Graduate Certificate in Accounting for Government Contracts

Support the specific needs of the $500 billion government contracting industry with a graduate certificate in accounting for government contracts from the Costello College of Business at George Mason University. 

Learn how to implement federal acquisition regulation compliant accounting systems, create job cost reports and budgets, analyze indirect rate calculations and cost allocations, and facilitate internal control and federal audit compliance. 

George Mason University's graduate certificate in accounting for government contracts, in partnership with Unanet, is an opportunity to acquire education in the field of government accounting with a federal government contracting emphasis. Courses in the certificate program will also help prepare you to sit for the Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM) exam sponsored by the Association of Government Accountants (AGA).  

Employers, whether government contractors or service providers of government contractors, have a significant need for employees with knowledge of acquisition regulations, project (cost) accounting, and the processes and systems required to remain compliant. Courses in this program will prepare you to meet that need and include the fundamentals of government contracting, auditing for government contracts, and how to adhere to the specific regulations required.  

Students who complete at least two accounting for government contracts certificate courses with grades of B or better can have their application requirements for our master’s in accounting program reduced, and certificate course credits can be applied towards your master’s in accounting degree requirements upon enrollment.  

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Virtual Format
Attend instructor-led courses (synchronous) from anywhere.
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Flexible Schedule
Complete the program in 2 semesters.
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12 Credits
Fall start.
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Pathway to a Master's
This certificate can be applied to the master’s in accounting program.

Request More Information

To learn more about George Mason's graduate certificate in accounting for government contracts, submit this form:

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I eligible for this program if I don’t have an undergraduate degree in accounting?

Yes. Applicants without an undergraduate degree in accounting may still be admitted to the program. All applicants must demonstrate a strong basic foundation in accounting specifically Principles of Accounting, Intermediate Accounting, and Audit. Check with Costello Graduate Admissions to determine the most efficient and affordable way to complete these courses. Email us at gradbus@gmu.edu.

What preparation is required if I don’t have an undergraduate degree in accounting?

To ensure the candidates are prepared for their program, we require two courses in Principles of Accounting, two courses in Intermediate Financial Accounting, and one course in Audit.

To complete efficiently and affordably, we encourage students to take their accounting courses through Northern Virginia Community College (NVCC). Candidates can enroll and complete their coursework before applying or after applying to the program.

To determine the quickest path based on previously taken coursework, please contact Costello Graduate Admissions at gradbus@gmu.edu.

What are the benefits of a graduate certificate?

Earning a graduate certificate offers several significant benefits that make them appealing to professionals seeking to further their education. Among the most important of these include:

  1. Maximize Your Time and Money
  2. Develop a Specific Skill Set
  3. Advance Your Career or Make a Career Change
  4. Preparation for a Graduate Degree