Graduate Diploma
The Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting is a graduate diploma that builds on your existing knowledge of the accounting profession.
The Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting is a graduate diploma that builds on your existing knowledge of the accounting profession. This 1-year full-time course will prime you with the skills and knowledge to enter the CPA program to become a Certified Practicing Accountant (CPA).
Through a combination of face-to-face and virtual learning, you'll cover the key knowledge required for membership to Australia's primary recognised accounting body. With support from top UNSW academics and tutors, you'll develop a thorough understanding of financial reporting, ethics, leadership and strategy to round out your skill set.
This degree is also a great option if you are wanting the become a Certified Practicing Accountant or CPA. A CPA is a special qualification to mark a high level of professional competence and is managed by an external body, CPA Australia. We've got more information about what is a CPA and how this relates to your study and professional opportunities once you've graduated.
This graduate diploma is ideal for professionals seeking additional support to obtain CPA membership and accelerate their entry into the workforce as an accountant, financial reporter or tax professional.
Direct path to CPA accreditation
Unlike many professional accounting courses, the Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting (CPA) at UNSW teaches the content you'll require for CPA accreditation content directly to students instead of self-directed learning.
Industry aligned
This diploma guides you through the core knowledge areas required to enter the accounting profession in Australia, with your choice of electives including Financial Risk Management, Digital Finance and Australian Taxation.
You'll study at UNSW Business School, ranked #1 in Australia for Accounting and Finance.* You'll join a diverse community of students, academics and industry professionals.
You'll grow your business knowledge, communication and problem-solving skills, and build leadership and cultural competence - attractive qualities for any professional entering the workforce in Australia or abroad.
At UNSW, we provide additional support for international students who want to study and work in Australia after graduation. If you're an international student you'll also have access to professional development opportunities to help you understand workplace culture in Australia and get a foothold in your chosen industry.
*QS World University Rankings by subject, 2023
For entry into this program, you must have a qualifying undergraduate or postgraduate degree. You must also meet the foundation competency requirement for entry into the CPA program. You can contact CPA Australia
Relevant fields
Examples of relevant fields include, but are not restricted to:
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If you're completing an Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW HSC or equivalent), you do not need to provide anything extra to prove your proficiency. Your qualification will be used as evidence of your English proficiency.
If you do need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, this will be indicated in your application. You can prove this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College's Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
If you are applying for a Masters' degree, up to four courses, or 24 Units of Credit (UOC) may be awarded based on your previous business studies (bachelor or higher). You'll be notified of the credits in your official letter of offer.
For entry into most courses at UNSW, international students may need to meet minimum academic and English language entry requirements
To study the Graduate Certificate in Professional Accounting (CPA), you must have an internationally recognised undergraduate or postgraduate degree in a relevant field. You must also meet the foundation competency requirement for entry into the CPA program. You can contact CPA Australia to request an eligibility assessment, which you'll then submit as part of your application.
In exceptional circumstances, applicants with extensive professional work experience in relevant fields may be considered.
Relevant fields
Examples of relevant fields include, but are not restricted to:
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on whether you are from an English-speaking background or non-English speaking background. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If English is not your first language, you'll need to provide proof of your English proficiency before you can be given an offer to study at UNSW. You can do this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College's Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
If you are applying for a Masters' degree, up to four courses, or 24 Units of Credit (UOC) may be awarded based on your previous business studies (bachelor or higher). You'll be notified of the credits in your official letter of offer.
A Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting provides a clear pathway to accreditation and opens up a range of career opportunities in the finance and accounting sectors. As a certified accountant, you can explore jobs across the public, private and not-for-profit sectors in Australia and overseas.
UNSW Business School's Career Accelerator program readies students for work by creating opportunities for students to connect with industry professionals and gain hands-on experience in their chosen field through internships, mentoring and academic support.
The Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting is ideal if you're interested in a career as a: