Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning) (Pathway to Master of Professional Accounting)
Degree Level Undergraduate
Year 2025
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You're considered an Australian student if you are any of the following:
- Australian or New Zealand Citizen
- Australian Permanent Resident (including Permanent Humanitarian Visa holders)
Entry Scores
2025 Guaranteed Entry
Year 12 (ATAR-based): 70.00
Year 12 (Grades-based): B,B,B
TAFE/RTO: DIP
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2024 Cut-Offs
TAFE/RTO: Cert IV
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Entry requirements
Admission criteria
The admission criteria have been grouped to assist you to easily find the information most relevant to your circumstances. However, you may fit into more than one and the university will consider applicants against each of the relevant criteria.
Certain conditions apply. For more information refer to Appendix 4 of the University's Selection and Entry policy.
Applicants are required to meet one of the following criteria with a competitive result, and demonstrate that they
fulfil any prerequisite requirements and essential requirements for admission:
Recent secondary education
Meet any prerequisite requirements with a minimum grade of C- or equivalent
AND- Qualify for the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), and achieved a competitive Selection Rank (ATAR), or
- Complete secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE, or
- Complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum score of 24 points
Applicants who have not achieved the Selection Rank required for automatic selection may be selected for any
remaining places based on the grades of their year 12 subjects.OR
Higher education study- Complete or partly complete a recognised higher education program at a recognised higher education
institution, or - Complete at least four Open Universities Australia (OUA) courses at undergraduate level or above
OR
Vocational Education and Training (VET)- Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Certificate IV or above
OR
Work and life experience- Qualify for Special Entry, or
- Complete a 12-month UniSA Foundation Studies program or equivalent, or
- Hold completed secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE obtained more than 2 years in the past
Essential requirements for admission
Achieve a GPA of 4.0 or above on completion of their second year of study to be eligible.
Prerequisites
NoneAssumed Knowledge
None
Degree overview
- Complete a business undergraduate and postgraduate accounting degree in just four years through our Fast-track to Masters program.
- Graduate with a highly diverse skill-set and broader career opportunities.
- Gain real-world experience through an industry internship, a mentorship opportunity or an overseas study tour.
- Our Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning) degree is FASEA approved, recognised by Financial Adviser Standards, The Treasury1.
- Both on campus and mixed mode study options are available, providing you with flexibility throughout your studies.
- Develop career-ready skills employers are looking for once you graduate, with enterprise skills embedded in all business courses.
- Meet the education requirements to practise as a qualified financial adviser.
- Learn in our state-of-the-art Iress Trading Room on campus, which includes a market data feed and financial analysis tools – the same technology used by the world's leading banks and investment firms.
- One of only five Australian universities to offer professional CPA elective courses within an accounting degree.
- Develop crucial analytical, business management, problem-solving, teamwork and communication skills.
- Focus on key areas such as accounting, tax, law, auditing, financial management and public practice.
- Study a curriculum informed by world-class research in Accounting2.
- Study at a university recognised globally for Business. UniSA Business is in the top one per cent worldwide and has been awarded an overall five stars for excellence3.
- UniSA Business is accredited by both AACSB International and EFMD (EQUIS) – the world’s leading accreditation bodies.
- Study at the No.1 Business School in SA, and Top 5 business school in Australia for quality.4.
1The Financial Adviser Standards and Conduct Unit (FASCU), The Treasury, have taken on the responsibilities of the Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA) as of 1 January 2022. 22018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA). 3UniSA Business is one of just 13 institutions in Australia and approximately 200 globally (from over 25,000 universities) to be EQUIS accredited. EFMD, March 2024. 2023 QS Stars Business School Ratings. 4Australian Financial Review BOSS Best Business Schools List 2023.
Snapshot
This Fast-track to Masters program allows you to fast-track your career by completing an undergraduate and postgraduate degree in just four years. You will be able to diversify your skill set, increase your earning potential with a more advanced qualification, and expand your career opportunities across a range of fields.
This program will equip you with the education requirements to practise as a qualified financial adviser. Explore an exciting career in a dynamic and growing area of the financial services industry with one of the first bachelor programs in Australia to meet new education requirements.
We’ve worked closely with industry to develop our course content, and regularly consult with Treasury, to ensure your degree meets the most up-to-date industry standards.
The Master of Professional Accounting will prepare you for practice as a professional accountant. You will develop analytical, general business management and critical problem-solving skills, and gain a comprehensive understanding of accounting practice.
