Undergraduate | 2026

Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Financial Planning

Start date

February, July

Campus

Adelaide City

Duration

3 year(s) full-time

Mode

Hybrid

Program code

BCOMM

Study as

Full time or part time

Indicative fees

Commonwealth Supported

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible for admission, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfill any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

Secondary education (Year 12)

Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Completion of an award from a registered training organisation (RTO) at Certificate IV (AQF level 4) or higher.

Higher education study

Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) in a higher education award program.

Work and life experience

Completion of an Adelaide University approved enabling, pathway or bridging program; OR
Achieved a pass result in the Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT); OR
Qualify for special entry

Note:

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025, to commence study in 2026.

Please note that entry requirements for this degree are provisional and subject to change.

Why Bachelor of Commerce?

Want to help individuals and businesses manage their wealth, tax and financial risk? Interested in developing financial plans that allow clients to reach their goals? This degree will give you the skills to excel as a finance professional. You'll consider current wealth, income and lifestyle aspirations to provide sound financial advice. With our strong practical focus and access to cutting-edge technology, you’ll learn to craft visionary financial plans that meet legal and regulatory requirements. Developed in consultation with industry, this degree will give you the tools to succeed in a changing business landscape.

Overview

Build the key knowledge and practical skills required for a professional career as a financial adviser. Develop your critical thinking, problem solving and decision-making capabilities, preparing you for work across government, private and not-for-profit sectors. You’ll study core business topics including accounting, finance, economics, analytics and management. From your second year, dive into insurance and risk management: ethics, regulations and financial advice, estate planning and taxation law. You’ll also be able to tailor your studies with future-focused elective courses. In your final year, complete an industry placement where you’ll be able to explore your future employment prospects. In three years, graduate with the skillset of a modern financial planner.

Key features

Learn from top academics in financial planning.
Build foundational business knowledge in marketing, economics, accounting, management and company law.
Personalise your studies with a range of electives including international exchanges.
Benefit from a degree developed in consultation with industry.
Access simulated financial trading environments used by leading banks and investment firms.
Complete an industry-aligned placement in your final year.

What you'll learn

In your first year, you’ll build a solid grasp of business fundamentals applicable to a range of careers. Learn about financial and managerial accounting, modern financial principles in business, data and analytical frameworks in economics, roles and functions of managers, and financial reporting.

In your second and third year, dive into specialised financial planning courses including superannuation and retirement planning, risk management strategies, predictive and visual analytics, investment portfolios and estate planning legislation and policy. Choose from a range of business elective courses on topics including cryptocurrency and alternative investments, such as venture capital, real estate and artwork. You’ll also complete a professional placement in your chosen field of study to enhance your employment prospects.

Majors

The Bachelor of Commerce is also available with majors in the following:

Accounting
Banking and Finance
Business Analytics
Property.

You can also study the Bachelor of Commerce with a double major in any of the following:

Accounting/Banking and Finance
Banking and Finance/Business Analytics
Accounting/Business Analytics
Property/Banking and Finance.

What courses you'll study

Complete 144 units comprising:

66 units for Core courses, and
48 units for one Major from Major, and
12 units for all Work integrated learning, and
18 units for Electives

Complete 66 units comprising:

18 units for all Common core, and
48 units for all Program core

	Course code	Units
Course name UG Common Core 1	Course code AUXX1000	Units 6
Course name UG Common Core 2	Course code AUXX2000	Units 6
Course name UG Common Core 3	Course code AUXX3000	Units 6

	Course code	Units
Course name Accounting for Decision Makers	Course code ACCT1000	Units 6
Course name Business Finance	Course code BAFI1001	Units 6
Course name Business Law	Course code BUSI1001	Units 6
Course name Management, Organisations and Leadership	Course code BUSI1002	Units 6
Course name Data Analytics	Course code BUSI1008	Units 6
Course name Predictive and Visual Analytics for Managers and Consultants	Course code BUSI1009	Units 6
Course name Principles of Economics	Course code ECON1000	Units 6
Course name Business Applications for Artificial Intelligence	Course code ARTI3000	Units 6

Complete 48 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Introduction to Financial Planning	Course code BAFI1000	Units 6
Course name Superannuation	Course code BAFI2001	Units 6
Course name Risk Management and Insurance	Course code BAFI2002	Units 6
Course name Portfolio Theory and Management	Course code BAFI2007	Units 6
Course name Regulations, Ethics and Financial Advice	Course code BAFI2011	Units 6
Course name Applied Financial Planning	Course code BAFI3000	Units 6
Course name Estate Planning	Course code BUSI3011	Units 6
Course name Taxation Law	Course code LAWS3003	Units 6

Complete 12 units for ALL of the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name Business Practicum	Course code BUSI1900	Units 6
	Course name Business Clinic	Course code BUSI2902	Units 6

Complete 18 units for either of the following:

18 units for all Free electives, or
18 units from Program electives

	Course code	Units
Course name Personal Finance	Course code BAFI1002	Units 6
Course name Financial Modelling	Course code BAFI2009	Units 6
Course name Behavioural Finance	Course code BAFI2010	Units 6
Course name Strategic Financial Analysis	Course code BAFI2012	Units 6
Course name Alternative Investments	Course code BAFI3006	Units 6
Course name Global Wealth Management	Course code BAFI3007	Units 6
Course name Blockchain Crypto and Big Data	Course code BAFI3014	Units 6

Career outcomes

You’ll be qualified for rewarding careers that combine financial expertise with personal interaction, innovation and strategic planning. There are opportunities in financial institutions, investment banks, superannuation and insurance funds and financial advisory firms. You could be a superannuation consultant, helping clients invest and meet retirement goals. You might be an insurance broker, expertly navigating through insurance choices to secure the best terms. Perhaps you’ll help tech startups shoot for the stars.

You could also be a:

Financial planner or adviser
Client relationship manager
Estate planner
Investment adviser
Wealth manager.

Industry trends

Gartner’s Top 5 Priorities for CFOs in 2024 estimates 40% of finance roles will be new or significantly reshaped due to finance technology by 2025. What does this mean for you? Financial planning professionals with knowledge on the latest digital tools in finance will have a competitive advantage. Our curriculum has been developed in consultation with industry and includes courses on digital technologies that are shaping the future. You’ll graduate with the skills of a modern financial planning professional, prepared to navigate the fast-changing business world.

Accreditation

Adelaide University is working through relevant approvals for program accreditation ahead of students commencing at the institution in 2026.

How to apply

Find your program

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Check the requirements

Look out for any prerequisite or assumed knowledge courses. Some degrees may have additional entry requirements.

Consider your preferences

To prepare for your future and to maximise your success consider adding additional preferences.

How to apply

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025, to commence study in 2026.

Please note that entry requirements for this degree are provisional and subject to change.

If you want to start your studies earlier, consider applying to the University of Adelaide or UniSA now, and continue onto Adelaide University in 2026. Register your interest to stay informed.

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

From August 2025 you can apply as a domestic student for entry to Adelaide University in 2026.
Applications for 2026 will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs. A direct application process will be available for 100% online degrees at a later date. In the meantime, you could start your degree at UniSA or the University of Adelaide and continue at Adelaide University.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university.

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus.

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

Academic learning support, including after-hours support provided via Studiosity through live online chat assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities.
Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner (GP) to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, visa and work rights and academic policies and procedures.
An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission.

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

February for Semester 1  
July for Semester 2.

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view our Academic calendar. 

View all FAQs

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

Career advice and mentoring services
Personal counselling
LGBTQIA+ support
Academic support
Fees and finance help
Security services
Accommodation services
Common rooms
Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: