Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting)
Degree Level Undergraduate
Year 2022
You're viewing degree information for International students
You're considered an International student if you are:
- NOT an Australian or New Zealand citizen
- NOT an Australian Permanent Resident (including Permanent Humanitarian Visa holders)
Program Code
DBCA
Prerequisites
None
Assumed Knowledge
None
Fees
2022: AUD$ 32,600 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL)
Admissions
Student Profile
English Language Requirements
- IELTS total [6.0]
- IELTS reading [6.0]
- IELTS writing [6.0]
International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements
CRICOS Code
080917C
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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 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
Prerequisites
NoneAssumed Knowledge
NoneEnglish language entry requirements
In addition, international students who speak English as a foreign 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 the University of South Australia. 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.English language testSee equivalence table for other qualifications and English Language tests accepted by UniSA (PDF)- IELTS total [6.0]
- IELTS reading [6.0]
- IELTS writing [6.0]
Admission Requirements by Country
Bangladesh HSC 3.5 Canada High School (OSSD) 65 Eynesbury FSP 320 German Abitur 3.5 India (best 4) 63 Kenya KCSE (average) B Malaysia STPM (best 3) 6 Malaysia UEC 31 Norway GPA 3 Pakistan HSSC 80 Sri Lanka A Levels (best 3) 7 Sweden GPA 13 UK Board GCE A Levels/HK Board 7 Vietnam 7.5 Australia 68 IB (best 6) 26 USA SAT (1600) 1110 HKDSE 16 Nepal NEB 2.51
Eligible students commencing in SP2 2022 can apply to receive a Women in Finance and Economics Scholarship up to the value of $14,630.
Degree overview
- UniSA Business is in the top one per cent worldwide1 and has been awarded an overall five stars for excellence in the QS Stars Ratings 2020.
- Ranked No. 1 in SA and top 10 in Australia for Business and Economics2.
- UniSA Business is accredited by both AACSB International and EFMD (EQUIS) – the world’s leading accreditation bodies.
- Develop strong problem solving, reporting, decision-making, communication and teamwork skills.
- Learn about the economic, legal and political influences that impact global business.
- Develop the knowledge for a successful and rewarding career in accounting and business advisory with an industry-accredited degree.
- Participate in an overseas study tour learning about business practices in other regions, complete an internship or undertake a mentorship opportunity.
- Provide advice under the supervision of qualified tax professionals to members of the community and small businesses in our on-campus Tax Clinic.
- Add a 1-year master's degree to your studies with our 3+1 Pathway to Masters package, and complete an undergraduate and postgraduate degree in just four years.
- Study a curriculum informed by world-class research in Accounting2.
1UniSA Business is one of just 11 institutions in Australia and 191 globally to be accredited by EQUIS (from over 16,500 worldwide). EFMD, February 2021. 22021 THE Subject Rankings. 32018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).
Snapshot
Ranked in the top one per cent worldwide1, we are one of the largest leading providers of accounting and finance education in Australia and Asia.
This industry-accredited degree will provide you with a strong foundation of knowledge in accounting combined with business, taxation, auditing, finance and sustainability. You will also learn about the current economic, legal and political influences affecting global business as well as develop critical problem solving, reporting, decision-making, communication and teamwork skills.
We know that employers value graduates with industry experience so there are opportunities to embed an internship, mentoring or work-integrated learning into your degree. You could even work on a business project overseas.
1UniSA Business is one of just ten institutions in Australia and 189 globally to be accredited by EQUIS (from over 16,500 worldwide). EFMD, February 2020.
What you'll learn
You will start with core courses in business. These will give you a solid grounding in important areas including accounting and quantitative methods for business, business law, finance, business intelligence, data analysis, economics and management.
You’ll then branch out into your accounting specialisation, learning cutting edge knowledge and skills in:
- financial and management accounting
- taxation and company law
- auditing
- sustainability accounting
- global and contemporary accounting issues
- strategic financial analysis
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
- 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 Commerce (Accounting)
This is a globally competitive degree respected for its quality and relevance to industry.
As a graduate, you will be eligible for membership with leading industry bodies such as CPA Australia, and Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand.
As a student, you'll benefit from our strong links with the accounting profession and professional industry bodies, as well as gain practical skills with computer simulation software using state-of-the-art technologies. You'll also have the opportunity to participate in a study tour learning about business practices, as well as political and cultural influences in other regions.
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.
3+1 Pathway to Masters
Want to gain a postgraduate degree with just one extra year of study? You can package the Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) with a choice of Master of Finance or Master of Management degrees and graduate with two qualifications in just four years with our 3+1 Pathway to Masters program. This unique offering allows you to fast-track your studies, develop greater expertise and broaden your career opportunities. You will study a three-year bachelor's degree and a one-year master’s degree (typically two years) in four years by using your undergraduate courses or electives.
More ways to study
Our program delivery and extra-curricular opportunities are designed to suit your lifestyle, preferred way of learning and career interests. You can benefit from 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.
This could be you
You'll graduate from UniSA prepared for a range of careers - see where our accounting degree could take you.
Your career
Our quality teaching and experiences beyond the classroom will ensure you graduate career ready.