Your studies will focus on financial and management accounting, finance, commercial law, taxation law and auditing. You’ll study contemporary research and real-life case studies with the opportunity to complete an industry placement in Australia or overseas. You will graduate well-equipped for a global career, knowledgeable in areas such as accounting, tax, financial management, and public practice.
You will also benefit from other experience-based learning opportunities, including overseas study and business mentoring. Our summer and winter schools also offer exciting study and learning opportunities.
Want to look at other options available to you? UniSA offer a wide range of other Fast-track to Masters programs.
What you'll learn
You will start with core courses in areas such as analytics, accounting and economic theory. These will give you a solid grasp of business fundamentals that you can apply to a range of careers.
In your specialisation you will develop your expertise across areas such as tax, personal finance, superannuation, insurance, relevant legislation, regulations and codes of practice, as well as building and managing client relationships – a critical focus area for future financial advisers.
You will study estate planning and compulsory courses that have been outlined in the FASEA education requirements including ethics and professionalism, and financial advice regulatory and legal obligations. In your final year, you will also develop and present a detailed statement of advice (SOA) – a comprehensive document financial advisers provide to clients based on their needs and goals.
This program is approved by Treasury which means it provides you with the essential education requirements to practise as a qualified financial adviser after graduation.
In the Master of Professional Accounting you will study five core courses and nine accounting specialisation courses. You will gain a solid grounding in the latest accounting methods by studying areas in auditing, taxation, financial and management accounting and corporate finance.
You can gain an extra qualification and broaden your career prospects by completing a Diploma in Languages.
Study hours
For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
Your studies at UniSA will incorporate both practical, professionally-focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:
- reports, project documentation, case studies and presentations
- essays and assignments
- examinations
- industry-relevant, research-based projects
- practicals and team-based projects
- participation in the workplace and in class
Global opportunities
Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.
You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.
Take a look at the global opportunities available.
Why Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning) (Pathway to Master of Professional Accounting)
This Fast-track to Masters program enables you to commence a 3-year Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning) and secure a place in a 1-year Master of Professional Accounting (typically 1.5 years) in just four years of study.
You will fast track your progression into the master’s qualification by substituting four selected courses or electives in your bachelor's degree to complete master’s-level courses.
UniSA Business is one of the largest leading providers of accounting and finance education in Australia and Asia and is ranked in the top one per cent worldwide1.
This degree will provide you with the knowledge and skills required to practise as a financial adviser and succeed in the financial services sector.
Your course content has been developed in conjunction with leading industry experts and researchers to ensure that what you learn is practical, relevant and current to today’s changing business landscape.
You’ll learn from expert academics and practising financial advisers. Your studies are enriched by the unique insights from professionals who know the ins and outs of the industry and understand the unique challenges and opportunities that financial advisers face today.
You will also use our state-of-the-art Iress Trading Room which includes a market data feed, trading software as well as XPLAN financial planning software common in practice.
The financial services profession has recently introduced new education standards, making it more important than ever for aspiring financial advisers to hold a recognised qualification. If you’re looking to enter the industry, you’ll now need to study a FASEA-approved program to start your career.
You will gain an advanced understanding of accounting practice and develop analytical, business management, critical problem-solving and communication skills. Our industry experienced teaching staff work closely with leading professional bodies, ensuring the knowledge you take into your career will meet the dynamic needs of the accounting profession.
You will also have the opportunity to participate in the professional level of the CPA Program with CPA Australia as part of your master studies. You will graduate with a master degree fully accredited by CPA Australia and Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, and recognised for maximum exemptions toward the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants' (ACCA) professional programs of study.
UniSA Business is the only business school in South Australia accredited by both AACSB International (The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) and EFMD (EQUIS) – the world’s leading accreditation bodies recognising excellence in business education and research at a global level. These dual accreditations demonstrate the high standards we hold across all areas such as teaching, student learning and research, as well as our commitment to continually improving the quality of our programs.
An enriching student experience
Our flexible delivery and extra-curricular opportunities are designed to suit your lifestyle, preferred way of learning and career interests. You can benefit from online and on-campus study, part-time or full-time learning, Summer and Winter School intensive courses, mentoring and networking opportunities with industry, and accelerated learning pathways. Plus, you can make the most of professional development courses endorsed by industry, build leadership skills employers value through UniSA+ and seek support at our on-campus Business Student Hub.
