Bachelor of Business (Accounting)

The Bachelor of Business (Accounting) is a three-year degree for students who want to work as accountants in Australia. You'll study financial accounting, management accounting, auditing, taxation law, business law, economics, finance and information systems. These are the core technical areas every accounting graduate needs, and they're taught through lectures, tutorials, workshops and group projects. Expect to spend time working through real company reports, preparing financial statements, analysing tax scenarios and using accounting software. The degree sits at Level 7 on the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), which means it's a standard bachelor's qualification recognised across the country.

How the degree is structured

Australian bachelor degrees are made up of units of study, each worth a set number of credit points. You'll typically complete 24 units over three years, studying full-time. Most universities run two semesters a year, though some use trimesters. Each semester you'll enrol in four units, with exams and assessments at the end. The course usually includes a capstone unit in your final year where you bring together what you've learned to solve a complex accounting problem. Many programmes also offer a work-integrated learning unit, which could be an internship, a consulting project with a real business, or a placement in an accounting firm. This gives you a taste of the workplace before you graduate.

Skills you'll gain

You'll learn to prepare and analyse financial statements, apply Australian tax law, conduct audits, use accounting software like Xero or MYOB, and communicate financial information to non-accountants. You'll also build skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork and business ethics. These are the skills employers look for when hiring graduates into accounting roles.

Who this course suits

This degree suits school leavers with an interest in business and numbers, as well as mature-age students looking to change careers. If you enjoy working with detail, solving problems and helping organisations manage their finances, accounting could be a good fit. The course is also a pathway to further study, such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a professional accounting qualification. International students should note that while studying in Australia on a Student visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight. After graduating, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, which lets you stay and work in Australia. Always check the official CRICOS page and the university's website for the most current information on structure, English requirements and fees.

• Accountant – working in public practice, corporate accounting, or government.
• Auditor – examining financial records for accuracy and compliance.
• Tax Accountant – preparing tax returns and advising on tax planning.
• Management Accountant – analysing financial data to help managers make decisions.
• Financial Analyst – evaluating investment opportunities and financial performance.
• Bookkeeper – managing day-to-day financial transactions for small businesses.
• Payroll Officer – processing wages and ensuring compliance with awards.

Graduates find work in accounting firms, banks, government departments, not-for-profits, and private companies across Australia. Many go on to complete further study to become a Certified Practising Accountant (CPA) or Chartered Accountant (CA).