Careers to consider:
- Auditor/Risk consultant: ensuring financial and operational integrity and compliance; evaluating and reporting on financial, operational and managerial processes and systems; working on business process reviews and risk assessments
- Business adviser: working with new or established businesses; analysing business plans and financial statements; advising on investments, marketing, funding and financial trends; understanding consumer needs and how to improve profitability; problem solving with clients
- Forensic accountant: working in a corporate or regulatory environment to investigate fraud and similar crimes; researching and preparing forensic reports for courts; providing expert evidence
- Insolvency and reconstruction adviser: working with and achieving the best possible results for stakeholders in cases of personal and business financial distress; administrations and liquidations; restructuring under performing businesses and turnarounds
- Management accountant: assisting senior management make critical business decisions; preparing forecasts, budgets and risk analysis; advising managers about the financial implications of business decisions
- Practising accountant: working for private sector, government or individuals; preparing tax returns; keeping accounting systems up-to-date; maintaining financial records; advising on business structures
- Tax accountant/Corporate tax consultant: compiling company and other business tax returns, and individual tax returns; providing tax planning advice and strategies
Professional accreditation and recognition
The program is accredited by Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand and satisfies the educational requirements for entry into the Chartered Accountants Program.
The program is accredited by CPA Australia and satisfies the educational requirements for entry into the CPA Program.
The program is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) and recognised for maximum exemptions for an accelerated pathway into CIMA's professional qualification.
This program is recognised for maximum exemptions toward the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants' (ACCA) professional programs of study.
Industry facts
How to apply for international students will give you helpful information about the application process at the University of South Australia. When you are ready, apply through our International Application System. If you would like to talk to someone near you about studying at the University of South Australia, we have agents all over the world who can assist you. Find an Education Agent in your country.
Alternative Pathways
Australian
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:
- UniSA College Diploma in Business
- UniSA College Foundation Studies
- 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
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
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.
Vice Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship
Recipients can get a 50% reduction on tuition fees for up to four years of full-time study for selected degrees.
International Merit Scholarship
Recipients can get a 15% reduction on tuition fees for the duration of their chosen degree.
Your study experience and support
As a UniSA student, you will have unique access to work placement opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events, internships, guest speakers and more.
Our campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform. We have health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and great student lounges. You will also gainaccess to a range of community clinics, which provide professional and cost effective services in areas of health, business, law and psychology. 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 lots more.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets should you need, from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages or explore our student accommodation by urbanest on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal perfect 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
The Business Student Hub is a dedicated convenient, support service for business students, from first year right through to graduation. The team provides expert advice on study options, elective choices and any academic difficulties, and can help with referrals to support services across the University. The Business Student Hub is there to facilitate your life at university, so you get the most out of your UniSA experience.
You can also access a range of other international student services including
- careers advice
- help with student visas and health cover
- personal counselling
- academic counselling
- fees and finance help
- common rooms
- prayer rooms
- security officers
- accommodation services
- as well as services offered through our student association, USASA
We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers which you can work with face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies, and can also offer help with the English language.
When you become a UniSA student you can contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your ID cards, fees and any other questions you might have.
24/7 digital environment
With interactive online course materials and a 24/7 learning environment you can organise your study to suit your lifestyle. You can:
- study online, including accessing videos and course resources
- participate in virtual classrooms
- submit your assignments and get feedback online
- use forums and discussion boards for team work and communication
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.
Please note, all student visa holders are required to meet their visa condition to study no more than one-third of their program in an online mode and maintain enrolment in at least one internal (face-to-face) course per compulsory study period, unless it is their final course and not available internally. If you are currently residing in Adelaide, on-campus attendance (such as seminars, workshops or examinations) and/or placements would apply, as outlined on individual course pages. If you are currently overseas, online study may be available following your individual study plan.
Your program director
Studying accounting at UniSA provided me with diverse and rewarding professional opportunities I never dreamed possible. It is a profession that touches on every business, in every industry in the world – so the opportunities for a successful career are vast and wide. But importantly, UniSA accounting graduates are respected and trusted in practice and commerce, and their opinions matter in decision-making that affects our economy, community and environment.
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How to apply?
There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.
You can access our online International Application System through our How to Apply page. The International Application System is an easy and secure online application and acceptance process. You will have visibility of your application through the secure online portal with the ability to download offer documents, submit your acceptance and make a payment.
Alternatively you can submit an application through one of the University's registered Education Agents.
If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC http://www.satac.edu.au/.
If you are applying for the UniSA Study Abroad or Study Abroad Plus program, you can submit your application online here.
Postgraduate study by research
For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit http://unisa.edu.au/resdegrees. -
Is there a closing date for applications?
There is no closing date for submitting your application however the admissions process takes between one and three weeks from the date that we receive your application and all required supporting documentation.
If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC. Key dates for applications can be found here.
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What credit can I receive for previous studies?
You may be eligible to receive credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area at an equivalent or higher level. Receiving credit will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.
The amount of credit you may be eligible to receive is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions team.
The best way to determine your eligibility to receive credit or advanced standing is to apply using our International Application System which can be found on our How to Apply page. You will need to supply detailed syllabus documents with your application.
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Can I speak to someone regarding my study options?
UniSA welcomes the opportunity to speak with you regarding your study options. Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life, so that you are able to make the best study decision for your future.
Click here to book a 1:1 appointment with one of our enquiries team.
We also have many events throughout the year in Australia and overseas where you can speak with UniSA representatives about your area of interest. View our calendar of events in your home country by selecting the 'International' filter.
What others are saying
"I was able to participate in the mentor program, Chartered Accountancy achiever program and networking events within the university and accounting organisations. It gave me an insight into the industry and the skills I need to have when I enter the workforce."
Damien Mcleod
Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting)
Accountant, Accru Harris Orchard
