Earning your tax degree online is a convenient way to pursue a career in taxation. Several reputable universities offer this specialized degree online, including New York University (NYU). Once you complete your tax degree program, you are qualified to work as a tax examiner, tax collector or revenue agent.
Degree Programs
An online tax degree is most commonly offered as a master's program. Those pursuing a tax degree usually have completed a bachelor's degree in finance, economics, accounting, mathematics or another similar field. NYU offers an online Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree in taxation that is identical to the same program offered on campus. Thomas Jefferson School of Law also offers a Masters Degree in Taxation. Both schools are accredited by the American Bar Association. A master's degree in taxation requires around 24 credits. Students should be able to complete the degree in two years if they are enrolled full-time. Because many students using the online option have limited availability in their schedules for classes, they may be enrolled part-time, in which case the degree program may take four years to complete.
Coursework
Students can typically focus their studies within the degree program to specialize in an area of taxation. For example, the NYU tax degree offers students the opportunity to concentrate in one of five areas: business taxation, estate planning, general taxation, international taxation or tax policy. Required courses for the online tax degree may include Taxation of Property Transactions, Income Tax, Tax Procedure, Tax Penalties or Public Finance. Other courses are selected based on the area in which the student plans to concentrate. For example, a student focusing on estate planning might take Income Tax of Trusts and Taxation for Charitable Gifts as part of their course load. Because courses are conducted online, students need to have a computer and should consider investing in a web camera and microphone to interact with their professors and peers.
Career Options
An online degree program in taxation enables you to keep working in your current job while furthering your education. Once your degree is complete, you are qualified to work as a tax examiner, revenue agent or tax collector. Some graduates work at an existing company or firm, while others open their own businesses. Individuals with a Master of Taxation might also apply to work with the tax issues of a specific corporation. Tax preparers and examiners should expect to work long hours during the first quarter of the year, when most individuals and businesses submit their federal and state taxes.
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