Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning
Degree Level Postgraduate
Year 2020
You're viewing degree information for International students
You’re considered an International student if you are a citizen of a country other than Australia or New Zealand.
Program Code
DGFP
Fees
2020: AUD$ 35,900 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL)
2021: AUD$ 37,700 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL)
English Language Requirements
- IELTS total [6.5]
- IELTS reading [6.0]
- IELTS writing [6.0]
International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements
CRICOS Code
098153F
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Entry requirements
Applicants are required to have one of the following:
A completed bachelor degree in an accounting, finance, economics or financial planning discipline from a recognised higher education institution or equivalent; or
A completed graduate certificate or higher postgraduate qualification in an accounting, finance, economics or financial planning discipline from a recognised higher education institution; or
A completed diploma or advanced diploma in financial planning and two years relevant professional experience.English language entry requirements
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 [6.5]
- IELTS reading [6.0]
- IELTS writing [6.0]
Degree overview
- Study one of the first Graduate Diplomas in Australia approved by the Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA).
- This qualification is best suited to existing financial advisers who need to study a FASEA-approved program to meet new education requirements, and professionals with a relevant degree seeking a career change.
- Upskill in areas such as investment management, regulatory and legal obligations, estate planning, risk management and insurance, superannuation, ethics and tax.
- Fast-track your studies by gaining credit for relevant previously completed courses and qualifications.
- Experience our state-of-the-art Iress Trading Room and learn with the same technology used by the world’s leading banks and investment firms.
- Benefit from exam preparation resources and workshops so you feel confident for your university and FASEA exams.
- Access invaluable mentorship, industry insights and expert advice from a senior business leader through our Executive Partners Program.
- Join a university ranked No.1 in South Australia for postgraduate teaching quality1. UniSA Business is in the top one per cent worldwide2 and has been awarded an overall five stars for excellence in the QS Stars Ratings 2019.
1ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2018-2019. Public SA-founded universities only. 2UniSA 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.
Snapshot
This program is approved by the Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA) and will equip you with the education requirements to practice as a qualified financial adviser.
We’ve worked closely with industry to develop our course content, and regularly consult with FASEA to ensure your Graduate Diploma meets the most up-to-date industry standards.
Our Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning is best suited to:
- existing financial advisers with a non-relevant degree; or
- existing financial advisers with no degree; or
- new entrants with a relevant degree.*
If you have a relevant degree, you may also be eligible to apply for credit, which means you could potentially finish your degree sooner, saving you both time and money.
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.
*Definitions:
- Existing financial adviser: Any person who was ‘current’ on the ASIC’s Financial Advisers Register, or who provided personal advice in a foreign country to retail clients in relation to relevant financial products at any time between 1 January 2016 and 1 January 2019 (and was not prohibited from providing advice on 1 January 2019).
- New entrant: Any person who does not meet the above definition of an existing adviser.
- Relevant degree: An AQF 7,8 or 9 qualification that contains at least 8 courses in one or more of the designated fields of study (and in any combination) – financial planning, accounting, taxation law, finance law, finance, business law, investments, estate law, banking, and economics.
- Non-relevant degree: An AQF 7,8 or 9 qualification in any other different field of study to the areas listed above.
- Approved degree: A degree that is listed in the Corporations (Relevant Providers Degrees, Qualifications and Courses Standard) Determination 2018 – a FASEA-approved AQF 7, 8 (Graduate Diploma) or 9 qualification.
What you'll learn
This program consists of eight advanced financial planning courses, which you can complete in one year of full-time study (or part-time equivalent). Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) based on FASEA requirements for existing advisers will be considered and can reduce the number of courses you must complete.
Your qualification will complement your industry experience and advance your knowledge in specialist areas such as investment management, estate planning, superannuation, and tax.
You can study compulsory bridging courses that have been outlined in FASEA’s education requirements including Ethics and Professionalism, Financial Advice Regulatory and Legal Obligations, and Behavioural Finance Client and Consumer Behaviour*. As a graduate, you can be confident you’ll leave with the essential education requirements to practice as a qualified financial adviser.
If you’re an experienced adviser, your Graduate Diploma is an opportunity to sharpen your technical ability, legal knowledge and professional expertise. Aside from learning new and relevant legislation, regulations and codes of practice, you’ll also enhance your skills in building and managing client relationships – a critical focus area for future financial advisers.
