Master of Science in Taxation OnlineGraduate Business Program

Message from the Director Mission, Vision, and Core Values Program Overview E-Learning Difference MST Curriculum Core Courses Elective Courses

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Distinguished Faculty Student Support Network Application Process Computer Requirements Frequently Asked Questions Northeastern University

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MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR

Welcome to Northeastern Universitys online Master of Science in Taxation (MST) program. We have designed this program with the seasoned tax professional in mind. The program may expand and enhance the tax professionals knowledge about the various areas of the tax code and field of taxation. Todays tax environment demands a continuing development of the tax professional in a range of ever-changing tax law. The practice of taxation becomes more complex every year with new laws, regulations, and court cases. Northeastern Universitys MST program is designed to prepare the tax professional to meet these changes and challenges. After completing the core courses our MST program encourages the student to refine their advanced knowledge by concentrating in either of two specialty tracts: (1) taxation of entities or (2) the taxation of individuals.

I encourage you to expand your knowledge of the tax field in a high-tech caring environment at Northeastern University. Please speak with our enrollment office to learn more about our unique program. Timothy Gagnon Faculty Director of the online MST Program P.S. See you in class and on the web.

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MISSION, VISION, AND CORE VALUESOUR MISSION

We strive to create a vibrant and diverse community characterized by collaboration, creativity, an unwavering commitment to excellence, and an equally unwavering commitment to exhibiting respect for one another. We aspire to be a model for what our society can be.

To educate students for a life of fulfillment and accomplishment. To create and translate knowledge to meet global and societal needs.

OUR VISIONOur vision is to be a university that expands the meaning and impact of our engagement in the world using our knowledge and resources as positive forces for change in both our local communities and our global society. This vision is extended to students in the form of a transformative experience grounded in experiential education. It is meant to ignite their passion for learning while opening them up to the endless possibilities around them. We will assist our students in becoming engaged citizens of the world, confident and resourceful people who realize that their knowledge and actions can have a positive effect on their own lives and the lives of others. This vision will be realized through interdisciplinary scholarship and translational research by which we will dynamically participate in addressing problems in our urban environment, in our region, and across the globe. Northeastern strives to translate fundamental research into applications that contribute to economic development and enhance societal well-being. Our collaborative approach aims to encompass partners in government and industry as well as artists, innovators, and scholars both inside and outside our community.

OUR CORE VALUESContribution Northeastern seeks to contribute to the individual fulfillment of each member of the campus, to the welfare of the surrounding communities, and to solutions that will address global and societal needs. Diversity Northeastern celebrates diversity in all its forms and fosters a culture of respect that affirms inter-group relations and builds community. Engagement Northeastern promotes active engagement in teaching and learning, in scholarship and research, in the life of urban communities, and with our alumni and friends. Integrity Northeastern pursues each of its activities and interactions with integrity, maintaining the highest ethical standards. Opportunity Northeastern provides opportunities to those who strive to overcome disadvantages and show great promise for future success.

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PROGRAM OVERVIEwEARN YOUR MASTER OF SCIENCE IN TAxATION DEGREE CONVENIENTLY ONLINENortheastern University is pleased to offer its prestigious Master of Science in Taxation (MST) degree program in a convenient online format. MST students are able to enhance their understanding of the legal and public policy aspects of taxation. A comprehensive and challenging curriculum has been designed to sharpen the knowledge and skills of tax professionals like you, who want to stay current with industry and economic trends. As tax laws become more complex and as business becomes more competitive, the need for highly trained tax experts becomes even more obvious. The online MST program aims to refine your skills in order to face the challenges of the profession successfully.

CONVENIENCE AND FLExIbILITY FOR wORkING PROFESSIONALSThe online MST is convenient and flexible. Log on anytime, interact one-on-one with your instructors and classmates, and bring real-life challenges from your workplace to the classroom. Participate in online discussions with your professors and fellow students, giving voice to your ideas and learning from the perspectives of others.

DEVELOP AN ExPANDED bUSINESS NETwORkEvery student follows the same progression through the core curriculum, taking one course at a time. The intimate class size allows you to develop close relationships with the other students in your section and expand your business network.

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A world-Class Education Fully Accredited by AACSb International

ACCREDITATIONNortheastern University is accredited by AACSB International AACSB accreditation is the hallmark of excellence in management education. It represents the highest standard of achievement for business schools worldwide. Programs receiving AACSB International accreditation have superior faculty, high-caliber teaching, and meaningful interaction between students and faculty. Less than five percent of the worlds business programs and only 25 percent of U.S. business school programs have achieved AACSB International accreditation. It confirms our commitment to quality and continuous improvement through a rigorous and comprehensive peer review process. Your diploma will be the same as the one earned by students on campus. The Nations Oldest Regional Accreditation Association Northeastern University is accredited by the nations oldest regional accrediting association, the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc., through its Commission on Institutions of Higher Education.