1UniSA Business is one of just 13 institutions in Australia and approximately 200 globally (from over 25,000 universities) to be EQUIS
accredited. EFMD, March 2024.
Study Financial Planning at UniSA
Hear from Geoff Pacecca, Founder and Principal Adviser of GAP Financial and UniSA Financial Planning lecturer, about our suite of programs and the benefits of furthering your unstoppable career at UniSA.
Your career
As the No.1 university in South Australia for graduate careers in Business and Management1, our quality teaching and experiences beyond the classroom will ensure you graduate career-ready.
You could consider careers such as:
- Client relationship manager: providing high value, holistic and strategic financial advice to clients; identifying opportunities to build new client relationships and strengthen existing ones; researching the latest products and regulations; and focusing on delivering a high-quality customer experience.
- Corporate Tax Consultant: preparing tax returns for organisations; providing tax information and advice to corporate clients; analysing information to ensure compliance with government regulations
- Estate planner: providing clients with legal, financial and accounting advice to ensure long term financial protection of their estate during life and post-mortem; ensuring any assets are dispersed according to the wishes of the deceased in an effective way; and developing estate plans which may include preparing wills, life insurance, family trusts and manage tax implications for beneficiaries.
- Insurance broker: researching and reviewing available finance and insurance products to meet client requirements; arranging insurance, home loan mortgages and other types of finance for clients through banks, lenders, financiers and insurance companies; help clients understand insurance policy conditions, risks, premium rates and benefits; preparing reports for underwriters and liaise with other insurance professionals.
- Investment adviser or manager: developing financial plans and investment strategies for individuals and organisations; monitoring investment performance and review investment plans based on needs and changes in the market; buying and selling stocks and bonds for clients; and providing advice on tax implications, securities, insurance cover, pension plans and real estate.
- Financial planner or adviser: helping clients to meet short-term and long-term financial goals; assisting with legal and financial documents, financial laws and regulatory requirements; providing advice on personal investments and security planning, estate planning, tax planning, employee benefits planning and insurance planning; and delivering a high-quality customer experience.
- Senior Accountant: preparing accurate, timely financial statements; analysing financial statements; coordinating and conducting company audits; managing regular ledger maintenance; developing reporting tools to interpret financial information for wider business decision-making.
- Superannuation consultant: providing compliant financial advice in areas such as personal and business superannuation, retirement income stream products, pensions rollovers and annuities; interpreting new legislation changes and consider the impact of those changes on the portfolio of funds, help clients understand merits of Self-Managed Superannuation Funds (SMSF), and develop retirement plan strategies.
- Wealth manager: delivering holistic wealth management strategies and plans to help clients grow and sustain long-term financial goals; providing services across a range of areas including financial planning, investment management, and financial advice on pensions, trusts, inheritances, estate planning, retirement planning, and tax bands; and possessing knowledge of software solutions and key platforms in the industry.
1ComparED (QILT) Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021-23 – Full-time Employment Indicator (Domestic Undergraduate). SA public universities.
Industry facts
Applying to study with us:
- go to the top of this page and make note of the SATAC code, then click Apply
- you will be redirected through to the SATAC website to continue your application
Alternative Pathways
Australian
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:
- UniSA College Diploma in Business
- UniSA College Undergraduate Certificate in University Studies (Business)
- SAIBT Diploma of Business - if you complete this two year Diploma, you can apply to enter the 2nd year of this degree
- see the full list of entry pathways that may apply
International
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:
- SAIBT Diploma of Business - if you complete this two year Diploma, you can apply to enter the 2nd year of this degree
- see the full list of entry pathways that may apply
Deferment
This degree is available for deferment. This option is made available by responding to your offer during the application process via the SATAC website. Applicants who receive an offer into a midyear degree are eligible to defer for six months.
Scholarships
Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.
UniSA Excellence Scholarships
$5,000 scholarship for South Australian students with an ATAR of 99 who enrol to study a UniSA undergraduate degree.
UniSA Outstanding Achievement Scholarship
Up to $10,000 per annum (full time) for South Australian students who obtain an ATAR of 99.95 or IB equivalent and enrol to study at UniSA.
Your study experience and support
Our campuses are home to fantastic facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. But you’ll also discover that your journey at UniSA is about social experiences, healthy living and getting involved. You’ll find student sports and fitness facilities, community clinics, tech zones and chill-out spaces. There are campus sport activities to keep you active, and if you are keen to explore the social side of university life, there are movies, cooking demonstrations, parties and loads more.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.
