Study Bachelor of Accounting (Pathway to Master of Finance (Global Investment and Trade)) at the University of South Australia (UniSA). Information for International students.

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Entry requirements Degree overview Career outcomes How to apply Study experience

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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)

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International students

Start date
February
July

Campus
City West

Duration
3 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus/Online

Program Code
DBCO

Prerequisites
None

Assumed Knowledge
None

Fees
AUD$ 38,300 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2025

Admissions
Student Profile

English Language Requirements

IELTS total [6.0]
IELTS reading [6.0]
IELTS writing [6.0]

Equivalent English qualifications (PDF)

International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements

CRICOS Code
108856K

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

None

Assumed Knowledge

None

English 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 test

IELTS total [6.0]
IELTS reading [6.0]
IELTS writing [6.0]

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by UniSA and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements: English Language Equivalence Table (PDF)

Admission Requirements by Country

Vietnam	7.5
Australia	70
IB (best 6)	26
USA SAT (1600)	1110
India (best 4) State Board	75
Canada High School (OSSD)	65
Eynesbury FSP	330
India (best 4) Central Board	65
German Abitur	3.5
HKDSE	15
Kenya KCSE (average)	B+
Nepal NEB	2.61
Bangladesh HSC	4
Malaysia STPM (best 3)	6
Malaysia UEC	30
Norway GPA	3
Pakistan HSSC	85
Sri Lanka A Levels (best 3)	7
Sweden GPA	13
UK Board GCE A Levels/HK Board	7

View full entry requirements Hide full entry requirements

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This program pathway is no longer offered please see Bachelor of Accounting (Pathway to Master of Finance)

Degree overview

Complete a commerce undergraduate and postgraduate finance 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.
Both on campus and mixed mode study options are available, providing you with flexibility throughout your studies.
Develop strong problem solving, reporting, decision-making, communication and teamwork skills, and 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.
Develop career-ready skills employers are looking for once you graduate, with enterprise skills embedded in all business courses.
Apply advanced concepts to global financial challenges and expand your career potential across international borders.
Gain experience on the intricacies of international trade using state-of-the-art market simulation programs in our Iress Trading Room on campus – the same technology used by the world's leading banks and investment firms.
Examine developments in FinTech and Blockchain technologies and the implications for international financial markets and the global economy.
Explore global opportunities by completing 150 hours of industry placement with a local or international organisation.
Study a curriculum informed by world-class research in Accounting and Finance¹.
Study at a university recognised globally in Business. UniSA Business is in the top one per cent worldwide and has been awarded an overall five stars for excellence².
UniSA Business is accredited by both AACSB International and EFMD (EQUIS) – the world’s leading accreditation bodies.
Study at a Top 5 business school in Australia for quality³.

¹2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA). ²UniSA 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. ³Ranked #5, Australian 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.

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.

Your postgraduate degree will equip you with the skills to manage critical issues facing global trade, and international business and finance. You will develop an in-depth understanding of the interconnections between institutions and global financial markets, as well as the implications of changing regulation and policy.

You will also be immersed in other real-world challenges including industry internships and our entrepreneur-based course Startup Studio, which teaches you how to bring a business concept to life. 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.

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.

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.

In your postgraduate degree, you will study core courses in business and global investment and trade. Using state-of-the-art market simulation programs in our Iress Trading Room on campus, you will gain hands-on experience and further understand the intricacies behind international investment.

Tertiary Transfer

If you have a Pass average or above from another eligible degree, you may be eligible to use this as entry into this program. Learn more.

Recognised Prior Learning (RPL)

If you have undertaken related Higher Education, TAFE, VET, Professional body or work experience, you may be eligible to receive recognised prior learning (RPL) and reduce the duration of the degree. Learn more.

Degree structure

Course name	Area and cat no.	Units	Reference
FIRST YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Quantitative Methods for Business	MATH 1053	4.5
Accounting for Business	ACCT 1008	4.5	Note(s): 1
Career Development in Business	BUSS 1060	4.5
Marketing Principles: Trading and Exchange	MARK 1010	4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Financial Accounting 1	ACCT 1006	4.5
Business and Society	BUSS 1057	4.5
OR
International Study Tour		4.5	Note(s): 3
OR
Elective		4.5	Note(s): 2
Principles of Economics	ECON 1008	4.5
Business Law	LAWS 1018	4.5
SECOND YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Financial Accounting 2	ACCT 2005	4.5
Management Accounting	ACCT 2006	4.5
Management and Organisation	BUSS 2068	4.5
Business Intelligence	INFS 2036	4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Companies and Partnership Law	COML 2005	4.5
Cost Management and Control Systems	ACCT 2013	4.5
OR
Elective		4.5	Note(s): 2
Auditing Theory and Practice	ACCT 3005	4.5
Financial Accounting 3	ACCT 3007	4.5
THIRD YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Financial Theory and Financial Markets	BANK 5014	4.5
Taxation Law 1	ACCT 3002	4.5
Sustainability Accounting and Reporting	ACCT 3010	4.5
Corporate Finance	BUSS 5233	4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
International Finance	BANK 5028	4.5
Contemporary Issues in Accounting	ACCT 3003	4.5
Strategic Financial Analysis	BUSS 3083	4.5
Investment Management	BANK 5013	4.5

