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Course snapshot

Domestic snapshot

  • Start Date

    March, July, October

  • Duration

    2 years full-time; 4 years part-time
    Depending on unit availabilities, previous study or work experience, students may be able to complete their degree in a shorter duration than indicated. 

  • Location

    Gold Coast, Online

  • Placement

    Yes  Learn more

  • Course abbreviation

    MPA (16 unit)

  • Course code

    1207045

  • Credit points

    192

  • Equivalent units

    16

  • Scholarships

  • Indicative fee

Please note, some locations may not have all intake periods available. See the full availability details for further information.

International snapshot

  • Start Date

    February, June, October

  • Duration

    2 years full-time; 4 years part-time

  • Location

    Gold Coast, Melbourne, Perth, Sydney

  • Placement

    Yes  Learn more

Please note, some locations may not have all intake periods available. See the full availability details for further information.

Overview

Accountants are vital to the operation and success of businesses and organisations at all levels and, not surprisingly, there is high demand for skilled accountants worldwide.

This CPA Australia and CA ANZ accredited course is designed for business professionals who are pursuing a career change as an accountant. It will also suit those already in the industry who need a recognised accounting qualification.

You'll become adept in complex accounting and business issues, and grow your expertise in financial management, accounting information systems, financial reporting, auditing, corporate governance and contemporary accounting standards and research.

Graduates are equipped to work in business, government and not-for-profit organisations in accounting, financial services and management positions. Advanced standing may apply to students who have completed relevant undergraduate and postgraduate study. 

Ishita in corporate attire smiling at camera

“It was a really wonderful experience. During my last exam I ended up getting a job here on the Gold Coast with an accounting firm."

The Southern Cross Model is a game-changer in higher education study.

Our students now engage in shorter, six-week unit structures designed around immersive and interactive learning experiences. The shorter unit structure gives students a greater sense of momentum as they achieve milestones quickly, resulting in increased student success rates, and course and teacher satisfaction. Lectures are a thing of the past - students will be engaged in active, interactive and discussion-based learning.

On-campus students experience a variety of teaching approaches including lectures, tutorials, online activities and video-linked or podcast virtual classes.

Our online study option is highly interactive and may include a combination of podcast or video-linked lectures, electronic study materials, workshops, online discussion forums and virtual classes.

The method of teaching and assessment may vary from unit to unit.

Learn more

Course Learning Outcomes express learning achievement in terms of what a student should know, understand and be able to do on completion of a course. These outcomes are aligned with the graduate attributes (GA).

Course Learning Outcome

GA1: Intellectual rigour

Critically evaluate and synthesise complex problems or theories from a discipline area to arrive at solutions with justifications.

GA2: Creativity

Develop innovative solutions to complex problems from a discipline area or within cooperative environments to reflect on self and team participation and performance.

GA3: Ethical practice

Critically evaluate challenging interpersonal, organisational and governance issues with consideration of their ethical and responsible implications.

GA4: Knowledge of a discipline

Demonstrate and apply advanced discipline knowledge and skills in a specialised management area with a global perspective.

GA5: Lifelong learning

Apply and develop discipline knowledge and skills using integrated research principles and methods of critical thinking, problem solving and leadership skills to complex management situations.

GA6: Communication and social skills

Prepare and deliver advanced disciplinary advice, knowledge and ideas on complex issues orally or through written communication for a business or public context.

GA7: Cultural competence

Apply advanced disciplinary knowledge and skills in situations that require a high level of responsible behaviour in various cultural contexts.

As part of this course, students may choose to undertake a 150-hour internship (equivalent to one unit) in either a paid or unpaid position. This practical experience, combined with theoretical understanding, enhances the learning experience for students. 
 
The pre-requisite unit, BUSN5002 Business Professional Practice, assists students to identify suitable roles and prepare an interview-standard job application. Access to a database of potential employers and positions and ongoing support from the dedicated Work Integrated Learning team is provided.

The MPA comprises a core sequence of units that meet the professional accounting educational requirements and includes study in the following areas: business accounting, accounting information systems, financial reporting, management accounting, economics, quantitative analysis, company and commercial law, finance, accounting, theory and research.

Students also study advanced topics in accounting such as taxation law and practice, auditing and assurance and corporate governance. Management skills are also honed through study of communications and a number of electives. A key feature of the MPA program is the opportunity to undertake a double-weighted industry research project that students can apply to their current or future workplace.