Student services
Our student services provide you with all the support you need at university. We want you to succeed, and if you need help, we're here to assist. You can access a full range of support services, including:
- academic counselling
- personal counselling
- social support services, including family support and nearby childcare
- common rooms
- prayer rooms
- security officers
- career services and mentoring
- Wirringka Student Services, offering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students a supportive place to study
- as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.
When you become a UniSA student, you can also contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and more.
24/7 digital environment
Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.
Your program director
I am Program Director: Finance and Financial Planning in UniSA Business and Lecturer in Financial Planning and Finance. I have worked at the University of Greenwich (London) and have consulted both national and international organisations in economics, finance, and financial planning.
I teach in the areas of banking, finance, and financial planning, including personal financial planning, and personal risk management and insurance. My current research focuses on aspects of corporate social responsibility (CSR), environmental, sustainability and governance (ESG) factors, green finance, financial system governance and institutional reform, market spillovers, and the cost and provision of financial advice to lower socio-economic groups.
I am also a member of key industry professional bodies, and serve on relevant industry committees, enabling me to deliver the latest industry-informed knowledge to students. I believe my extensive experience helps me to understand and support students as they develop the necessary academic and practical skills to address real-world industry challenges, becoming experts in their area of interest.
Ask UniSA
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How do I apply?
The way you apply for UniSA will depend on the undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree you're interested in studying.
The majority of applications are made via the South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre (SATAC). Check out more information on the SATAC website and follow the appropriate process for your degree of interest.
There are a small number of degrees that you need to apply for through direct application processes. The process you need to follow will be listed on the 'How to Apply' section of the degree homepage, but you'll also be taken to where you need to go if you hit the 'apply' button.
If you are interested in studying one of our 100% online degrees you'll need to apply directly to UniSA Online.
You can find more information about the application processes for UniSA on our How to Apply webpage.
If you're more interested in applying for a postgraduate degree by research, check out and follow the information in our step by step guide to applying. -
Is there a closing date for applications?
Applications for all degrees will close ahead of study commencing, but the timelines may vary for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.
Undergraduate
The deadline to apply to study a degree at UniSA for semester one (commencing late February) and be guaranteed equal consideration is generally in very late November or early December. While you may be able to apply after this date, you are not guaranteed to be considered equally with other applicants and your application may not be assessed in time for the main round of offers. More competitive degrees may not make any offers after the main offer round. Find more information on the Key Dates section of the SATAC website, but you can also call the Future Student Enquiries team for more information on 08 8302 376.
Postgraduate
Many postgraduate by coursework degrees do not have set closing dates. The exceptions are highly competitive degrees, so it is best to check – either on the degree homepage on the SATAC website or by checking with our Future Student Enquiries team.
As most postgraduate applications are assessed as they are submitted and offers are continuous, there are no set closing dates for applications. Degrees can be filled and closed with little notice so it is best to apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out on a place. For more information, please contact our Future Student Enquires team on (08) 8302 2376 or submit an enquiry.
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What credit can I receive for previous studies?
You may be eligible for credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area and completed within a certain timeframe. Receiving credit or RPL will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree. You can read more about our pre-existing credit agreements through our online Credit Assessor. If you have related industry experience, you may also be eligible to receive recognised prior learning (RPL) for this experience. Credit and RPL is assessed by the Program Director once you've received an offer, and you apply through UniSA's current student experts, Campus Central.
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Can I speak to someone regarding my study options?
Future Student Enquiries welcomes the opportunity to meet with you to discuss your study options at UniSA. We can discuss degree information, entry requirements and pathways, applications, general career outcomes and student life, so you have the information to make the best study decision for your future. Head to our Book an Appointment webpage to find a date and time to speak with us, and take your next steps on journey to university study.
What others are saying
UniSA was the only university that offered the program I really wanted to study. I loved the idea that I could study an undergraduate and postgraduate degree together in such a short time, excel at it, still partake in the culture and events, and meet amazing people! Since the start of my degree, I have seen positive impacts on my personality and confidence, as well as my interpersonal, presentation and leadership skills. My university experience has been a great opportunity to grow and develop by combining two of my interests – business and people.
Anet Varghese
Bachelor of Business, Master of Management (Marketing)
