Master of Professional Accounting

Postgraduate | 2026

Degree hero banner
Mode icon
Mode
On Campus
Start date icon
Start date
February, July
Duration icon
Duration
1.5 year(s) full-time
Program code icon
Program code
MAPAC
Study as icon
Study as
Full-time
Fees
Indicative annual fees
$52,200
Prerequisites icon
Prerequisite
None
Assumed knowledge icon
Assumed knowledge
Knowledge of mathematics is a good background for many courses in this program
English Language Requirements icon
English language requirements
IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6 IELTS Listening 6 IELTS Speaking 6 IELTS Writing 6 Equivalent English qualifications
CRICOS code icon
CRICOS code
115941K
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Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfil 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.

  • A completed bachelor (AQF level 7) or bachelor honours (AQF level 8) degree or equivalent from a recognised higher education institution; OR
  • A completed nested or related graduate certificate (AQF level 8) or higher or equivalent from a recognised higher education institution.

This degree requires a Grade Point Average (GPA) equivalent to an Adelaide University 4.5 on a 7-point scale for entry.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

  • IELTS Overall 6.5
  • IELTS Reading 6
  • IELTS Listening 6
  • IELTS Speaking 6
  • IELTS Writing 6

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

Why Master of Professional Accounting?

Save businesses and individuals from financial difficulties with your accounting expertise. If you already have a degree and would like to enter the field of accounting, the Master of Professional Accounting will give you with the skills you need to succeed.

Gain an understanding of accounting practice and develop your analytical, management, communication and problem-solving skills. Learn from industry-experienced teaching staff who collaborate with leading professional bodies. Graduate with a modern and in-demand skill set, ready to meet the dynamic and ever-changing needs of the accounting profession.

program overview

Overview

Develop your analytical, business management and problem-solving skills with Adelaide University’s Master of Professional Accounting. You will build a diverse knowledgebase in accounting management, finance, commercial law, taxation law and auditing. You’ll also learn fundamental concepts, issues and benefits of information systems and technologies – preparing you for today’s business environment.

Choose from interesting electives to suit your career aspirations and preferences. Broaden your industry networks, studying alongside a diverse cohort of aspiring professionals and learning from industry-experienced teaching staff. Discover a world of opportunities in accounting, tax, financial management and public practice.

What you'll learn

In 1.5 years of full-time study, you’ll develop the skillset needed to commence a professional accounting program.

In your first year, you’ll explore topics including analytical tools for business, economics, accounting and foundational principles of finance. You’ll also discover implications and uses of accounting information systems and corporate law. Learn contemporary accounting management techniques and master financial reporting.

In your last six months, you’ll consolidate your skills in financial accounting, auditing and assurance. You’ll also have the option to choose an elective course in an area of accounting that aligns with your career aspirations or interests – including sustainability.

This degree offers flexible hybrid delivery, which includes a mix of on-campus and online study.

Design a study path that works for you

This degree is part of a stackable set of qualifications, meaning your study choices are flexible. If your goals shift, you can exit after six months of study with a standalone Graduate Certificate or after one year with a Graduate Diploma qualification. 

You can also begin your studies with a shorter qualification like the six-month Graduate Certificate and continue on to complete the Graduate Diploma (one year) or full master’s degree. 

What courses you'll study

Complete 72 units comprising:

  • 24 units for all Core courses, and
  • 42 units for all Discipline courses, and
  • 6 units for Electives

Complete 24 units for ALL of the following:

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Accounting Concepts and Methods
Course code
ACCT5001
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Principles of Finance
Course code
BAFI5000
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Business Statistics
Course code
BAFI5015
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Economic Principles
Course code
ECON5001
Units
6