Location Teaching period
Gold CoastTerm  1, Term  3, Term  5
OnlineTerm  1
Location Teaching period Annual Fees CRICOS
Gold CoastTerm  1, Term  3, Term  5$31,920 ($3,990 per unit)078675A
MelbourneTerm  1, Term  3$36,320 ($4,540 per unit)081533M
PerthTerm  1, Term  3$36,320 ($4,540 per unit)081533M
SydneyTerm  1, Term  3$36,320 ($4,540 per unit)081533M

Tuition fees are in Australian dollars, and are subject to change, including annual increases over the duration of a course. Annual tuition fee is based on completing 8 units per year. In addition students are required to pay OSHC for the duration of their visa in advance. Non-tuition fee covers textbooks, stationery and excursions.

Career Outcomes

The global accounting profession has high employment demand, offering graduates the opportunity to seek employment in a range of industries in Australia and abroad.

Graduates are equipped to work in business, government and not-for-profit organisations in accounting, financial services and management positions. Management roles and activities undertaken by graduates include developing financial plans, preparing and certifying financial reports, conducting audits, advising company directors, shareholders and clients.

The Master of Professional Accounting fulfils the academic pre-requisites for registration as a professional accountant in Australia and is accredited by CPA Australia and Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ).

Graduates may also be eligible to apply for admission to the Institute of Public Accountants (IPA).

Requirements

We encourage you to apply for the courses you most want to study. If you are not eligible to enter your chosen course right now, our team will work with you to find the best pathway option.

Before applying, make sure you double check all entry requirements, gather required documentation and review the University’s Rules Relating to Awards, noting any specifics listed below.

Entry requirements

  1. Applicants for admission to candidature in the Master of Professional Accounting may be selected where they can demonstrate professional standing approved by the School Board to be equivalent to the requirements of Rule 2, Section 3.
  2. With reference to Schedule B in Rule 2, Section 1 the level of attainment should be at least equivalent to IELTS 6.5.

Language requirements

English language requirements apply to International applicants and other applicants whose previous study was undertaken in a language other than English. The minimum English language requirements for such applicants for entry to this course are as follows

CategoryScore
Overall Score6.5

Course requirements

To be eligible to receive the Master of Professional Accounting students must complete the equivalent of 16 units (192 credit points), comprising:

  •  14 core units (180 credit points), and
  •  1 equivalent elective unit (12 credit points).

Exit Awards

Students may be eligible to exit with the Graduate Diploma of Accounting after completing the equivalent of 8 units (96 credit points), comprising 8 core units.

Students may be eligible to exit with the Graduate Certificate in Accounting after completing the equivalent of 4 units (48 credit points), comprising 4 core units.

Other things to consider

Credit for Prior Learning, also referred to as ‘Advanced Standing’ or Recognition for Prior Learning (RPL), is the process of looking at your prior study and/or experience to assess if you can be awarded academic credit or gain entry to a course on the basis of your existing knowledge and skills.

Learn more


Course structure

Your course progression is in the recommended order you should complete your course in. It is important that you follow this to ensure you meet the course requirements. For further assistance see How to Enrol in Units using My Enrolment.

Students should use course progression information to select units specific to their course and enrol in these units using My Enrolment.

Current Students should select their units by checking the Handbook for the year of their enrolment as these may be different.