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E-LEARNING DIFFERENCEEnjoy the Advantages of Online Learningwe understand how important it is to be able to pursue a graduate degree while minimizing the disruption to your professional and personal life. Northeasterns online MST program provides this opportunity, delivering a highly respected degree in an innovative format. You can learn from anywhere at any time of day that suits you, while maintaining strong communication with faculty and fellow students. Here are some of the many benefits of e-learning...

FLExIbLE LEARNINGE-Learning is designed for busy professionals like you. The program is based on an innovative, asynchronous model that allows you to plan your study time around your schedule, and work at your own pace. Your instructor outlines the requirements so you know what to expect and how to prepare.

INTIMATE CLASSESWe group students into small sections of fewer than 20 students. This allows you to be part of an online learning community of peers that provides support, challenges your knowledge, and encourages debate. Your section becomes part of your real-world network a powerful group of friends and business contacts youll have for life.

ACCESSIbLE RESOURCESAll printed materials and text books are conveniently delivered to your home before each course begins. Resources such as the online library and access to current course materials are available from your desktop 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, all year long. Many students report that using the online library is easier and more convenient than visiting a traditional brick-and-mortar library.

INDIVIDUAL ATTENTIONBecause the virtual class size is small, students receive individual attention from faculty and group instructors. Our instructors are experienced academic and business professionals who understand todays corporate world and are trained in online instruction. Your instructor facilitates your learning community, engaging you in discussions on current issues and case studies.

TIMELY RESPONSESWith just a click, you can send questions or requests to your professors, group instructors, fellow students, and program managers. Our faculty and staff respond in a timely manner. 5

MST CURRICULUMbE EQUIPPED TO SUCCEEDNortheastern Universitys Master of Science in Taxation program has been specifically designed and structured for working professionals like you. To accommodate your schedule, there are six start dates available throughout the year that enable you to begin the program at your convenience. On average, most students spend from 15 to 20 hours a week studying. They make time in the evening, on weekends, and when traveling for business, or at other times that fit into their busy schedules. The MST program is comprised of 10 courses for a total of 30 credits, consisting of 15 credits of core courses and 15 credits of electives. Each course lasts five weeks.

RELEVANT AND CURRENT CURRICULUM DESIGNED bY TAxATION ExPERTSThe College of Business Administration has a distinguished history and a reputation for innovation. Our faculty members are prominent scholars and leaders in the field of accounting. Our learning approach focuses on the application of tax theory and principles so that students may develop the skills and knowledge required to thrive and succeed in the tax profession.

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CORE COURSESPractical and Relevant CurriculumAcquire thorough and current knowledge of the laws, regulations and other authority, concepts, and practices of the discipline through the online MST. The curriculum is updated regularly, and incorporates current tax legislation and trends.

FEDERAL TAx ISSUES AND ANALYSISGives a broad examination of tax authority as it guides action on tax issues including personal and business decisions. Examines the tax structure with a specific focus on the income and expenses for individual taxpayers. Emphasizes property transactions (including the calculation of basis, gain/loss, and the resulting tax treatment). Also incorporates tax planning and research related to these issues.

ESTATE AND GIFT TAxATIONFocuses on the study of the taxes common to the transfer of property and wealth. Topics include gift tax deductions and exclusions, estate valuation, state tax deductions and exemptions, and tax rates. Also explores planning opportunities for these wealth transfer taxes.

PARTNERS AND PARTNERSHIPSProvides an in-depth study of the tax issues related to one of the central flow-through entities, the partnership. The increasing popularity of flow-through entities as an organizational form has made an understanding of the tax issues related to this type of entity an important area of study for tax professionals. Topics include capital formation, operations, transactions between the partner and the partnership, distributions, sales of partnership interests, and liquidation of the partnership.

CORPORATIONS AND SHAREHOLDERSProvides an in-depth study of the tax issues related to the corporate form and the corresponding tax implications for its shareholders. Given the importance of corporations in the federal income tax system, an understanding of the tax issues related to this type of business is essential for tax professionals. Topics include capital formation and structure, the operations of the corporation, distributions, dividends and redemptions, sales and liquidations, and taxable and tax-free reorganizations.