Throughout your studies, you’ll gain contemporary career planning strategies and techniques to boost your employability and achieve your career goals. You’ll also have opportunities to network and connect with leading industry bodies such as the Financial Planners Association (FPA) and the Association of Financial Advisers (AFA), as well as other industry professionals.
Note: Single courses are also available for existing financial advisers who only wish to complete one or more bridging courses to meet FASEA requirements.
*Behavioural Finance Client and Consumer Behaviour is only available to study online.
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
Course assessment will comprise a mix of assignments, presentations and examinations.
In addition to meeting new education standards, FASEA 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.
Research
UniSA Business is recognised and respected for a comprehensive research program inspired by the contemporary challenges facing Australia and its region. Our focus is always on finding practical solutions and creating new knowledge. In the Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning, our lecturers are leaders in their field. You could be learning from experts who are also researching areas such as applied finance, accounting, economics sustainability and choice.
Our commitment to research with an industry focus is unprecedented. In the 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) rankings, all of our research was assessed at or above world-class. Read more about our strengths in research.
Why Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning
As one of the leading providers of accounting and finance education in Australia, you can be confident you will graduate with the knowledge and skills required to succeed in the financial services sector.
You’ll learn from expert academics who are current practicing financial advisers themselves – including an award-winning academic who was named Financial Standard’s Power50 most influential financial advisers in Australia*. Your studies are enriched in so many ways as you’ll gain 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.
Your course content has been developed in conjunction with leading industry experts to ensure that what you learn is practical, relevant and current to today’s changing business landscape.
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.
*UniSA Financial Planning academic, Geoff Pacecca was awarded the Financial Standard’s Power50 most Influential Financial Advisers in Australia, 2019.
Responding to industry needs
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 FASEA-approved program by 2026 to continue practising. If you’re looking to enter the industry, you’ll now need to study a FASEA-approved program to start your career.
Recognition of prior learning (RPL)
Under FASEA guidelines, existing financial advisers can be granted a maximum of 4 courses credit in the Graduate Diploma, depending on their prior learning and pathway. More information on FASEA’s education pathways and RPL provisions are available in their Education Pathways Policy.
- Completion of the Advanced Diploma of Financial Services/Planning (ADFS/P) or equivalent approved by FASEA - up to 2 courses credit available.
- Completion of education undertaken in the process of attaining an approved professional designation - up to 2 courses credit available.
- Completion of an AQF 7, 8 or 9 qualification that contains between 4 and 7 units in one or more of the designated fields of study* - up to 2 courses credit available.
Completion of the Advanced Diploma and professional designation maps widely to content in our Superannuation G, Taxation, Risk Management and Insurance G, and Investment Management courses.
*financial planning, investments, accounting, tax law, finance law, finance, business or commercial law, estate law, banking and economics.
Examination support
As part of your studies, you’ll have the opportunity to access exam preparation resources or workshops so you feel confident and prepared for your university and FASEA exams. We’ll provide you with useful strategies, tips and support – all the information you need to succeed.
An enriching student experience
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 leadership skill development. You can also explore accelerated learning pathways and seek program support from our Business Student Hub.
Study Financial Planning at UniSA
Hear from Geoff Pacecca, Founder and Principal Adviser of GAP Financial and UniSA Financial Planning lecturer, about our suite of programs and the benefits of furthering your unstoppable career at UniSA.
Your career
In addition to new education standards, FASEA 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.
As the No.1 university in South Australia for Postgraduate Teaching Quality1, our quality teaching and learning experiences will ensure you graduate ready to succeed.
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.
If you’re an existing financial adviser, your qualification opens up many more opportunities in your business and career.
If you’re looking to make a career change, there are a range of roles you could pursue in diverse businesses. There are opportunities in financial institutions, investment banks, superannuation and insurance funds, financial advisory firms – or you could choose to be self-employed and set up your own practice. Financial advisers can also specialise in a number of areas, such as tax planning, risk management or retirement planning.
Careers to consider include:
- Client relationship manager: proactively engage clients by providing high value, holistic and strategic financial advice; identify opportunities to build new client relationships and strengthen existing ones; research the latest products and regulations; and focus on delivering a high-quality customer experience.