View Student Handbook

Unit CodeUnit TitleAvailableCredit pointsNotes

Complete the following units to satisfy the Requirements of the Award

First Year

ACCT5001Business Accounting
Term1,4
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Gold Coast
Term1,4
Term1,4
MelbourneN/A
Term1,4
Online
Term1,4
Term1,4
PerthN/A
Term1
SydneyN/A
Term1,4
BUSN5003Management Communication
Term1,3,5
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Gold Coast
Term1,3,5
Term1,3,5
MelbourneN/A
Term1,3
Online
Term1,3
Term1,3
PerthN/A
Term1,3
SydneyN/A
Term1,3
LEGL5001Legal Studies
Term2,5
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Gold Coast
Term2,5
Term2,5
MelbourneN/A
Term2,5
Online
Term2,5
Term2,5
PerthN/A
Term2,5
SydneyN/A
Term2,5
ECON5003Economics
Term3
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Gold Coast
Term3
Term3
Melbourne
Term3
Term3
Online
Term3
Term3
Perth
Term3
Term3
Sydney
Term3
Term3
Students may be eligible to exit with the Graduate Certificate in Accounting after completing the above 4 (four) units.
ISYS5004Accounting Information Systems and Processes
Term3
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Gold Coast
Term3
Term3
MelbourneN/A
Term3
Online
Term3
Term3
PerthN/A
Term3
SydneyN/A
Term3
STAT5001Business Analytics
Term1,3,5
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Gold Coast
Term1,3,5
Term1,3,5
Melbourne
Term1,3
Term1,3
Online
Term1,5
Term1,5
Perth
Term1,3
Term1,3
Sydney
Term1,3
Term1,3
Anti-requisitesECON5001 - Economics and Quantitative Analysis
ACCT6002Managerial Accounting
Term4
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Gold Coast
Term4
Term4
MelbourneN/A
Term4
Online
Term4
Term4
PerthN/A
Term4
SydneyN/A
Term4
Pre-requisitesACCT5001 - Business Accounting
ACCT6001Company and Financial Reporting
Term2,5
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Gold Coast
Term2,5
Term2,5
MelbourneN/A
Term2,5
Online
Term2,5
Term2,5
PerthN/A
Term2,5
SydneyN/A
Term2,5
Pre-requisitesACCT5001 - Business Accounting
Anti-requisitesACC00701 Accounting for Group Entities ACC00703 Business Financial Accounting
Students may be eligible to exit with the Graduate Diploma of Accounting after completing the above 8 (eight) units.
ACCT6005Taxation Law and Practice
Summer Term
Term5
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Gold Coast
Term5
Term5
MelbourneN/A
Summer Term
Term5
Online
Term5
Term5
PerthN/A
Summer Term
Term5
SydneyN/A
Summer Term
Term5
Enrolment informationIt is strongly recommended that you have an ability to read and navigate pieces of legislation applicable to Australian Law.

Second Year

Elective
Unit CodeUnit TitleNotes
BUSN6001Global Business
PROJ5001Project Management
MGMT6002The Positive Leader
BUSN6004Managing Information Systems
MGMT5002Organisational Behaviour
BUSN6005Strategy and Case Analysis
BUSN5002Business Professional Development
MRKT6002Digital Marketing
BUSN6007Business Internship
ACCT6004Finance
Term1,4
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Gold Coast
Term1,4
Term1,4
MelbourneN/A
Term1,4
Online
Term1
Term1
PerthN/A
Term1,4
SydneyN/A
Term1,4
ACCT6015Corporate Governance
Term2,5
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Gold Coast
Term2,5
Term2,5
MelbourneN/A
Term2,5
Online
Term2,5
Term2,5
PerthN/A
Term2,5
SydneyN/A
Term2,5
ACCT6006Contemporary Issues in Accounting Theory
Term3
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Gold Coast
Term3
Term3
MelbourneN/A
Term3
Online
Term3
N/A
PerthN/A
Term3
SydneyN/A
Term3
Pre-requisitesACCT6001 - Company and Financial Reporting
BUSN7003Industry Research Project
Dual Term2,4
24 Note 1
LocationDomesticInternational
Gold Coast
Dual Term4
Dual Term4
MelbourneN/A
Dual Term2,4
Online
Dual Term2,4
Dual Term2,4
PerthN/A
Dual Term2,4
SydneyN/A
Dual Term2,4
Pre-requisites72 credit points from masters level (AQF 9)
ACCT6003Professional Auditing
Summer Term
Term5
12
LocationDomesticInternational
Gold Coast
Term5
Term5
MelbourneN/A
Summer Term
Term5
Online
Term5
Term5
PerthN/A
Summer Term
Term5
SydneyN/A
Summer Term
Term5
Pre-requisitesACCT6001 - Company and Financial Reporting
Enrolment informationThis is an advanced unit. It is highly recommended that students take this unit after having completed an introductory Finance or Economics unit.