Electives

Course name	Area and cat no.	Units
Experiential Electives
Business Internship 30 Days	BUSS 3010	9
Business Decision Making Simulation	BUSS 3074	4.5
Business Practicum	BUSS 3080	4.5
International Business Project	BUSS 2063	4.5
Social Enterprise Case Competition	BUSS 2087	4.5
Tax Clinic	ACCT 3017	4.5
Virtual Industry Internship	BUSS 3100	4.5
Suggested Electives
Entrepreneurship for Social and Market Impact	BUSS 2085	4.5
International Business Environments	BUSS 3103	4.5
Negotiated Project	BUSS 3112	4.5
Ethics and Financial Advice	BANK 2012	4.5
Creativity and Innovation	BUSS 2066	4.5
Business Virtual Study Tour - Undergraduate	BUSS 2070	4.5
CPA Ethics and Governance	BUSS 3099	4.5
Project Management: Principles and Strategies	INFS 2022	4.5
Community Service Learning Project 1	EDUC 4186	4.5
Strategic Management	BUSS 3023	4.5
Studies in Small Enterprise	BUSS 3001	4.5

Rules & notes

Rules

1. Students who have received 36 units block credit are not eligible for this program.

Notes

1. Students who have received an Accounting Career Grant (ACG) for completion of SACE Stage 2 Accounting* with a B+ or higher do not need to complete this course but may undertake a professional development elective approved by their program director within three years of commencement of their program, as outlined in their grant letter of offer. *Or interstate equivalent to be determined by UniSA Business.

2. Electives may be used to: complete an Experiential Elective (refer to Experiential Electives listing); undertake an international student exchange up to 18 units; to study other courses of interest offered by UniSA Business including the options provided in the Suggested Electives list; or complete a language study option. One elective may be chosen from outside UniSA Business unless otherwise approved by the Program Director. Course pre-requisites must be satisfied. In completing any elective identified as a "CPA subject" you will not qualify as a CPA. To qualify as a CPA, you must meet ALL the requirements of the CPA Program as set by CPA Australia. Students completing "CPA subjects" will incur additional fees from CPA Australia in order to sit CPA Australia's exam.

3. View available Overseas Study Opportunities at https://www.unisa.edu.au/global-experiences/study-overseas/ or contact short.programs@unisa.edu.au

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 Accounting (Pathway to Master of Finance (Global Investment and Trade))

This Fast-track to Masters program enables you to commence a 3-year Bachelor of Accounting and secure a place in a 1-year Master of Management (Global Investment and Trade) degree (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.

This is a globally competitive degree respected for its quality and relevance to industry. 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.

Your postgraduate studies will focus on advanced financial theory and its application to critical issues and policy challenges facing the world's institutions, global finance and international financial markets.

You will develop the skills and expertise to analyse critical financial data and make informed decisions in a global context. You will study courses in international finance and trade and graduate with the knowledge and practical skills required for employment in a modern globalised financial sector.

Under the guidance of our highly-experienced research professionals, you will strengthen your research and analytical skills.

You will also have the opportunity to 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.

As a graduate, you will be eligible for membership with leading industry bodies such as CPA Australia, and Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand.

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 a blend of online and on-campus study, part-time or full-time learning, Summer and Winter School intensive courses, mentoring and networking opportunities with industry, and leadership skill development. You can also explore accelerated learning pathways and seek program support from our Business Student Hub.

Real-world connections

In addition to learning from teachers with professional experience as part of your studies, we also offer opportunities for you to connect with industry outside the classroom. There are a range of engagement opportunities available to you, including:

Build your networks and career options by participating in the Business Career Mentor Program, which pairs you with an experienced business professional
Undertake a Business Internship or complete an industry project, and apply the skills and knowledge gained from your studies in a real workplace setting
Become a global citizen through our international exchange programs– we have more than 80 partner institutions worldwide, and study options that range from two weeks to one year
Meet one-to-one with a senior business executive through our Executive in Residence program. You’ll receive expert guidance and gain workplace insights that will support your career development.

We host regular University-wide careers events and workshops, expos, and alumni events in Australia and overseas.

Our teaching staff are industry experienced and maintain close working links with leading professional bodies such as Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP) and the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Institute. This collaboration ensures the knowledge you take into your career will meet the dynamic needs of industry, and your qualification remains relevant and applicable.

While you study you can get valuable industry experience through industry placements in Australia, or an international study experience through more than 60 exchange partners across Asia, Europe, North America and South America. Our links to UniSA’s research facilities ensure your learning is connected to the latest technologies, theories and applications of finance knowledge.

Placements and internships bridge the gap between study and work. Our connections to industry create opportunities for you to grow. These experiences build confidence in the business world and give you a competitive edge.

Career outcomes

Your career

Our quality teaching and experiences beyond the classroom will ensure you graduate career ready.

Careers to consider:

Trade finance specialist: developing and reviewing trade finance guidelines and policies; identifying risk and developing models to safeguard against losses.
Economic adviser: understanding and interpreting public policy issues; undertaking research, analysing data and identifying trends and wider consumer impacts.
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.

Industry facts

By 2023 employment for financial brokers in Australia is projected to increase by 7,200 (19.7 per cent).

Australian Government Department of Jobs and Small Business, 2018 Occupational Projections.

The financial services sector is currently Australia’s largest industry contributing $161 billion to the economy every year.

Financial Services Council State of the Industry Report 2019.

Employment for Accountants is expected to increase by 9.2 per cent by November 2026.

Australian Government National Skills Commission Labour Markets Insight, Employment Projections 2021.

How to apply

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 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

Credit transfer

You could be eligible for credit for previous studies you have undertaken. Find out online.

Go to credit assessor

Life in Adelaide

Current international students talk about living in Adelaide and studying at UniSA.

Hear from our students

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.

More scholarships

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.

Learn more

International Merit Scholarship

Recipients can get a 15% reduction on tuition fees for the duration of their chosen degree.

Learn more

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 gain access 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. 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 international 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:

career advice and mentoring
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 face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies, and can offer help with the English language too. 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 campus

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.

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.

Mr Scott Copeland

Program Director

Enquire

Mr Scott Copeland

Program Director

Enquire

Ask UniSA

How do I 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.
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.
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.

More FAQs

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)