fraud investigators hold both credentials. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that state boards of accountancy issue CPA licenses and that all states require 150 semester hours of college coursework. A master's can help you reach that total.
Several forensic accounting programs for CFE exam prep speak to both goals. York College of Pennsylvania prepares students for the CPA, the CFE and the Certified Forensic Accountant credential. Carlow University, the University of Scranton and Seton Hill University state that their credits count toward the 150 hours.
The University of Central Oklahoma prepares students for all three credentials. Southern New Hampshire University aligns its accounting core to the 2024 Uniform CPA Examination.
Rules differ from state to state, so check your own state board of accountancy for its exact rules.
Frequently Asked Questions About CFE Exam Prep Programs
What Are the Best Forensic Accounting Programs for CFE Exam Prep in 2027?
Do I Need a Specific Degree to Become a CFE?
Can I Take the CFE Exam Right After Graduating?
What Does the CFE Exam Test?
Does a Master's Degree Count More Than a Bachelor's for the CFE?
Which Schools Belong to the ACFE Anti-Fraud Education Partnership?
Can a Certificate Help Me Prepare for the CFE Exam?
Sources
- CFE Credential Eligibility Requirements (Association of Certified Fraud Examiners)About the CFE Exam (Association of Certified Fraud Examiners)
- Accountants and Auditors, Occupational Outlook Handbook (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- Master's in Fraud and Forensics (Carlow University)
- MBA in Forensics and Fraud Examination (Tiffin University)
- Master of Science in Accounting, Forensics (Roosevelt University)
- Accounting with Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination (Southern New Hampshire University)
- Forensic and Fraud Examination, M.S. (West Virginia University)
WVU's M.S., Murray State's MPA, Murray State's MBA, Utica University's M.S., FAU's MAcc, Saint Xavier University's MBA, York College's MAcc, Carlow University's M.S., SUNY Old Westbury's M.S., Seton Hill University's MBA, Roosevelt University's M.S., Tiffin University's MBA, University of Scranton's MAcc, Franklin University's B.S., Loyola University Maryland's BBA, Embry-Riddle Prescott's B.S., SNHU's B.S., Seton Hall University's B.S.B., Champlain College's B.S., Fort Hays State's B.S., Central Oklahoma's B.S., Davenport University's BBA, Northwestern Ohio's B.S., Purdue University Global's B.S., DeSales University's B.S., Seton Hill University's Certificate, Michigan Tech's Certificate
- IPEDS Data Center
- CFE credential eligibility
Sources retrieved to .