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TAx RESEARCH METHODOLOGYProvides an opportunity for students to develop and enhance their tax research skills. Success as a tax professional often hinges on the ability to find solutions effectively and efficiently. In addition to covering the creation of various sources of tax authority, also introduces students to a variety of research resources. Students are required to complete written research reports.

TAx PRACTICE, PROCEDURE, AND ETHICSInvestigates the procedures used in dealing with the Internal Revenue Service, with an emphasis on practitioner responsibilities. Reviews the organization of the IRS, filing requirements, appeal procedures, civil/criminal statutes, assessments, and protests. Also examines a study of the value and moral judgments inherent in the field of taxation including client confidentiality, disclosure of false or misleading information, and advice counter to the law or public good.

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ELECTIVE COURSESChoose Your ElectivesTo complete the online MST program, you are required to take five elective courses.

ADVANCED FLOw-THROUGH ENTITIESOffers an in-depth look at the tax consequences of businesses formed as flow-through entities (including partnerships, S corporations, and LLCs). Discusses allocation rules, liability sharing rules, disguised sales rules, partnership debt workouts, the S corporation election, and tax treatment of shareholders in an S corporation.

INCOME TAxATION OF TRUSTS AND ESTATESExamines the general rules for the taxation of estates and trusts. Topics include trusts that distribute current income only, grantor trusts, irrevocable trusts, charitable vehicles, income in respect of a decedent, estates and trusts that may accumulate income or may distribute corpus, and treatments of excess distributions and beneficiaries.

FINANCIAL PLANNING FOR INSURANCESurveys insurance products used for financial planning. Topics include life, accident, health, disability, long-term care, homeowner, auto, and personal liability, with emphasis on personal risk management and the use of insurance products in the financial planning process.

INTERNATIONAL TAxATION: INbOUND TRANSACTIONSAddresses the taxation of foreign individuals or corporations receiving income from sources, or conducting business, in the United States. With the globalization of the economy, a greater number of taxpayers must consider the impact of international taxation. Topics include the sourcing of income, taxation of passive income, taxation of income connected to a U.S. trade or business, branch-level taxes, issues of foreign-owned U.S. corporations, income tax treaties, and transfer pricing.

FINANCIAL PLANNING FOR INVESTMENTSSurveys the investment products that can be used for financial planning. Emphasis is on constructing the investment plan, the investment policy statement, the asset allocation strategy, and implementation recommendations.

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INTERNATIONAL TAxATION: OUTbOUND TRANSACTIONSExamines the federal taxation of U.S. individuals receiving income from sources or conducting business in foreign jurisdictions. An increase in the number of U.S. individuals and corporations operating in other countries has enhanced the importance of an understanding of international transactions for tax professionals. Examines sourcing of income, allocation and apportionment of deductions, foreign tax credits, taxation of U.S. citizens and residents abroad, controlled federal corporations, passive foreign investment companies, foreign currency translations and transactions, and special entities.

RETIREMENT PLANSExamines employee benefit plans including requirements for qualification, funding, coverage, and distribution requirements. Discusses a variety of plans including pension, profit-sharing, CODAs, IRAs, SEPs, TSAs, and stock plans.

STATE AND LOCAL TAxATIONAddresses the most common types of taxes imposed by state and local governments. Examines state and local income, sales, excise, property, and city taxes. Emphasis is on the underlying principles governing the application of each type of tax and the interrelationships where they exist.

TAx ACCOUNTING FOR INCOME TAxES PLANNING FOR ESTATE TAx ISSUESInvestigates the reporting of uncertain positions and accounting treatment accorded current and deferred income tax liabilities and expenses. Topics include accounting for uncertain tax positions, accounting methods and periods (particularly in cases where the accounting and tax records differ), special elections available to taxpayers, installment reporting, inventory methods, long-term contract accounting, and cash vs. accrual reporting. Investigates the reporting of uncertain positions and accounting treatment accorded current and deferred income tax liabilities and expenses. Topics include accounting for uncertain tax positions, accounting methods and periods (particularly in cases where the accounting and tax records differ), special elections available to taxpayers, installment reporting, inventory methods, long-term contract accounting, and cash vs. accrual reporting.