Note 1:

Double-weighted unit

Unit CodeUnit TitleNotes

Core Units

ACCT5001Business Accounting
BUSN5003Management Communication
LEGL5001Legal Studies
ECON5003Economics
Students may be eligible to exit with the Graduate Certificate in Accounting after completing the above 4 (four) units
STAT5001Business Analytics
ACCT6001Company and Financial Reporting
ISYS5004Accounting Information Systems and Processes
ACCT6002Managerial Accounting
Students may be eligible to exit with the Graduate Diploma of Accounting after completing the above 8 (eight) units
ACCT6004Finance
ACCT6006Contemporary Issues in Accounting Theory
ACCT6003Professional Auditing
ACCT6005Taxation Law and Practice
ACCT6015Corporate Governance
BUSN7003Industry Research Project Note 1

Unit CodeUnit TitleNotes
BUSN6001Global Business
PROJ5001Project Management
MGMT6002The Positive Leader
BUSN6004Managing Information Systems
MGMT5002Organisational Behaviour
BUSN6005Strategy and Case Analysis
BUSN5002Business Professional Development
MRKT6002Digital Marketing
BUSN6007Business Internship

Why Business at SCU

Top 8% worldwide

We're ranked in the top 8% of universities worldwide in Business and Economics

(THE World University Rankings 2023)

93% graduate employment

Southern Cross has 93% graduate employment in Business and Management

(Graduate Outcomes Survey 2018-2020)

5-star ratings for business and management

We’re rated 5-stars for full-time employment, overall experience, skills development, student support and teaching quality

(GUG 2023)

Fees and Scholarships

Domestic students

You are a domestic student if you are an Australian citizen or permanent resident, New Zealand citizen, or Australian humanitarian visa holder. Your course will either be a Commonwealth Supported Place or a full fee-paying place. This is noted in the course snapshot.

Commonwealth Supported Places:

In a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP), the Government pays some of your fees and you pay the rest as the Student Contribution Amount (SCA).

SCA is calculated per unit, not per course. Eligible students can defer the SCA through a HECS-HELP loan.

Full Fee-Paying Places:

A full fee-paying place is where you pay the full (unsubsidised) tuition fee for your course. Eligible students can defer the payment of their tuition fees through the FEE-HELP scheme (including employer-reserved places for The Hotel School courses).

Also known as SSAF, the Student Services and Amenities Fee is a compulsory fee for most students used to provide important services and amenities to students both on and off campus. It’s charged per unit, based on the unit’s credit point value. Eligible domestic students have the option of deferring this fee through the SA-HELP loan scheme. More about SSAF

Depending on your course, your costs could also include computer equipment and software, books, stationery, field trips, uniforms or other course-specific expenses such as art materials, musical equipment or travel for practicums, internships, vaccinations or industry experience.

Southern Cross University offers a range of scholarships for undergraduate (your first degree), postgraduate, Indigenous Australian students as well as international students. There are also scholarships available to help you study overseas for a short period as an international exchange student. Scholarships range from a few hundred dollars a year to several thousand dollars a year.

More about scholarships

Further fee information

Fees and Scholarships

International Students

If you're an international student, you can find the annual course cost in Australian dollars (AUD$) on our International Courses and Fees page or on the web page for your course under fees.

Also known as SSAF, the Student Services and Amenities Fee is a compulsory fee for most students used to provide important services and amenities to students both on and off campus. It’s charged per unit, based on the unit’s credit point value. Eligible domestic students have the option of deferring this fee through the SA-HELP loan scheme. More about SSAF

Depending on your course, your costs could also include computer equipment and software, books, stationery, field trips, uniforms or other course-specific expenses such as art materials, musical equipment or travel for practicums, internships, vaccinations or industry experience.

Southern Cross University offers a range of scholarships for undergraduate (your first degree), postgraduate, Indigenous Australian students as well as international students. There are also scholarships available to help you study overseas for a short period as an international exchange student. Scholarships range from a few hundred dollars a year to several thousand dollars a year.

More about scholarships

Further fee information

Apply now

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Click the Apply button to start your application in our Application Portal.

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International students studying in Australia

Gold Coast

Melbourne

Perth

Sydney

Dates for the diary

Our shorter, more focused six-week unit structure gives students a greater sense of momentum and motivation as they achieve milestones quickly. Application dates per Term are shown on each course page however refer to our key dates and teaching calendar for detail on when enrolment opens, studies commence and when grades are published. There are also Dual Term and Tri Term calendars for those who have specific subjects.

See key dates

Credit Transfer

Get a head start on your degree. Find out if you’re eligible for credit from previous studies.

Go to credit assessor

Entry Pathway

We believe in equal access to further education, so we offer a range of pathways to university.

Find a pathway