Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This postgraduate diploma delivers core accounting and business knowledge through subject areas such as financial accounting, management accounting, taxation, auditing and assurance, corporate and business law for accountants, and accounting information systems. The curriculum balances technical skills (financial reporting, budgeting and taxation compliance) with professional competencies (ethical decision‑making, communication, and use of accounting software and data analytics).

Subjects are taught through a mix of lectures, case studies, practical workshops and assessments that reflect real workplace tasks. The program is designed to be completed full‑time in a compact period or part‑time for working students, with options for on‑campus and blended delivery depending on campus.

Entry requirements

• A recognised undergraduate degree (in any discipline) or equivalent professional qualification is normally required. Applicants without a degree but with substantial relevant work experience may be considered on a case‑by‑case basis.
• Applicants are expected to supply academic transcripts and a statement of purpose; some campuses/programmes may request a CV or references.
• Demonstrated proficiency in English is required; this can typically be shown through prior tertiary study in English or an accepted English language test result.
• Depending on your prior study, you may be advised to undertake introductory or bridging units if you have little or no accounting background before progressing to the full diploma subjects.

Career prospects

Graduates move into roles such as accountant, management accountant, tax officer or adviser, external/internal auditor, financial analyst, and financial or business adviser across private practice, industry, government and not‑for‑profit sectors. The programme is structured to align with the academic requirements of major Australian professional accounting bodies, which helps graduates pursue professional accreditation when combined with the bodies' practical experience requirements.

Many students use the Graduate Diploma as a stepping stone to further study, for example enrolling in a master’s-level accounting or finance qualification, or to meet prerequisites for professional programs (such as CPA or chartered accounting pathways).

Why study at Australian Catholic University

• ACU emphasises practical, ethical and socially responsible approaches to business and accounting practice, reflecting the university’s focus on professional formation and community engagement.
• The programme is taught by staff with academic and industry experience, offering applied learning, casework and access to contemporary accounting tools and software.
• Students benefit from ACU’s student support services, smaller class sizes for personalised feedback, and connections to industry through guest lectures and networking events.
• Delivery options across multiple campuses and flexible study modes make it accessible to a broad range of students, including those balancing work with study.