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DISTINGUISHED FACULTYAcademic Achievement Combined with Real-world ExperienceThe faculty members at Northeastern Universitys College of business Administration are prominent scholars and leaders in their fields. The majority of our faculty members are Northeastern alumni who are high-level professionals from our network of accounting and law firms. The wealth of expertise they bring to the classroom reinforces and extends your learning experience and ensures that we address the most relevant issues affecting tax professionals today.Timothy Gagnon Assistant Academic Specialist of Accounting JD, Boston College Law School Professor Gagnon is a partner of the Coleman & Gagnon, a practice covering personal law, corporate, and taxation areas, including estate planning and administration, probate, nonprofit organizations, taxation, corporate governance and entity structuring. He worked as an attorney for Jursek, Dennis & Gagnon, LLP; Peabody & Arnold; and Adler, Pollack & Sheehan Incorporated. Professor Gagnon is a CPA and worked for several public accounting firms, including Grant Thornton and Donald L. Perlroth & Company. Professor Gagnon is a member of several professional organizations, including the American, Massachusetts, Boston, and Rhode Island Bar Associations; the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants; and the Massachusetts and Connecticut Society of Certified Public Accountants. Michaele L. Morrow Assistant Professor of Accounting Ph.D. in Accounting, Texas Tech University Before joining the College of Business Administration faculty at Northeastern University, Professor Morrow was a senior accountant for Johnson & Sheldon, P.C. in Amarillo, Texas. While there, she audited companies in various industries but specialized in financial institutions. She also has a wide variety of experience in taxation, preparing returns for individuals, corporations and trusts. Her academic experience includes work as a graduate part-time instructor at Texas Tech University, teaching Financial Accounting and Income Taxation courses. Professor Morrow is a CPA in the State of Texas. She is also a member of several professional organizations, including American Accounting Association, American Institute of CPAs, and the Texas Society of CPAs. Timothy J. Rupert Professor of Accounting, James Carey Fellow and Golemme Administrative Chair PhD in Accounting, Pennsylvania State University Professor Rupert is a member of the editorial board for the Advances in Accounting Education. Professor Ruperts research interests are cognitive and decision making processes of taxpayers and tax practitioners. His research uses behavioral methodologies to examine the impact of changes in the structure of the tax system on decision making and fairness perceptions.

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STUDENT SUPPORT NETwORkFurther Your Academic SuccessYour success is the goal of every member of the College of business Administrations team. we have developed a multi-level network that supports your MST experience.

Enrollment Advisor

FACULTYNortheasterns faculty develops the curriculum and works directly with your small group instructor to ensure that the content and delivery of each course is of the highest quality.

Student Advisor Technical Support Small Group Instructor Faculty

STUDENT ADVISORYour Student Advisor is available to address concerns or questions you may have during the program. He or she is available from your first course until graduation, providing you with registration assistance and administrative support.

ENROLLMENT ADVISORYour Enrollment Advisor can answer your questions about the program and the enrollment process, and will help you assemble an effective application package for review by the enrollment committee.

TECHNICAL SUPPORT TEAMThe technical support team provides round-the-clock live technical support to make your online experience as technically seamless and convenient as possible. Their goal is to provide you with helpful and friendly advice to resolve your hardware and software problems.

SMALL GROUP INSTRUCTORYour small group instructor acts as the liaison between you and the faculty. Your small group instructor will engage and challenge you. He or she is available to provide support and coaching at a personalized level that be difficult to obtain in other MST programs. 12

Candidates whose undergraduate instruction was not conducted in English need to submit official TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE academic scores* For candidates not meeting all enrollment requirements, the enrollment committee may consider supplemental documentation, including official GMAT test scores.

STEP 2 - CONTACT AN ENROLLMENT ADVISOR TO bEGIN THE APPLICATION PROCESS: Walk you step-by-step through the application process Determine which start date best fits your plans Address any concerns or questions you may have

STEP 3 - COMPLETE THE APPLICATION PACkAGE wITH THE FOLLOwING: Three (3) professional letters of recommendation One (1) essay Current resume Transcript(s) from each college/university and/or graduate school you attended International transcripts must be translated and WES evaluation provided Non-refundable $100 U.S. application fee

APPLICATION PROCESSTAkE THE NExT STEP TOwARD DISTINCTIONAt Northeastern University, we are committed to your success. We therefore require that candidates seeking enrollment to the online MST program meet the following criteria and submit the following documentation.

