Graduate Certificate of Professional Accounting

The Graduate Certificate of Professional Accounting at ACAP University College is a short postgraduate qualification for people who want accounting skills without committing to a full master's degree. It runs 33 weeks and is registered on CRICOS (course code 113893G) for international students. You'll study core accounting areas: financial accounting, management accounting, business law, economics, and corporate finance. The exact units and credit points are set by the college, so check the official course page for the current structure.

As a graduate certificate, this course sits at AQF level 8. It's a standalone qualification, but it's also a common pathway: if you complete it and want to keep going, you may be able to apply for credit towards a master's degree, subject to the receiving institution's rules. The course is delivered over 33 weeks, which typically means two study periods or trimesters. Assessment is usually a mix of exams, assignments, and case studies, with some group work.

You'll build practical skills: preparing financial statements, analysing costs, interpreting accounting standards, using accounting software, and explaining financial information to non-accountants. These are the skills employers ask for in assistant accountant, accounts officer, and bookkeeping roles. The course also gives you a taste of what professional accounting bodies expect, though it does not by itself lead to CPA or CAANZ membership. Check with the professional bodies about what further study you'd need.

This course suits career changers, people returning to study, and those who want a postgraduate qualification quickly. If you're an international student, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying, and after you finish you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. English requirements are IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall or equivalent. Confirm all details, including tuition, on the official CRICOS register and the college's page.

• Assistant Accountant
• Accounts Officer
• Bookkeeper
• Payroll Officer
• Accounts Receivable/Payable Clerk
• Financial Clerk
• Graduate Accountant (with further study)

These roles are found in accounting firms, small and medium businesses, government departments, not-for-profits, and shared service centres across Australia.