
Building a Better Business: Kenneth Mercadante ’18
When Kenneth Mercadante ’18 graduated from the business administration program at Cairn, he had in mind to one day be a business owner. He did not, however, have any intention
At Cairn University, the Master of Science in Accounting and Data Analytics equips you with advanced technical skills, a strong ethical foundation, and an analytical mindset for today’s data‑driven financial landscape. You’ll blend rigorous accounting principles with practical analytics tools so you can interpret complex data, drive strategic decision‑making, and lead with integrity.
If you want to graduate career‑ready and grounded in meaningful values that set you apart in business, nonprofit, and ministry contexts, this program is for you.
Both learning modalities share the same Christ‑centered foundation and industry‑focused outcomes. Pick the format that fits your life and learning preferences.
Whether a working professional, a busy parent, or you are just someone who thrives learning through a virtual model, our online program includes:
If you are ready to take the next step in your career, our in-person counseling program might be right for you if you appreciate:
The Accounting and Data Analytics (MS) program is designed to equip graduates with a deep understanding of how data analytics is transforming the accounting profession. Tailored for current and aspiring accounting professionals, the program blends advanced accounting knowledge with state-of-the-art analytical tools and techniques. Students develop the skills needed to interpret complex data, generate strategic insights, and support high-stakes decisions in public accounting, corporate finance, and advisory services. Graduates will be well-prepared to lead in a dynamic, technology-driven global business environment.
The program offers courses in:
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Graduates are prepared for roles across public accounting, corporate finance, nonprofit, and government contexts. Common outcomes include:
Public Accounting: Audit/assurance associate, tax associate, data analytics specialist in CPA firms; progression to senior, manager, and partner track.
Corporate & Managerial Accounting: Staff/senior accountant, cost accountant, revenue accountant, and FP&A analyst supporting budgeting, forecasting, and performance analysis.
Data & Analytics: Financial data analyst, business intelligence analyst, analytics translator supporting dashboarding, KPI design, and decision modeling.
Risk, Controls & Compliance: Internal auditor, SOX/compliance analyst, IT audit/controls analyst focusing on data‑driven risk assessment.
Forensic & Fraud: Fraud examiner, forensic accounting analyst assisting investigations, litigation support, and anomaly detection.
Nonprofit & Government: Grants/accounting analyst, governmental auditor, and program finance roles with mission‑driven organizations and agencies.
Leadership Pathways: With experience and credentials (e.g., CPA, CMA, CISA), advancement to accounting manager, controller, director of analytics, or CFO.
The tuition rates are posted on this page.
Cairn University also partners with many organizations and offers tuition discounts. Tuition discounts are also available for those working in Christian schools. Please contact us to find out if your organization has a partnership with Cairn University.
Additional information on scholarships, grants, and loans is available from this page.
All Cairn University students must have professed a faith in Jesus Christ as Savior as evidenced by providing a personal testimony that details this faith. By submitting an application, students acknowledge the University’s doctrinal position and standards of conduct as outlined in the Foundational Statements. Below are the admission requirements:
Cairn University is regionally accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
Cairn Online has been approved to participate in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA), which regionally oversees postsecondary online education.

When Kenneth Mercadante ’18 graduated from the business administration program at Cairn, he had in mind to one day be a business owner. He did not, however, have any intention

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