STEP 4 - SUbMIT YOUR COMPLETED APPLICATION:Only complete application packages will be reviewed by the enrollment committee. To request an application package or to begin the application process, please contact an Enrollment Advisor. In the U.S. and Canada: 1.866.890.0347 Ext. 3558 International calls: +1.647.723.6681 Ext. 3558

STEP 1 - ENSURE YOU MEET ALL ENROLLMENT REQUIREMENTS: Undergraduate degree from an accredited institution of higher learning Undergraduate GPA must be 3.25 or higher on a scale of 4.0 or GMAT score required Undergraduate or graduate course in taxation with a grade of 3.0 or higher on a scale of 4.0 A minimum of two (2) years of tax experience including one busy season or hold the following credentials: JD, CPA, CFP, or Enrolled Agent

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COMPUTER REQUIREMENTSMINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR PC USERS: Operating System: Windows 98/2000/NT/XP RAM: 128 MB recommended Free Disk Space: 100 MB recommended CPU Speed: 266 MHz (500 MHz recommended) Modem: DSL or cable modem recommended Audio: Sound card and speakers Browser: Internet Explorer version 6.0 or higher Also recommended: Firefox 2.x

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR MAC USERS: Operating System: Macintosh OS 9 or higher RAM: 128 MB recommended Free Disk Space: 100 MB recommended CPU Speed: Power Macintosh or higher Modem: DSL or cable modem recommended Audio: Sound card and speakers Browser: Firefox 2.x Also recommended: Mozilla 1.2 or higher

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FREQUENTLY ASkED QUESTIONSGet AnswersHere are some of the most frequently asked questions from prospective Northeastern online MST students. If you have any questions that we havent answered, please contact us. An Enrollment Advisor is available to discuss the program with you.

GENERAL FAQSHow much does the program cost? Please refer to the tuition and fees supplement for the most current information, or speak to an Enrollment Advisor. How much full-time work experience do I need? The enrollment committee looks for applicants with at least two (2) years of professional tax work experience including one busy season. Do I need an undergraduate degree in business in order to apply? No, you need an undergraduate or a graduate course in taxation to apply to the online MST program. Will my diploma specify that this is an online degree? No. Your diploma will be the same as the on-campus MST diploma from Northeastern University.

How is the MST program accredited? Northeastern University is accredited by AACSB International.

PROGRAM AND CURRICULUM FAQSHow long is the program? The coursework can be completed in 16 months depending on the start date. Your Enrollment Advisor will assist you with the enrollment calendar and highlight the unique benefits of each start date. How many credits and courses do I need to take to graduate? To earn your MST, you must complete 30 semester hours of credit and achieve a 3.0 or higher grade point average. This translates to 10 courses to complete the degree.

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What does an average week look like for a student enrolled in the online MST program at Northeastern University? This program is designed for the working professional who must balance the demands of work, home, and study. On average, most students spend 15 to 20 hours each week studying, participating in the online class discussions, and collaborating on discussion boards, as well as working on team projects and preparing individual assignments. When do I start the program? There are six start dates available each year. An Enrollment Advisor will be able to explain the benefits of various start dates and help you select the date that works best for you. Can I take more than one class at a time? We have carefully structured the program to optimize your success as a business professional and online student. Students take only one course at a time so that they can place their complete focus on one subject area while building on the knowledge they obtained from previous courses. Can I take time off during the program? We understand that you may face a situation where you require time off from the program. Depending on your circumstances, Northeastern University will work with you to determine the best solution on a case-by-case basis.

What is the typical class size in the online MST? You will be in a group of no more than 20 students. Do you accept transfer credits or grant credits based on work experience and certifications? No waiver or transfer credits will be granted. Whom do I talk to if I have more questions or if I want to apply? Please call an Enrollment Advisor at 1.866.890.0347 Ext. 3558 (U.S. and Canada) or +1.647.723.6681 Ext. 3558 (International).

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NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY

NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITYS COLLEGE OF bUSINESS ADMINISTRATIONEstablished in 1922, the Northeastern College of Business Administration offers undergraduate, graduate, and executive programs that have launched or accelerated successful business careers for our graduates ever since.

FIND OUT FOR YOURSELF wHAT SETS NORTHEASTERN APARTIf you are serious about taking your career to the next level, an online MST from Northeastern can help set you apart as a leader. You can find out more by visiting our website at taxation.neu.edu or by calling an Enrollment Advisor at 1.866.890.0347 Ext. 3558.

THE ALUMNI NETwORkGraduates of Northeastern University have gone on to enjoy successful careers as leaders of multinational corporations, as researchers who develop new technologies, as leaders in national politics, and as faculty members at universities across the United States. As a student of Northeastern, you too can enjoy the benefits of a wide network of your fellow students making personal and professional connections that can last a lifetime.

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U.S. and Canada: 1.866.890.0347 Ext. 3558 International: +1.647.723.6681 Ext. 3558 Email: info@northeasternonlinemst.com taxation.neu.edu