Start date
February
July

Duration
3 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus/Online

Program Code
DBRF

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
097499K

Degree overview

  • 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 excellence1.
  • Study a curriculum informed by above world-class research in Business2.
  • Study at a university ranked No. 1 in South Australia3 and Top 15 in Australia for Business and Economics4.
  • UniSA Business is accredited by both AACSB International and EFMD (EQUIS) – the world’s leading accreditation bodies.
  • Study one of the first FASEA approved bachelor degrees in Australia5.
  • Meet the education requirements to practise as a qualified and accredited financial adviser.
  • Explore how to prepare detailed financial plans which meet legal and regulatory requirements, and develop skills in personal budgeting, superannuation and retirement planning, financial risk management and estate planning.
  • Gain practical skills with software commonly used in the financial planning industry and access our state-of-the-art Iress Trading Room on campus, which features the same technology used by the world’s leading banks and investment firms.
  • 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.
  • Gain real-world experience as part of your studies through an internship, student exchange or mentorship opportunity.
  • Develop career-ready skills employers are looking for once you graduate with enterprise skills embedded in all business courses within this program.
  • Benefit from exam preparation resources and workshops so you feel confident for your exams.

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. 22018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA). 32024 THE Subject Rankings. 42023 THE Subject Rankings. 5The degree is a Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA) approved program. The 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.

Snapshot

Business_Hub_images-38 copy.jpg

This program is a FASEA approved degree by the Financial Adviser Standards and Conduct Unit (FASCU), The Treasury1 and 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.

What is a financial adviser?
Financial advisers assist clients to build and manage their personal wealth, tax, financial risk and spending over their lifetimes. They consider a number of factors such as current wealth, income and lifestyle aspirations, and develop plans so their clients can reach short and long-term financial goals.

With a strong practical focus and access to state-of-the-art technology, you will further your skills in preparing detailed financial plans and documentation which meet legal and regulatory requirements. 

1The degree is a Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA) approved program. The 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.

What you'll learn

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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; superannuation; insurance; personal finance; relevant legislations, 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 Treasury's 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 recognised a FASEA approved program1 which means it provides you with the essential education requirements to practise as a qualified financial adviser after graduation.

1The degree is a Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA) approved program. The 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.

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)
Accounting for Business ACCT 1008 4.5 Note(s): 3
Quantitative Methods for Business MATH 1053 4.5 Note(s): 3
Principles of Economics ECON 1008 4.5 Note(s): 3
Personal Finance BANK 1002 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Business Law LAWS 1018 4.5
Career Development in Business BUSS 1060 4.5 Note(s): 3
Business and Society BUSS 1057 4.5 Note(s): 3
OR
International Study Tour 4.5 Note(s): 2
OR
Elective 4.5 Note(s): 1
Financial Markets and Institutions BANK 1005 4.5
SECOND YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Marketing Principles: Trading and Exchange MARK 1010 4.5 Note(s): 3
Entrepreneurship for Social and Market Impact BUSS 2085 4.5 Note(s): 3
Introduction to Financial Planning BANK 2008 4.5
Macroeconomics ECON 1007 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Companies and Partnership Law COML 2005 4.5
Business Intelligence INFS 2036 4.5
Ethics and Financial Advice BANK 2012 4.5
Management and Organisation BUSS 2068 4.5 Note(s): 3
THIRD YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Portfolio and Fund Management BANK 3004 4.5
Taxation Law 1 ACCT 3002 4.5
Superannuation BANK 3014 4.5
Elective 4.5 Note(s): 1
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Risk Management and Insurance BANK 3013 4.5
Estate Planning BANK 3012 4.5
Applied Financial Planning BANK 3005 4.5
Strategic Financial Analysis BUSS 3083 4.5
OR
Strategic Management BUSS 3023 4.5

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 and 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

Marketing_Clinic-15 copy_1.jpgYour studies at UniSA will incorporate both practical, professional 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
  • contributions to the workplace and classroom.

In addition to meeting new education standards, Treasury has also outlined new professional requirements. This includes completing a professional year (for new entrants only), passing a national exam, undertaking Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and completing a code of ethics course.

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 Business (Financial Planning)

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This degree FASEA approved degree will provide you with the knowledge and skills required to practise as a financial adviser and succeed in the financial services sector1.

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.

You can participate in an investigative study tour learning about business practices, financial sectors as well as political and cultural influences in other regions.

The financial services profession has recently introduced new education standards, making it more important than ever for practising and aspiring financial advisers to hold a recognised qualification. If you’re currently working in financial planning, you’ll need to complete a Treasury-approved program by 2026 to continue practising. If you’re looking to enter the industry, you’ll now need to study a Treasury-approved program to start your career.

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.

1The degree is a Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA) approved program. The 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.

Fast-track to Masters

Want to gain a postgraduate degree with just one extra year of study? You can package the Bachelor of Business with a Master of Management and graduate with two qualifications in four years with our Fast-track to Masters package. 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. 

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.

UniSA Video

Career outcomes

Your career

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

The financial services industry is one of the leading sectors in the Australian economy and plays a key role in facilitating the productive flow of funds between industries, companies and people.

There are a range of roles you could pursue in diverse businesses. There are opportunities in financial institutions, investment banks, superannuation and insurance funds, and financial advisory firms – or you can choose to be self-employed and set up your own practice. Financial advisers can also specialise in several areas, such as tax planning, risk management or retirement planning.

Careers to consider:

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Qualified 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 social security planning, estate planning, tax planning, employee benefits planning and insurance planning; and delivering a high-quality customer experience.
  • 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.

In addition to new education standards, Treasury has outlined new professional requirements. This includes completing a professional year (for new entrants only), passing a national exam, undertaking Continuing Professional Development (CPD), and completing a code of ethics course.

Professional accreditation and recognition

This program is a Financial Adviser Standards, The Treasury approved program.

Industry facts

column-chart-growth

Between now and 2023, the ABS projects the number of professional finance roles in Australia will increase.

Australian Bureau of Statistics, Catalogue 8165.0 – Counts of Australian businesses, including entries and exits, June 2015 to June 2019.

handshake-business-team

The main topic areas of financial advice clients seek advice on are superannuation and investment advice, loans and investment advice, self-managed superannuation fund advice, and tax advice.

Financial Services Royal Commission, Some Features of the Australian Financial Planning Industry, 2018.

money-trees

Australia’s financial services sector is the largest contributor to the nation's economic growth.

Financial Services Council. State of the Art 2019

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 offers a range of other services.

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.

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

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.

Mr Ron McIver

Program Director

Enquire
Portrait image for Mr Ron McIver
Portrait image for Mr Ron McIver

Mr Ron McIver

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

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