Master of Professional Accounting

The Master of Professional Accounting is a two-year postgraduate degree for people who want to move into accounting or formalise skills they already have. It assumes no prior accounting study, so you start with the basics: financial accounting, management accounting, business law, economics, finance and statistics. From there you move into auditing, taxation, corporate reporting and accounting information systems. Assessment is a mix of exams, assignments, group projects and case studies based on real Australian businesses.

How the degree is structured

Australian master's degrees are built on units of study, each worth a set number of credit points. A full-time load is usually four units per semester, and most institutions run two semesters a year, with some offering a third trimester. Over two years you complete around 16 units. Many programmes finish with a capstone unit where you work through an integrated business case or a small research project. Some also include a professional placement or industry project, which counts towards your credit points.

What you learn

You learn how to prepare and analyse financial statements, apply Australian accounting standards, calculate tax liabilities, audit internal controls and use accounting software. You also build the communication and teamwork skills that accounting firms expect. The degree is taught in Sydney, one of Australia's main financial centres, so you are studying in a city with a large concentration of accounting and professional services firms.

Who it suits

This course suits career changers with a bachelor's degree in another field, as well as international students who want an Australian accounting qualification. It also works for people already working in finance or bookkeeping who want to move into a professional accounting role. If you are an international student, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session. After graduating, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, which lets you stay and work in Australia. Always check the official CRICOS page and the institution's website for current details on structure, fees and English requirements.

• Graduate accountant or assistant accountant in public practice firms, from small local practices to mid-tier and large firms
• Management accountant or financial analyst in corporate finance teams
• Audit associate in professional services firms
• Tax accountant or tax consultant in accounting practices and advisory firms
• Financial officer or bookkeeper in government departments, not-for-profits and private companies
• Accounting roles in banking, insurance and superannuation

Accounting is on Australia's skilled occupation lists, and graduates often work towards professional accreditation with CPA Australia, Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, or the Institute of Public Accountants. Check the current accreditation status of the programme with the relevant body.