University of Adelaide

What you'll study

The program is structured around core commerce foundations plus a Banking and Finance major. Core subjects develop quantitative and business fundamentals such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, financial accounting, business law, statistics and quantitative methods. The Banking and Finance major focuses on how financial institutions operate, the instruments and markets they use, and the management of financial risk.

• Core commerce topics: introductory micro- and macroeconomics, accounting fundamentals, business law, statistics and econometrics, corporate finance principles.
• Banking and Finance major topics: financial institutions and markets, commercial banking operations, credit analysis and loan management, treasury and liquidity management, investment analysis, fixed income and derivatives, risk management and compliance, international finance.
• Quantitative and technical skills: financial modelling, applied econometrics, spreadsheet and database tools, introductory programming or fintech applications as electives.
• Capstone and experiential learning: a major capstone or industry project synthesising technical and strategic knowledge; opportunities for internships or industry placements with banks, regulators and financial firms.
• Electives and flexibility: options to take electives in related areas such as corporate governance, sustainability finance, investment banking, behavioural finance or study abroad units through partner institutions.

Entry requirements

Admission is based on successful completion of secondary education or an equivalent qualification, with selection typically using the university's entry rank or a specialist admissions pathway for mature-age applicants. Applicants are expected to demonstrate strength in quantitative subjects; prior study in mathematics (mathematical methods, statistics or equivalent) is strongly recommended.

• Domestic applicants: entry is competitive and generally requires a strong secondary school result or a recognised alternative such as a foundation or pathway program. Mature-age applicants may apply with work experience and other tertiary study.
• International applicants: must hold an equivalent secondary qualification and meet English language proficiency requirements (accepted tests and scores apply). Prior study in mathematics or economics is advantageous.
• Other pathways: recognised diplomas, articulation agreements and bridging programs can provide an alternative route into the degree.

Career prospects

Graduates develop the technical, regulatory and commercial knowledge sought by employers across the financial services sector. The degree prepares students for roles in banking, finance and adjacent industries.

• Commercial and retail banking roles such as credit analyst, branch operations, relationship manager and lending officer.
• Corporate finance and treasury positions including financial analyst, corporate treasurer support and cash management.
• Risk, compliance and regulatory roles such as risk analyst, compliance officer or credit risk specialist.
• Investment and wealth management careers including portfolio analyst, investment operations or financial planning support (further professional accreditation may be required for advisory roles).
• Careers in fintech, payments, trade finance, and roles with regulators, policy bodies and consulting firms serving financial institutions.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers its commerce programs through an established business school with strong links to South Australia’s financial sector. Students benefit from research-informed teaching, access to industry guest speakers and networking opportunities with banks and finance firms in Adelaide and nationally.

• Industry connections: engagement with local banks, regulatory bodies and corporate partners that support internships, projects and graduate recruitment.
• Learning environment: a curriculum combining quantitative skills, real-world casework and an emphasis on ethical and regulatory aspects of financial services.
• Development opportunities: options for practical placements, student finance clubs and competitions, and exchange programs that broaden international finance perspectives.