Auckland University of Technology

What you'll study

The programme combines core accounting and finance topics with professional practice and applied research. Typical modules cover advanced financial accounting and reporting, management accounting and decision making, auditing and assurance, and taxation in a New Zealand context. You will also study accounting information systems, corporate governance and ethics, and quantitative and qualitative research methods tailored to accounting practice.

Learning is delivered through a mix of lectures, tutorials, case studies and simulated professional tasks. Most students complete a capstone project or professional portfolio that integrates technical knowledge with applied problem‑solving for industry clients or regulatory scenarios.

• Advanced Financial Reporting and Interpretation
• Management Accounting and Performance Measurement
• Auditing and Assurance Services
• Taxation for Business (including New Zealand tax principles)
• Accounting Information Systems and Data Analysis
• Corporate Governance, Ethics and Professional Standards
• Research Methods and Applied Project or Professional Portfolio

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a recognised bachelor’s degree or equivalent; graduates from any discipline are considered. Those without an accounting background may need to complete introductory bridging courses or demonstrate prior learning in quantitative subjects. Applicants with substantial professional experience in finance or accounting can also be considered.

International applicants must demonstrate English language competence through an approved test or recognised prior study in English. All offers are conditional on submission of official academic transcripts and any documents required to demonstrate eligibility.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for careers in public practice, corporate finance departments, government agencies and not‑for‑profit organisations. Common roles include professional accountant, management accountant, tax adviser, auditor, financial analyst and internal or forensic accountant. The programme also provides the technical knowledge necessary to pursue professional accreditation and pathways to bodies such as Chartered Accountants and Certified Practising Accountant organisations, subject to the professional body’s requirements for additional assessments or practical experience.

Many students use the degree to transition into accounting from other professions, to accelerate promotion within finance teams, or to move into specialist advisory and consultancy roles.

Why study at Auckland University of Technology

AUT Business School has strong links with the accounting profession and employers in New Zealand’s largest city, offering applied learning opportunities, industry guest speakers and internship pathways. Teaching is focused on practical skills and contemporary technical standards relevant to New Zealand and international accounting environments.

Students benefit from an urban campus with access to career services, a professional networks hub and research active academics who combine scholarly rigour with practitioner experience. The programme is designed to equip graduates with the professional capabilities and ethical foundation sought by employers and professional bodies.