- Estate planner: provide clients with legal, financial and accounting advice to ensure long term financial protection of their estate during life and post-mortem; help ensure any assets are dispersed according to the wishes of the deceased in an effective way; and develop estate plans which may include preparing wills, life insurance, family trusts and manage tax implications for beneficiaries.
- Insurance broker: research and review available finance and insurance products to meet client requirements; arrange 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; prepare reports for underwriters and liaise with other insurance professionals.
- Investment adviser or manager: develop financial plans and investment strategies for individuals and organisations; monitor investment performance and review investment plans based on needs and changes in the market; buy and sell stocks and bonds for clients; and provide advice on tax implications, securities, insurance cover, pension plans and real estate.
- Qualified financial adviser or financial planner: help clients to meet short-term and long-term financial goals; assist with legal and financial documents, financial laws and regulatory requirements; provide advice on personal investments and security planning, estate planning, tax planning, employee benefits planning and insurance planning; and deliver a high-quality customer experience.
- Superannuation consultant: provide compliant financial advice in areas such as personal and business superannuation, retirement income stream products, pensions rollovers and annuities; interpret 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: deliver holistic wealth management strategies and plans to help clients grow and sustain long-term financial goals; provide 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 possess knowledge of software solutions and key platforms in the industry.
1ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2018-2019. Public SA-founded universities only.
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.
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 25% reduction on tuition fees for their first year of study for selected degrees.
Your study experience and support
As a student at the University of South Australia you will have unique access to networking events, guest speakers and more.
Our campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and areas 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. 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 has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation or private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages for plenty of options. If you need somewhere to live, our new student accommodation by urbanest is on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, a 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 convenient, central support service for business students, from first year through to graduation. The team provides expert advice on study options, elective choices and any academic difficulties. It also helps 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.
International Student Services will make your life at university easier. We want you to be successful, and if you need help we will be there to assist. Support services include:
- careers advice
- help with student visas and health cover
- personal counselling
- academic counselling
- fees and finance help
- common rooms
- prayer rooms
- security officers
- services offered through our student association, USASA
- accommodation services
We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers. You can work with them face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies. They 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 enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and any other questions you might have.
24/7 digital environment
This degree is offered online. 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 some on-campus attendance (such as to attend seminars, workshops or examinations) and/or placements may apply. Any requirements like this are detailed on individual course pages.
Your program director
I am a Senior Lecturer in Finance, and my research is in the area of stock valuation and investment. Before academia, I worked in Finance and Management consulting for several years. I am an engineer by trade and hold an MBA, a MSc in Finance and Investment from Durham University and a PhD in Finance from the University of Sydney. Our programs are industry-informed and designed with the employability of our graduates in mind. Therefore, students will be engaged in industry-driven issues and apply theories to real world applications in the courses, while enhancing their soft skills. That’s why our graduates are sought after by top employers in Finance and Property industries.
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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 have over 25 years of experience in the financial services industry, including ten years working in Sydney as a Financial Services Executive. I was honoured to be awarded the Financial Standard’s Power50 most influential financial advisers in Australia for 2018 and 2019. I am currently a Principal Adviser and founder of GAP Financial. My role at UniSA allows me to bring my industry experience to develop course content that is relevant and practical for current and aspiring financial planners. Students will learn best-practice processes and client strategies using real-world case studies taken from the industry.”
Geoffrey Pacecca
Employment: Founder, GAP Financial & UniSA Financial Planning lecturer
Having a FASEA-approved qualification is now imperative to a successful career as a financial adviser. The new FASEA requirements will effectively reshape Australia’s network of financial advisers. Financial planners who are able to adapt to change, continually learn new things, possess good communication skills, and demonstrate flexibility and resilience will be the most successful in their career.
Louise Trevaskis
Employment: AMP Financial Services
Role: Academy and Education Manager
“My UniSA degree parchment hangs proudly in my office along with my Advanced Diploma of Financial Services and Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) certificates. Clients express satisfaction in knowing that they are dealing with someone who has passed the academic requirements to hold the industry’s highest qualifications and be at the forefront of technical knowledge and skills. In an ever-changing environment, continual learning represents commitment to being the best I can be for myself, my business and my clients.”
Mark Bastiaans
Employment: Principal Financial Adviser, Advice SA & UniSA Financial Planning lecturer
