Start date
February
July

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

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

Degree overview

  • Study at a university recognised globally. UniSA Business is in the top one per cent worldwide and has been awarded an overall five stars for excellence1.
  • Study at a university ranked No. 1 in SA and top 15 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 accredited degree that allows you to work in any organisation or industry across the globe.
  • Gain real-world experience and build your networks whilst you study as part of your studies through an internship or mentorship opportunity.
  • Participate in an overseas study tour, in-person or virtual, learning about business practices in other regions.
  • Under the supervision of qualified tax professionals, you can gain practical, hands-on experience by providing tax advice to members of the community and small businesses in our on-campus Tax Clinic
  • Develop career-ready skills employers are looking for once you graduate with enterprise skills embedded in all business courses within this program.
  • Add a 1-year master's degree to your studies with our Fast-track to Masters package and complete an undergraduate and postgraduate degree in just four years.

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. 2023 QS Stars Business School Ratings. 22023 THE Subject Rankings.

Snapshot

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 learn about the current economic, legal and political influences affecting global business as well as develop critical problem solving, decision-making, communication, teamwork and technical 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 13 institutions in Australia and approximately 200 globally (from over 25,000 universities) to be EQUIS accredited. EFMD, March 2024.

What you'll learn

Business_Hub_images-38 copy_1.jpgYou 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.

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): 2
Career Development in Business BUSS 1060 4.5 Note(s): 1
Marketing Principles: Trading and Exchange MARK 1010 4.5 Note(s): 1
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Financial Accounting 1 ACCT 1006 4.5
Business and Society BUSS 1057 4.5 Note(s): 1
OR
International Study Tour 4.5 Note(s): 4
OR
Elective 4.5 Note(s): 3
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
Business Finance BANK 2007 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): 1,3
Management and Organisation BUSS 2068 4.5 Note(s): 1
Financial Accounting 3 ACCT 3007 4.5
THIRD YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Elective 4.5 Note(s): 1,3
Taxation Law 1 ACCT 3002 4.5
Sustainability Accounting and Reporting ACCT 3010 4.5
Elective 4.5 Note(s): 1,3
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Auditing Theory and Practice ACCT 3005 4.5
Contemporary Issues in Accounting ACCT 3003 4.5
Strategic Financial Analysis BUSS 3083 4.5
Elective 4.5 Note(s): 1,3

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

Business_Hub_images-35 copy.jpgYour 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 
  • contributions to the workplace and classroom.

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.

Global opportunities

Why Bachelor of Accounting

Why this Degree

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 industry bodies. You will gain practical skills in computer simulation software using state-of-the-art technologies. You'll also have the opportunity to apply your skills in a real workplace setting through an industry internship or participate in a study tour learning about business practices and 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.

Fast-track to Masters

Want to gain a postgraduate degree with just one extra year of study? You can package the Bachelor of Accounting with a Master of Management or Master of Financial Planning and graduate with two qualifications in four years with our Fast-track to Masters packages. You’ll study a three-year bachelor's degree and a one-year master’s degree (which typically takes two years) by swapping selected undergraduate courses or electives for postgraduate courses, and set yourself up for career success, fast. 

More ways to study

Our flexible delivery and extracurricular opportunities are designed to suit your lifestyle, preferred learning style, 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 by participating in the UniSA+ Award, or seek support at our on-campus 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 workshopsexpos, and alumni events in Australia and overseas. 

This could be you

You'll graduate from UniSA prepared for a range of careers - see where an accounting degree could take you.

UniSA Video

Career outcomes

Your career

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

Careers to consider include:

  • 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
  • Management accountant: preparing forecasts, budgets and risk analysis; advising managers about the financial implications of business decisions
  • Practising accountant: working for professional services firms, small and medium sized practice, government or in commerce; keeping accounting systems up-to-date; maintaining financial records; advising clients on risks, business structures, end of period results and performance strategies
  • 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

column-chart-growth

Employment for auditors, company secretaries and corporate treasurers in Australia is projected to increase by 2,700 (or 10.6 per cent) by May 20241.

1Australian Government Department of Employment, Occupational Employment Projections 2019.

chart-people

Employment for Accountants is expected to increase by 9.2 per cent by November 2026.1

1Australian 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:

International
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:

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

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

Student services

The Business Student Hub is a dedicated and 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.

UniSA’s Student Association, USASA, also provides a range of other services. For example, you can also join the Commerce Student Society – an independent body that provides educational and vocational support, as well as a variety of social and network events.


We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers who 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 can help you with your ID card, 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:

  • access 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.

Student services

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.

Location This degree is delivered at the following campus.

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
Portrait image for Mr Scott Copeland
Portrait image for Mr Scott Copeland

Mr Scott Copeland

Program Director

Enquire

Ask UniSA

  • How do I apply? minus-thick plus-thick

    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? minus-thick plus-thick

    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? minus-thick plus-thick

    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? minus-thick plus-thick

    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

"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

Damien Mcleod Undergraduate Commerce student.jpg

Damien Mcleod

Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting)
Accountant, Accru Harris Orchard