Course name Course code Units
Year 1
Semester 1
Course name
Accounting Concepts and Methods
Course code
ACCT5001
Units
6
Course name
Principles of Finance
Course code
BAFI5000
Units
6
Course name
Business Statistics
Course code
BAFI5015
Units
6
Course name
Economic Principles
Course code
ECON5001
Units
6
Semester 2
Course name
Management Accounting Concepts and Techniques
Course code
ACCT5003
Units
6
Course name
Accounting Information Production and Analytics
Course code
ACCT5005
Units
6
Course name
Intermediate Financial Reporting
Course code
BAFI5001
Units
6
Course name
Commercial and Business Law
Course code
BUSI5097
Units
6
Year 2
Semester 1
Course name
Auditing and Assurance Services
Course code
ACCT6001
Units
6
Course name
Advanced Financial Accounting
Course code
ACCT6003
Units
6
Course name
Taxation Law and Policy
Course code
BUSI6055
Units
6
Course name
Course code
-
Units
6

Complete 42 units for ALL of the following:

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Management Accounting Concepts and Techniques
Course code
ACCT5003
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Accounting Information Production and Analytics
Course code
ACCT5005
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Auditing and Assurance Services
Course code
ACCT6001
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Advanced Financial Accounting
Course code
ACCT6003
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Intermediate Financial Reporting
Course code
BAFI5001
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Commercial and Business Law
Course code
BUSI5097
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Taxation Law and Policy
Course code
BUSI6055
Units
6

Course name Course code Units
Year 1
Semester 1
Course name
Accounting Concepts and Methods
Course code
ACCT5001
Units
6
Course name
Principles of Finance
Course code
BAFI5000
Units
6
Course name
Business Statistics
Course code
BAFI5015
Units
6
Course name
Economic Principles
Course code
ECON5001
Units
6
Semester 2
Course name
Management Accounting Concepts and Techniques
Course code
ACCT5003
Units
6
Course name
Accounting Information Production and Analytics
Course code
ACCT5005
Units
6
Course name
Intermediate Financial Reporting
Course code
BAFI5001
Units
6
Course name
Commercial and Business Law
Course code
BUSI5097
Units
6
Year 2
Semester 1
Course name
Auditing and Assurance Services
Course code
ACCT6001
Units
6
Course name
Advanced Financial Accounting
Course code
ACCT6003
Units
6
Course name
Taxation Law and Policy
Course code
BUSI6055
Units
6
Course name
Course code
-
Units
6

Complete 6 units comprising:

  • 6 units from Program electives

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Strategic Management Accounting
Course code
ACCT6000
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Forensic Accounting
Course code
ACCT6004
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Sustainability Accounting
Course code
ACCT6006
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Public Sector Accountability
Course code
ACCTX600
Units
6

Course name Course code Units
Year 1
Semester 1
Course name
Accounting Concepts and Methods
Course code
ACCT5001
Units
6
Course name
Principles of Finance
Course code
BAFI5000
Units
6
Course name
Business Statistics
Course code
BAFI5015
Units
6
Course name
Economic Principles
Course code
ECON5001
Units
6
Semester 2
Course name
Management Accounting Concepts and Techniques
Course code
ACCT5003
Units
6
Course name
Accounting Information Production and Analytics
Course code
ACCT5005
Units
6
Course name
Intermediate Financial Reporting
Course code
BAFI5001
Units
6
Course name
Commercial and Business Law
Course code
BUSI5097
Units
6
Year 2
Semester 1
Course name
Auditing and Assurance Services
Course code
ACCT6001
Units
6
Course name
Advanced Financial Accounting
Course code
ACCT6003
Units
6
Course name
Taxation Law and Policy
Course code
BUSI6055
Units
6
Course name
Course code
-
Units
6

Ready to apply?

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Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

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Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

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Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.

How to Apply

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

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: 

  • Case studies  
  • Essays and assignments  
  • Examinations  
  • Group projects  
  • Internships and placements  
  • Practicals  
  • Presentations  
  • Reports and project documentations 
  • Research projects 
  • Workplace and classroom contributions. 
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